Pepper market is uneasy with bad weather in the East and transition in the West

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this bell pepper updated June 26, 2026:

East Coast production is down due to recent heavy rains in Georgia and drought conditions in North Carolina. California red bells are transitioning from the desert region to the San Joaquin Valley. Markon First Crop (MFC) and Markon Essentials (ESS) Green and Red Bell Peppers are available.

Green Bells

• Growers are harvesting moderate supplies in California’s San Joaquin Valley, specifically the Bakersfield region
• Quality is very good
• The Fresno area is expected to get underway in early July
• Volume is low in Central Mexico (into South Texas)
• Production continues in South Georgia, but most stocks are off-grade
• The North Carolina season has started; yields are lower than expected due to drought conditions and high temperatures
• Expect high prices over the next few weeks due to tighter East Coast supplies and stronger overall demand

Red Bells

• California desert production is slowing down; growers will transition to the Bakersfield region over the next week
• Desert region temperatures are forecast to reach 110 degrees this week
• Crews are harvesting early; most supplies are choice grade
• Due to optimal weather conditions, the Bakersfield season has started in a limited manner; large-sized No. 1 peppers dominate availability
• Stocks are limited on the East Coast
• Canadian greenhouse volume has fallen due to cooler weather
• Expect steady prices over the next week

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.