Market Minute: Transitioning from summer to fall produce harvest

It’s hard to believe that the summer season is slowly slipping out on us for 2024. I hate the thought of the upcoming cold, snowy winter months ahead. But first the transition from summer to autumn arrives on Sunday, Sept. 22, and with it will also come the fresh aroma of fall apples and pumpkins in the air.

This is usually the time some older crops are winding down and finishing up. With that will come a few temporary item gaps before the transition to the new fall/winter desert crops. There is still a supply of product, but specific crops are a bit lighter as the season reaches into autumn. It’s always best to keep close communication with your suppliers for further information.

In the meantime, asparagus is available from southern Peru. The lettuce and green pepper market is good for promotion. There is a normal supply of all tomatoes. Mexican avocados are in good supply with an abundant volume of smaller sizes for attractive promotion. California grapes are in good supply. California strawberries should be in good supply for ad features throughout September. Idaho russet potatoes are readily available for some great promotions.

Fall merchandising
Start to set up some nice autumn display themes and include all the items from pumpkins to gourds. Some local farms and even produce distributors may be able to supply you with corn stalks. For more excitement, set up fall displays in front of the store or in a section of the parking lot. Add bins of apples, pears, pumpkins and other fall items to the mix. Don't forget the apple cider on ice.

Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775/843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].