Rain is forecast for the Santa Maria and Oxnard, California regions on Tuesday, September 23. Growers will pack ahead of the rain to ensure better quality. Tight stocks and strong markets are expected through next week.
In Santa Maria and Oxnard, Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available. Current quality concerns include decay, pin-rot, and water damage. Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life, and Markon recommends ordering for quick turns. Berry size is small to medium, ranging from 18 to 24 per one-pound clamshell. Elevated markets are forecast for the next 7 to 10 days.
In Salinas and Watsonville, MFC Strawberries are available with good overall quality and color. Sizes range from 16 to 25 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell. Some bruising, white shoulders, and light mildew are being reported. As with other regions, maintaining the cold chain will be important for shelf-life, and Markon recommends ordering for quick turns. Elevated markets are also forecast for the next 7 to 10 days.
In Mexico and South Texas, new crop harvesting is expected to begin in mid-November, with product crossing into South Texas.
Source: BlueBook
