Tight California strawberry supplies should improve in May

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this California strawberry update April 23, 2026:

The strawberry market is currently in a demand-exceeds-supply position following recent rainfall in the Salinas and Watsonville growing regions.

As a result, markets are elevated; however, a shift to clear weather over the next ten days should increase volume and improve quality across all regions.

Santa Maria/Oxnard

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Overall quality is good; some bruising and white shoulders have been reported
• Size ranges from small-medium to medium (23 to 26 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell)
• Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
• Prices will remain elevated for the next 7-10 days

Salinas/Watsonville

• Plants are being stripped of fruit after prior rains, significantly reducing harvestable berry counts per plant this week
• Overall quality is average; some defects will include decay, pin rot, and water damage
• Size currently ranges from small to medium (22 to 27 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell)
• Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
• Expect high markets for the next 7-10 days

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.