Markon inspectors and growers assessed the impact of the recent rainfall across California’s Central Coast strawberry-growing regions today, and unfortunately, conditions are more challenging than anticipated. Most strawberries with color, including fruit that would have been ready for harvest this Sunday and Monday, have been damaged.

Orders to be packed and shipped on Monday, October 26, will be extremely limited. California growers may only cover approximately 50% of demand; all harvested fruit is expected to have a limited shelf life.

Mexico’s strawberry season has begun, but volume is low. Full production is not expected until late November or early December. Markon is moving member orders to Mexico for the next two weeks, as current supplies allow.

California growers began stripping damaged fruit today and will continue next week.

• Strawberry availability will remain extremely low throughout next week
• Shortages, delays, and harvest cancellations are expected
• Markets will remain active, as demand will far exceed available supplies
• The long-term weather forecast indicates another storm may move into California’s Central Coast late next week

Markon will continue working closely with our California and Mexico growers to secure as much high-quality product as possible and minimize disruptions for our members.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for additional information.

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