Iceberg markets have reversed course and are surging aggressively higher as disease pressure tightens supply. Romaine and romaine heart prices have been on the rise over the past two weeks and are expected to continue rising. Markon First Crop (MFC) Green Leaf, Iceberg, and Romaine Lettuces are available in Salinas, California; Markon Best Available (MBA) is being substituted as needed.
Iceberg:
- Salinas and Santa Maria, California
- Supplies are tightening rapidly, with disease pressure and supply gaps sharply squeezing available stocks
- Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV) and Sclerotinia are damaging current lots and reducing harvestable acreage
- Additional challenges include internal burn and mildew pressure, further impacting supply levels
- Overall quality ranges from fair to good
- Mexico
- Iceberg harvests are tapering off as the region enters its low-volume summer period
- Monsoon season is June through September; this weather typically reduces quality and yields
- Midwest/Michigan
- Harvest will start ramping up in early June and will wind down by the end of September
Romaine and Romaine Hearts:
- Salinas and Santa Maria, California
- Markets have increased significantly due to very limited availability caused by disease pressure and supply gaps
- Expect elevated prices through mid-June
- Regions in the Northeastern U.S. and Canada will begin production in mid-June
Expect extremely elevated prices until mid-June, at least.
Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.
©2026 Markon Cooperative, Inc. All rights reserved.