After navigating a stretch of unusually cold weather earlier this spring, D’Ottavio Farms is entering the New Jersey growing season with optimism, supported by expanding acreage, new technology investments and strong demand across multiple produce categories.

From June 1, 2026, Mariska Zeeman will join Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland as managing director on a permanent basis. Zeeman has served as interim director since November 2025, following the departure of Yvonne Watzdorf.

As we close out May and move into June, several high-volume items are still working through supply gaps. Some markets are getting help from lighter school demand, but weather, disease pressure and seasonal transitions continue to limit availability on key commodities. The biggest areas to watch this week are lettuce, lemons, potatoes and avocados.

EV Produce International, a specialist in year-round, high-quality Mexican limes and chayote, has launched a new brand called FAMILIME to coincide with its peak lime availability from May to July and its connection to family. Packs are now available in supermarkets nationwide.

Aimed at helping its products stand out in retail produce departments, the FAMILIME brand is inviting, bold and fun, boasting distinctive colorful pink packaging. 

The New England Produce Council hosted a successful TopGolf networking event Wednesday, May 13, sponsored by Grimmway Farms, Suja, Taylor Farms/Earthbound, Bard Valley and Marzetti.

The IFPA Women’s Fresh Perspectives Pacific Northwest Regional Conference brought together women from across the fresh produce and agriculture industries for a day focused on leadership, connection and community building. 

“The passion in the room was incredible, and it was inspiring to watch women from across agriculture and fresh produce come together to learn, connect and support one another,” said Catherine Gipe-Stewart of Superfresh Growers.