Crop assessments continue across the numerous local growing regions following Tropical Storm Debby last week. Many crops (beans, cucumbers, leafy greens, peppers, tomatoes, squash) have been impacted by this system throughout numerous states and growing regions. 

Given the vast growing regions, crop assessments are ongoing; however, we expect to see light yields and lingering quality problems as growers harvest upcoming acreage. Fall crops have already been planted in the Southeast region and are set to begin production next month.

Out west growers are seeing the results of the extreme heat throughout Central California this summer. In the San Joaquin Valley these temperatures have caused extensive bloom drops in the melon, tomato and Bell pepper fields impacting current yields. Stone fruit and grape production have also seen lower yields and quality due to these temperatures. The long-term effects of this will likely continue to show up into fall harvests with lower yields and overall smaller sizing in the crops.

In the Salinas Valley cooler temperatures in August, closer to seasonal norms, look to continue into next week helping overall quality in the region. Insect pressure continues to rise and remains problematic throughout the valley with increased reports of flies, aphids and larval worms in the fields. We have also seen an uptick in other pests, reptiles, birds and especially rodents being reported in the fields. This looks to continue this summer as production rolls on.

Cool temperatures and rain in Central Mexico have improved yields and quality in the region as the seed varieties being used are designed for the rainy season during the summer and fall. Green onion supplies from the Mexicali region of northern Mexico have been impacted by strong winds and thunderstorms impacting yields and quality for the next week or so.

As always upcoming weather patterns will play a crucial role in supplies and quality from the various growing regions across the U.S. and Mexico as we move toward fall production.

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.