As cool temperatures in California give way to warmer weather, asparagus farmers expect good production in 2012. As more production areas come online, prices should come down.
The California Asparagus Commission reported cooler than normal weather conditions slowed spear development in asparagus beds. Low night temperatures were especially noted to have hampered this year's crop.
But as the weather has started to warm, growers are expecting good volumes.
“Supplies are continuing to increase,” says Mark McBride of Coastline Produce, “and that's a result of good weather.”
The market for asparagus was reported as steady by the USDA with prices between $18.75 and $20.75 per carton as of February 23rd. As supplies increase, however, prices should go down.
“There will be downward pressure on the market from increased supplies,” predicts McBride.
He says that will happen as the Salinas growing area begins producing more volume in late February or early March. Good supplies of vegetables should be available into June.
“There should be good supplies at affordable prices,” says McBride, “so there will be lots of opportunities to get good-priced asparagus.”