The supply of Ontario greenhouse greens has increased, thanks in part to a new operation opening in the province. "Our supply has increased as well just due to the optimization of our fertility program and our soil profile," says Ian Adamson of Greenbelt Organic Greens, a certified organic controlled environment agriculture (CEA) grower in Ontario "That's increased productivity altogether."
Add to that the fact that the grower's customer base has also increased as the company has replaced more imported lettuce. "One of our larger customers has cut off the supply from U.S. vendors," says Adamson. "Definitely the 'elbows up/buy Canadian' movement has impacted our business in a fairly positive way."
© Greenbelt Organic Greens
Ramping up productivity
In fact, demand for the product jumped significantly and suddenly in late winter. "Unfortunately we couldn't satisfy the demand. To satisfy our customer base was exceptionally challenging," says Adamson, noting that supply needs up to three to four weeks before a planned increase can materialize in CEA growing. Demand has also since stabilized but continues to be strong.
While the increased supply is across all varieties, the company's Spring Mix blend still remains its number one item while demand is also strong for arugula.
As for pricing, it is up compared to pricing last year at this time, albeit only moderately so. "Again though we're still priced against the U.S. imports which is unfortunate but it is also the reality of the commodity market," says Adamson, adding that increased costs continue to be difficult for growers and in Ontario, energy costs are a particular challenge.
For more information:
Ian Adamson
Greenbelt Organic Greens
[email protected]
https://greenbeltorganicgreens.com/
