Earlier in the year beans were in oversupply and low demand but it seems to be turning around. Now supply is “ample”. Normally Northampton Growers plants every other day, but they were unable to plant two months ago because of rain on the south Florida field.
Prices are fair but may be on the rise due to possible tightness. Green, wax and flat varieties grown are produced for the fresh market to retail, foodservice and wholesalers. From now until June 1, supply comes out of the Florida location, then moves on to North Carolina and Virginia.
Cabbage is big for St. Paddy's
There are certain holidays where consumption may spike for beans but nowhere near the farm’s cabbage demand. Cabbage is a big deal for St. Patrick’s Day. “We sell more cabbage in three weeks prior to the holiday then we will sell in three months total,” said Calvert Cullen. More acreage is planted for that time of year because volume is usually so heavy. “Right now the plantings are beautiful. We’re expecting good supply so hopefully we can have a good market with good supply.” Most (about 95 per cent) goes to fresh market retail, wholesale and foodservice.
The end customer’s most common use for the vegetable is in their celebratory cabbage and corned beef hash. Avocados have Super Bowl Season and cabbage has a hold on St. Paddy’s Day. “Demand then will be off the charts. It’s always that way,” Cullen said.
For more information:
Calvert Cullen – Sales/Co-Owner
Northampton Growers Produce Sales
Ph: (561) 364-8260