Abnormally cool weather is starting to impact daily yields in the Oxnard and Santa Maria, California growing regions. Supplies are becoming more plentiful in Florida, as temperatures are rising. Mexican stocks (into South Texas) are tightening; the region is experiencing heat-related quality issues.

Oxnard, California

• Yields have decreased due to freezing overnight temperatures; some areas are reporting as low as 31 degrees
• Fields are running wind machines to help avoid freeze damage; bloom and flower damage have been reported
• Quality is good; coloring is at 95-100 percent
• Size is currently medium (12 to 14 pieces per one-pound clamshell)
• Expect lower-than-anticipated yields due to freezing temperatures

Santa Maria, California

• Minimal harvesting is expected to take place this week
• Crews did experience early morning frost, delaying harvests
• Size ranges from small to medium (18 to 22 pieces per one-pound clamshell)
• Expect lower-than-anticipated yields due to freezing temperatures

Central Mexico (Loading in South Texas)

• Expect to see yields decline due to heat-related quality issues
• Quality is average; soft fruit and bruising have been reported
• Size currently ranges from small to medium (18 to 20 berries per one-pound clamshell)
• Expect tight supplies and steady markets

Florida

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Expect to see yields increase daily as the season approaches its peak
• Quality is fair
  • White shoulders are being reported
  • Expect small- to medium-size fruit

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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