“In comparison to last year, this year has been a really good year for green onions”, says Raul Plascencia with Sunsation Farms. “Last year was a poor market due to high supplies and lower demand caused by cold weather on the East Coast. As a result of last year's large supplies, many growers cut back acreage this year. So far, the market is very good and I feel this is the direct result of less acreage. This year, supply and demand are in line.”
Healthy prices
Prices are also at a very healthy level. “Last year, the market was overproduced and it resulted in very low prices”, said Plascencia. They went as low as $5 - $6 and this year they are mostly above $10. “Size is also more optimal this year with good supplies of the medium 6-8 ct/bunch, which is the most ideal size. Some customers prefer them smaller while others prefer larger green onions, but 6-8 ct is optimal. Due to good movement in the market, growers don't let their green onions grow too big. Everybody is ahead of it and therefore, there is less availability of the bigger size this year”, said Plascencia.
Mexico main growing region
“Right now, we are in the middle of peak season”, commented Plascencia. Mexico is by far the main growing region for green onions. “I only know of one grower that is left here in the Salinas area.” It is a very labor intensive vegetable to grow and the cost of growing them in the US is just too high”, said Plascencia. Sunsation's green onions are grown in the San Luis area, but Mexicali is also a popular growing district for green onions this time of the year. In Summer, production shifts to the Baha region on the coast. Supplies slowdown in summer, but Sunsation is able to offer green onions year-round.
For more information:
Raul Plascencia
Sunsation Farms
Tel: (831) 372-1123