PRO*ACT Crop Update: California seeing drastically increased demand
PRO*ACT Crop Update: California seeing drastically increased demand
Tropical activity has calmed in both the Atlantic and Pacific basin with no potential formation expected this week. Tropical Depression Chantal brought heavy precipitation across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Current forecasts continue to bring heavy precipitation to this region throughout the week. This will once again affect the various supplies across the region.
Central and west-central Mexico is forecast to continue to receive significant precipitation through the week with long-range outlooks keeping the rains in the region into late July.
The southeastern and central Mexico regions have already received significant precipitation from numerous tropical systems — and the rains continue. These regions contribute significant supplies during the summer and fall. All of these factors have drastically increased demand for California supplies. Regional processors who typically rely on production from Mexico are looking to California for supplies further reducing overall volume.
In the Coastal California growing regions, the continued heavy marine layer causing extended cooler temperatures has slowed growth rates in the fields. This has also increased mold, mildew and soil disease in the stands as insect pressure remains problematic. Growers are entering leaf and lettuce fields ahead of schedule to meet the increased demand.
These younger stands are producing lighter weights and head density, with generally good quality. Supplies look to remain light for the near term at a minimum as summer harvests continue. Growers across the various regions are hoping for an improved weather pattern to help fields recover and increase production. We will be watching the weather patterns to keep you up to date as to the potential impacts on the various crops and growing regions as reports become available.
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.
