August 20, 2026
Iceberg markets are expected to climb sharply over the next several days as disease pressure, insect activity, and lower yields tighten supplies. Demand is also rebounding, creating rapid upward pricing momentum that is expected to accelerate into next week. Romaine markets are expected to rise in the coming days due to tightening supplies and increasing demand.
Markon First Crop (MFC) Green Leaf, Iceberg, and Romaine Lettuces are available in Salinas, California; Markon Best Available (MBA) is being substituted as necessary.
Salinas/Santa Maria, California
- Iceberg markets are expected to increase aggressively heading into next week as disease and insect pressure worsen
- Demand is rebounding, adding momentum to what is already a rapidly escalating iceberg market
- Romaine and leaf markets are expected to follow with sharply higher pricing anticipated
- Disease challenges, including Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and Sclerotinia, are becoming more widespread and cutting into yields
- Quality ranges from fair to good; increased pest pressure, internal burn, mildew, and seeder are being reported in many lots
- Markon QA inspectors continue to work closely with grower-shipper partners to secure the best available product
Colorado
- Iceberg harvests are ongoing and are expected to continue through mid-September, weather permitting
- Warm temperatures may accelerate crop development in some fields
- Quality is good, with minimal reports of internal burn or mildew; weights remain overall lighter compared to California product
Michigan
- Harvests of green leaf, iceberg, and romaine will continue through September
- Supplies are steady
- Quality remains favorable despite some minor rainfall
Northeastern Canada and USA
- Harvests of all lettuces are ongoing
- Recent heat and rain have limited production and impacted some quality
- Supplies are expected to rebound next week
Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.
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