Georgia is producing strong volumes of bell peppers at the moment as summer temperatures encourage strong growth. Meanwhile in Michigan, growers are preparing for their harvest in a month's time. Both states have experienced significant rainfall in recent months, but each have very different results from those rain events.
"The bell pepper season in Georgia is expected to continue up until July 4, depending on the weather and heat," said Todd Van Solkema of Van Solkema Family Farms. "There has been a lot of rainfall in Georgia and we certainly don't want to see any more. Volume has been strong and quality has been very high in Georgia, with everything pretty much in line as it was last year."
"Michigan is not expected to start before July 20," he continued. "Storm Alberto brought a good amount of rain to Michigan also which was very beneficial for the crop, with growers experiencing excellent conditions."
Market "could be better"
With Georgia producing plenty of bell peppers, the market is low right now, with suppliers noting sluggish movement. "The market could be better," Van Solkema noted. "At the moment, larger size peppers are selling for a market price of $12. The market is on the quieter side right now."
Although the market is slow currently, Van Solkema said that growers are hoping that the Michigan crop will help boost consumption, with consumers increasingly looking to buy locally-sources products. "The big thing right now that everyone is excited about is the 'homegrown' movement," he noted. "Overall demand for local produce is very good. Despite the current weak market, Michigan could walk into a good market once Georgia finishes."
Updated packaging for upcoming seasonVan Solkema Family Farms has been busy re-assessing their packaging options in time for the upcoming Michigan season. After installing new equipment, the company will also be moving towards bags for their peppers.
"We've added new packaging and bagging equipment, as well as some new machinery this year," Van Solkema shared. "There will be a focus on fewer pouches and more 1lb bags. We will also be continuing to expand our 3 pack retail bags and increasing our volume on those this year."
For more information:
Todd Van Solkema
Van Solkema Family Farms
Tel: +1 (616) 878-1508