As volumes of Black Mission figs out of California decrease, fig growers in Arizona are anticipating the start of their second crop can fulfil demand in July. As is typical for most second crops, volumes and quality are expected to be good.
“The second crop in Arizona looks good,” said Steve Matych of Regatta Tropicals. “It comes off of new wood, so that's always a good crop with not a lot of variance from year to year.” For Regatta Tropicals, which gets its supplies of Black Mission figs from 50 acres located outside of Phoenix, this year's first crop was also good due to a mild spring. First crop supplies from Arizona were available from mid-May through June, and then California first crop supplies showed up in June.
“I heard the California crop was on the lighter side,” said Matych. “and pricing was relatively strong through most of the first season.” On June 23, prices for a flat of Black Mission figs out of Coachella were between $24.00 and $25.00 at the Los Angeles Terminal.
Consumption increasing
Production out of California complements that from Arizona, and vice-versa. But when neither state has volumes available, Mexican imports fill in the gaps. Matych takes that as a sign that consumers are buying more figs, as demand is now sufficient to justify year-round availability of the fruit. Conversely, with more figs available, consumers have a better chance of buying the fruit.
“It seems like demand is always increasing,” said Matych. “With consistent supply now available year-round, that can only help with popularity.”
For more information:
Steve Matych
Regatta Tropicals
+1 805 473 1320