PRO*ACT Crop Update: Salinas Valley heat wave leads to short-term issues
By
Tim Lynch
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Salinas Valley heat wave leads to short-term issues
Last week's brief heat wave brought the warmest temperatures of the year to the Salinas Valley. Most crops have come through in decent shape from the short-lived hot spell. Texture and overall shelf life will likely be impacted for the short term, especially in the tender spinach, spring mix and baby leaf items.
Growers continue to battle mold, mildew and soil disease in the stands as we move into summer harvests.
While overall quality remains generally good the warmer weather has been conducive for insect populations to thrive. Aphids, thrips, small flies and gnats continue to be problematic for growers.
Thrips are the vector that transmits the Invasive Necrotic Spot Virus (INSV). Growers are seeing some signs of INSV in current acreage, but it is not a significant problem currently. Field personnel will be on the lookout for thrips and INSV as the virus can spread rapidly and cause significant crop loss.
Growers are doing their best to mitigate the insect pressure with traps, repellent and increased inspections in the fields and plant.
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.