Weekend rain to further disrupt strawberry supplies

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released this strawberry crop update February 15, 2024:

Rain is expected in the Oxnard, California, growing region starting Sunday, February 18 and continuing through Wednesday, February 21.

This rain event will reduce supply levels and have a negative effect on quality. Rain is expected in the Dover, FL, growing region from Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18.

Oxnard

• The forecast calls for rain Sunday, February 18 through Wednesday, February 21
• Volume is currently low and with rainfall forecast for next week, supplies will further tighten
• Expect a demand-exceeds-supply market for the next two weeks
• Quality is currently good; rain will decrease overall quality, causing white shoulders and bruising
• Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns

Mexico (into South Texas)

• Overall volume is decreasing as the season has moved past its peak
• Quality is currently good; white shoulders have been reported
• Anticipate steady prices and tight supplies this region helps fill the void from West Coast shortages

Florida

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Forecasts call for rain Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18
• Quality is currently good; white shoulders and uneven size have been reported
• Expect tight supplies at the start of next week as fields recover from rain; volume will increase later next week due as weather improves

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.