Over the next week, temperatures across Florida are expected to increase by about 20 to 30 degrees. The Belle Glade area, a big corn-growing region, will see temperatures as high as 85⁰F. “That’s good weather for the corn crop,” says Adam Chernow with Schmieding Produce. “Over the past few weeks, the Florida corn harvest has been light due to the cold weather, so these higher temperatures will be a welcome change. They should help everything mature faster,” he added. The nights will still be cold and in the 50⁰F-range, but the warmer daytime weather will support growth of the crop.
Prices as high as $32/crate
Temperatures in the 80-85⁰F range are good for the crop and should result in more corn being harvested. More availability will likely result in prices coming down. “At the moment, availability is very limited, and prices have remained strong,” Chernow mentioned. “We have seen them as high as $30-$32/crate. This high market price has had some retailers temporarily take corn off the shelves.” The warmer weather could result in lower costs based on increased supplies.
Although the Belle Glade area has a limited fall and winter corn crop, the peak season for corn won’t begin until late March early April. The increased acreage and harvest is timed well with the start of grilling season. This time of year, consumers still purchase corn, but just not as much as during the spring and summer.
For more information:
Adam Chernow
Schmieding Produce
Tel: 479-725-6157
Cell: 610-944-2677
adam@schmieding.com
www.schmieding.com