California strawberry season hits peak supplies and quality

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this California strawberry update June 18, 2026:

It’s peak California strawberry season. Supplies are ample, quality is excellent, and size is consistent due to ideal growing conditions. Expect weak prices.

Salinas/Watsonville

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Size is large; counts average 12 to 14 berries per 1-pound clamshell
• Quality is good; occasional issues include bruising and white shoulders

Santa Maria

• Overall quality is good; some bruising and white shoulders have been reported
• Size ranges from small-medium to medium, averaging 18 to 22 berries per 1-pound clamshell
• Maintaining the cold chain is vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
• The majority of strawberries are going to the frozen market due to the abundance of supplies

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.