The Romaine lettuce season in the desert regions is in its final weeks as producers prepare for the transition northward. It hasn't been the smoothest of seasons for Yuma or the Imperial Valley for any commodities due to generally cool conditions with rain also appearing at times. Quality is mixed as the last of the Romaine comes off.
"The desert region will continue for another two to three weeks until Romaine production transitions into the Central Coast of California before beginning in Salinas for the summer," said Doug Classen of The Nunes Company. "There have been a few incidents of epidural peel and blister because of the cooler weather and it will still be evident because of this late burst of cold weather. However, we will be finishing up in two to three weeks anyway so less product from this region will be in the market."
Possible gaps as Salinas starts
The rain and cooler weather has not really hampered supplies except for some disturbances during the harvest. However, growers do note that coming into Salinas, some gaps may appear down the track due to disruption of planting from the heavy rains earlier in the year.
"Overall supplies have been moderate," Classen noted. "There has been some weather in the desert regions, but it hasn't really created any gaps in supply. Salinas however has experienced a lot of rain in the past few months, and some areas have had planting gaps."
Lower demand leading to softer market
The general slowdown in production has not translated into a stronger market. Weaker than normal demand has kept prices soft although it's unknown how the market will react once Salinas starts and warmer weather spreads throughout the United States.
"The market is okay, perhaps a little lower than normal due to weaker demand," Classen observed. "The range on the open market has been between $9 and $12 for a carton of Romaine lettuce, with Romaine hearts between $10 - $14."
For more information:
Doug Classen
The Nunes Company
Ph: +1 (831) 751-7500
dclassen@foxyproduce.com
www.foxy.com