California rain could tighten strawberry supplies, raise prices

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this strawberry market report September 22, 2025:

Rain is forecast for the Santa Maria and Oxnard, California regions on Tuesday, September 23. Growers will pack ahead of the rain to ensure better quality. Expect tight stocks and strong markets through next week.

Santa Maria/Oxnard

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Quality concerns include decay, pin-rot, and water damage
• Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
• Size is small-medium (18 to 24 per one-pound clamshell)
• Elevated markets are forecast for the next 7-10 days

Salinas/Watsonville

• MFC Strawberries are available; quality and color are good
• Size is currently 16 to 25 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell
• Some bruising, white shoulders, and light mildew are being reported
• Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
• Elevated markets are forecast for the next 7-10 days

Mexico/South Texas

• New crop harvesting is expected to start in mid-November
• Product will cross into South Texas

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.