Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this crop update March 20, 2023:
Rain is expected in all California growing regions starting Tuesday, March 21 through Wednesday, March 22.
Production is winding down in Mexico (into South Texas) and Florida, as both regions are entering the end of their season. Expect strong demand and tight supplies.
Santa Maria, California
- Growers continue culling rain-damaged fruit, lowering yields; 50-70% of fruit has been lost due to water damage
- Forecasted rain will heavily impact availability for the next 7-10 days
- Quality concerns include soft skin, decay, white shoulders, and pin rot
- Expect strong demand and elevated markets
Oxnard, California
- Growers continue culling rain-damaged fruit, lowering yields
- Forecasted rain will heavily impact availability for the next 7-10 days
- Quality concerns include soft skin, decay, white shoulders, and pin rot
- Expect volume to increase as the weather dries up
- Expect strong demand and elevated markets
Central Mexico (Loading in South Texas)
- Supplies are tightening; the season will wrap up in the next two to three weeks
- Quality is fair; green shoulders and soft fruit have been reported
- Size is small (approximately 24 to 26 berries per one-pound clamshell)
- Markets will slowly increase as production declines and quality becomes an issue
Florida
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
- Production continues to decrease; the season will wind down over the next two to three weeks
- Quality is good; white shoulders and bronzing are problems
- Size is small (approximately 26 to 28 berries per one-pound clamshell)
- Markets will slowly increase as production declines
