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.
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