PRO*ACT Crop Update: Cool, wet weather slowing growth in Salinas Valley

The cooler temperatures along with a heavy marine layer and drizzle look to continue in the Salinas Valley as we move through May. The cooler temperatures continue to slow down growth rates while increasing mold, mildew and disease pressure in these stands. Some acreage in the valley is showing disease pressure impacting yields as growers disk some affected fields.

We have seen an uptick in pest activity in the fields recently, especially insect activity. Aphids, gnats and other small insects are being reported in some leafy green fields. Growers utilize integrated pest management techniques to help control insects. When insect control is used there is a lag time between when the control is actively eliminating insects to when it has degraded and no longer present. This is when the crop can be harvested. Unfortunately, this lag time allows insects still present in the area to reenter the crop prior to harvest.

Insect pressure is generally more prevalent in field-packed products. Field-packed products are cut in the field and placed directly into a carton, brought to the facility for cooling and then shipped to customers. These fields are susceptible to wind, rain and insect pressure among other environmental factors during the growing season. Insects, dirt or dust and other field debris can accumulate in the product and may not be seen by the harvesting crew. There is no washing step involved and it is highly recommended that the customer wash the product before consuming.

With over 30 years in the produce industry, Tim Lynch started as an inspector and advanced into quality control and food safety. Beyond work, he's an avid sports fan, relishing in activities like boating, fishing, and diving. Originally from Hollywood, California, Tim attended Cal Poly SLO before making Marina his home since 1994.