California's relentless storms over the winter and spring have been more than a damaging inconvenience. This is becoming evident in the produce aisle, where California farmers provide more than a third of the nation's vegetables and 75% of fruit and nuts. Lettuce, strawberries, celery, carrots, and broccoli have all been affected. Rain, floods, and snow have delayed or damaged California crops, and some grocers are posting signs that consumers should expect supply and quality issues until the supply chain can be resolved.
It's hard to tell how long it will take for affected farmers to replenish supplies. Crops, like lettuce, grow quickly and can be harvested a few times a season, while others can take two months to grow. While farmers remain optimistic about getting back on track, it could be mid-summer before some produce supplies return to normal.
Source: fox26houston.com