Greenhouse cucumber prices consistent
Prices for greenhouse cucumbers have been consistent over the last five years, while other greenhouse produce like tomatoes on the vine have more drastic declines and increases. Predictable pricing allows growers to assess the volume of cucumbers planted to supply demands without an extreme surplus. “Prices are going to stay consistent,” declares Meinhardt, “high volume of cucumbers in the summer months leads to lower prices. Since it’s nearing the middle of summer temperatures are high along with production.”
Volume and consumption on increase
Production out of British Columbia in the Surrey region and Alberta’s Medicine Hat area has been elevated. Greenhouse cucumber consumption has been on the rise over the years with consumers interested in living a healthier lifestyle with healthier eating habits. “Volume and consumption are increasing and will continue to increase,” adds Meinhardt.
Integrated crops innovation of production
Red Hat Co-op practices great greenhouse pest and disease management, tackling most of the problems with a watchful eye before too much damage is inflicted onto the growing crops. The real innovation of Red Hat Co-op’s greenhouse growing operation is integrated crops. While tomato and pepper plants produce renewable stock, cucumber plants have a shorter lifespan of eight to 12 weeks. “In years past, the cucumbers would be planted, picked and sold and then the grower would have to wait for new crop to grow,” explains Meinhardt, “by integrating crop, there is no high volume of crop with no periods of inactivity, just constant production.”
Cocktail and Pickling cucumbers in demand
Greenhouse growers are constantly experimenting to produce different varieties of cucumbers for consumers. Five years ago, mini cucumbers did not exist, and now are profitable and in demand. The last six to 12 months has seen an increase in the supply and demand of cocktail cucumbers, smaller than minis. “Pickling cucumbers are another variety growing in consumption,” states Meinhardt, “They’re usually grown in fields, however more and more have been grown in greenhouses extending the season and creating a bit of traction.”
Prairie consumers can't beat the freshness
Prairie grown cucumbers are picked and shipped within a day to offer consumers the freshest product possible high in nutrition and with a perfect crispness. “They’re ripened on the vine,” declares Meinhardt, “so they have a long shelf life of about two weeks.”
For more information please contact:
Mike Meinhardt
Sales and Marketing Manager
Red Hat Cooperative Ltd
Tel: (403) 548-6208
Fax: (403) 548-7255
sales@redhatco-op.com
www.redhatco-op.com