The opening of the Wisconsin celery season has been met with light showers and moderate heat, growers say. Volume is reportedly slightly down on the long term average, but the high quality of the product is making up for it. Growers are very pleased with the quality, as John Bobek of Trembling Prairie Farms explained.
"Our season began on July 15 which is considered on time compared with previous years," he said. "Overall, we have had good weather conditions with a few warm spells and intermittent showers, all of which was beneficial and in line with seasonal conditions. Volume is a little down on the average, but the quality is excellent. In fact, it's some of the best celery we have seen in a long time."
Bobek said the season should continue with steady volumes through September.
Market "average"
The celery market opened strongly in the latter part of spring and early summer, however that momentum has not continued as the summer progressed. Across the US markets, prices have remained subdued as demand has plateaued. Still, the market continues in a steady fashion as California and the Midwest settle as the main producing regions at this time of year.
"The market has been average, perhaps a little slow at times," Bobek observed. "We generally ship our celery in bulk as well as in sleeves for retail. We have our own plastic sleeves with our brand. Some of our product goes to Chicago, while the rest either stays in Wisconsin or is delivered to other parts of the Midwest."
Trembling Prairie Farms also grows potatoes and onions, and also works regularly with Alsum Farms & Produce.
For more information:
John Bobek
Trembling Prairie Farms
Ph: +1 (920) 394-3882
john@tremblingprairiefarms.com
www.tremblingprairiefarms.com