Supplies of greenhouse cucumbers appear to be ample.
Genci Kutrolli of Wilson Farm, Inc. in Lexington, MA notes that at this time of year, the greenhouse grown seedless cucumbers for their wholesale and retail business come from Canada. “Our supplier in Canada has product year round, however the production slows down in late autumn. Spain and Mexico fill in the gap in the winter months”, says Kutrolli.
Kutrolli says that from what they are seeing, the volume of greenhouse seedless cucumbers at this time seems plentiful. “I think the greenhouses realized how good the market was last year and they increased the acreage that they planted. Consequently, the supply is greater than the demand,” he says. “At the same time, field grown cucumbers from local farms are becoming readily available. While people generally prefer locally grown produce, there’s always demand for greenhouse seedless cukes.” Traditionally, local cucumber supplies are very active in July and August.
Prices down
Not surprisingly, the extra acreage that has been planted has affected pricing. “Prices are very, very low right now because of the abundance”, says Kutrolli. ” The prices are so low that I don’t think it’s very cost effective for the greenhouses. Last year the pricing was $6-$7 rather than the current $3-$4.”
All that said, pricing has been consistent with occasional fluctuations as supplies switch from one greenhouse range to another. For the most part, it’s just been low pricing this year.
For more information:
Genci Kutrolli
Wilson Farm, Inc.
Tel: +1 (781) 316-4031
genci@wilsonfarm.com
www.wilsonfarm.com