The onion season in Washington and Oregon has started strongly, with a good quality crop despite the later start. Sizing is on the smaller side which growers say is typical for this time of year. Persistent winter conditions resulted in a later start to planting, however growing conditions during the summer have been conducive to an excellent crop.
"We've been in harvest since the last week of July," shared Steve Proctor of Sunset Produce. "It was a later start to planting in the spring compared with a year ago, but the season is in full swing now. There has been good growing weather during the summer, albeit hot at times. Currently day time highs are in the low to mid 80s while night time lows are around 60. The early crop is displaying a smaller profile but overall size and quality are looking excellent so far."
Proctor also noted that there has been smoke in the area lately from fires in British Columbia but it has had a positive effect on the crop. "It's irritating to be in the smoke at first, but it has shielded the crop from the most intense heat," he noted. "The smoke is expected to clear up by Thursday of this week."
Moderate crop should result in good market
The market is not expected to be saturated with onions this year. There seems to be a good mix of colors as well, in both demand and volume. "We feel good about the market this year," Proctor said. "There are many factors that are affecting the market. Expectations are for there to be plenty of room in the market this year as there are not too many onions around. Right now, the storage crop is still showing very good quality and overall volume is looking steady."
Proctor added that Sunset Produce enjoy a program that suits their business and allows them to operate profitably. "Our acreage remains largely the same and we will continue to focus on our retail and foodservice programs," he shared. "We enjoy a good mix of customers and it has been working well for us."
Automation the key moving forward
Just like many produce industries, the onion business is tough. Growers are needing to find ways to stay ahead of the constant challenges that they face. Labor is one of the biggest issues facing growers everywhere. Subsequently, onion growers are one of the biggest adopters of technology and innovation. Proctor said that Sunset Produce are no exception and they plan on installing at least one new piece of automated equipment each year.
"Labor is a major concern and Sunset Produce continues to apply automation in its operations," he explained. "This year we have installed some new equipment ready for the season and each year, we are going to install more equipment. The labor issue is affecting agriculture, not just here in the Northwest, but on a global scale. Competition for labor is increasing worldwide and automation is providing an excellent solution."
For more information:
Steve Proctor
Sunset Produce
Tel: +1 (509) 786-3996