Even as broccoli transitions from Yuma to Salinas and Santa Maria, production is “skippy” because of California’s recent torrents of rain in the last few months. Product is also coming out of Mexico; shipments start slowing down as April becomes nearer. “The current supply of broccoli is fairly tight and should remain tight for the next month,” said Jimmy Carter, owner and sales manager of Parker Farms.
Higher prices
According to Carter, Mexico’s supplies are fairly light this week as well. “It’s being grown in the east coast by us and some other smaller entities. Production is fairly steady and will remain steady for the next two months.” Low supply is also a good indicator that prices, which are higher, will likely continue to go higher, Carter said, compared to last year.
Potential quality issues California
Growing conditions were good on the East Coast and Mexico. Carter said Salinas and Santa Maria have been very much a challenge due to rains and flooding. “Supplies out of Mexico and the west will be fairly light and there could be some quality issues out of the California crop,” said Carter. “Out of the east I don’t see any issues. Quality and supply should be pretty steady. Weather has been the X factor and will continue to be, both to the positive and to the negative.”
For more information:
Jimmy Carter
Parker Farms
Tel: (804) 224 – 1990