Ice hits desert lettuce again

February 24, 2022 — Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 reports the Arizona/California desert growing region is experiencing temperatures in the upper 20°s to mid-30°s this morning, causing widespread lettuce ice to form on lettuce and desert row crop items.

Harvesting crews are currently delayed up to 4 hours waiting until plants have fully thawed. Value-added processing and loading delays can also be expected. More lettuce ice is forecast through Saturday, Feb 26.

This latest round of ice will cause another wave of freeze-related defects that may carry through to the tail end of the season, which ends in late March to mid-April.

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Markon inspectors will be monitoring quality and supply outlook closely and will update as needed.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.