The pepper market is moderately better than it was in the 2013 season, but still experiencing less demand than what growers prefer. “The pepper category continues to grow,” states George Gilvesy general manager of Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers. “Ontario has 819 acres of coloured peppers which represent 34% of greenhouse crops within the province”. Greenhouse red, yellow and orange peppers are grown in Ontario along with other greenhouse regions of Canada, such as British Columbia and a newly started production in Québec. “Internationally we compete with product from Mexico, the Netherlands and Spain,” explains Gilvesy. “Ontario exports about 70% of our produce, including peppers which are mainly shipped to the United States.”
Despite greenhouse pepper markets showing moderate improvement throughout 2014, the last two months have been fairly sluggish with limited demand. “We have a long season which runs from December to March,” explains Gilvesy, “The vines continuously grow and produce peppers.”
Ontario greenhouse peppers are able to distinguish themselves in a worldwide market through their quality, size and flavour. The harsh winter Ontario experienced in 2013 has only helped grow premium peppers. “The winter has kept the lakes cooler than usual contributing to a very moderate summer,” reflects Gilvesy, “The crop maintained a high level of standard.”
For more information:
George Gilvesy
Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers
Tel: 519-326-2604
Fax: 519-326-7842
[email protected]
www.ontariogreenhouse.com