ONTARIO LOCAL
** SOON ** KALE– We should start to see both red and green local kale the last week of May.
** SOON ** COLLARDS / SWISS CHARD– We should start to see both collards and red and green local swiss chard the first week of June.
** SOON ** BUNCH RADISH– While there are light supplies around now, we will have steady supplies next week.
** SOON ** FIDDLEHEADS– We are about a week away from Canadian fiddleheads, from Quebec and about two weeks away from Ontario fiddleheads.
** NEW ** RAMPS (WILD LEEKS): The very short wild leek (Ramp) season has started. The season is very short. Once the trees leaf out and the forest floor goes dark, the leek leaves wither away. They offer a unique, pungent cross between garlic and onion. A wild leek takes 7 to 10 years to reach maturity from a seed. Packed in 1lb bags, pricing is the same as last year.
** NEW ** ASPARAGUS– Recent cold nights have slowed growth. Warmer weather will continue to encourage growth. Light supplies are expected throughout the week as the season ramps up. Pricing remains firm as early supplies work to fill a short Mexican market. Simcoe area growers are anticipating cutting between May 6th – 8th, pending mother nature, with strong availability after Mothers Day.
HOTHOUSE ROUND TOMATOES– Hothouse tomatoes have tightened more than expected. Despite increased local supply, strong demand continues to outpace availability. Field supply out of Mexico and Florida remains limited, and until production improves in those regions, we anticipate demand will remain strong and pricing will stay elevated. The vine tomato market has also tightened, facing similar conditions to large tray hothouse; high demand paired with constrained supply. Cocktail tomatoes remain unchanged, with limited availability and consistently strong demand. We don’t expect meaningful improvement until local production increases. The heirloom tomato market also remains strong, largely driven by the ongoing shortage and high demand for large round tomatoes
HOTHOUSE SNACKING TOMATOES– The grape tomato market remains steady compared to last week, with strong demand and elevated pricing. While production in Mexico has been consistent, it has not been sufficient to ease pressure on the market. Both medley and cherry tomatoes have softened slightly, though availability remains limited and supply is expected to stay tight through the remainder of the month. We should start to see some relief on availability mid-May. For On-the-Vine tomatoes, we are beginning to see a slight slowdown in demand; however, pricing remains high until local production ramps up.
HOTHOUSE PEPPERS– Hothouse pepper production remains strong, with demand increasing due to limited supply. The market continues to stay elevated as we move through a short-term gap during the transition between local growing cycles.
ENGLISH CUCUMBERS– The English cucumber market has been somewhat volatile in recent weeks; however, with strong and consistent availability, we are continue to see downward pressure on pricing. The mini cucumber market has continued its decline, largely due to an influx of local product entering the market and increasing overall supply. Baby cucumbers remain relatively unchanged, as ongoing sourcing challenges persist and availability continues to be limited.
RHUBARB– Ontario hothouse Rhubarb continues. Supplies are stable, matching demand. Pricing remains high. Pricing is always very high compared to field rhubarb, which will start in June.
POTATO– Growers continue packing products out of storage. Whites, reds and Yukon golds and chef large #1 are all available.
WAX TURNIP (RUTABEGA)- Rutabaga continues to ship out of storage with good supplies. Prices remain steady.
CARROT– The 2025 storage season is essentially done. Strong demand from the US this year has helped deplete supplies earlier than usual. Heirloom multi colored supplies are steady, with supplies expected into early June, with good quality.
MUSHROOMS– Supplies are good with no disruptions in supply expected.
CABBAGE– Growers continue packing cabbage out of storage. Green and red cabbage supplies are very good. Savoy is finished. Pricing is steady with good demand.
APPLES– Apples continue to be shipped out of storage. Gold Delicious, MacIntosh, Royal Gala, Honeycrisp, Empire, Spartan, Cortland, Red Delicious, Ambrosia and Fuji are all in very good supply. Quality is very good with all sizes available.
HOTHOUSE LETTUCE– Supplies of Sensei Farms baby lettuce are very good with very good quality and exceptional shelf life. Hydroponic boston/butter supplies are good.
HOTHOUSE STRAWBERRIES– Very light supplies of Ontario hothouse strawberries continue with strong demand. Most supplies are going to retail programs. Quality is very good; however, berry size is on the smaller side.
MARKETS TO WATCH: AT A GLANCE
Mango: Mango supply conditions are beginning to tighten as overall availability declines while demand continues to increase.
Lemons: Lemons are gaining strength in the market. Pricing continues to gradually firm.
Iceberg: The iceberg market continues escalating; supplies are extremely limited. Expect elevated prices and limited supplies through early May. Supplies are expected to increase when Mother’s Day demand subsides, leading to lower markets. Value added iceberg products have triggers.
Romaine: Supplies of romaine, along with green and red leaf, have tightened industry-wide, with triggered pricing now in effect on all value-added leaf items. Availability is expected to remain limited over the next few weeks. Value added romaine products are now triggered.
Celery: The celery market remains firm and elevated, with availability described as light to fair and not heavy enough to push pricing meaningfully lower. Value-added celery items are triggered.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower prices remain extremely elevated. Value-added cauliflower items are triggered. Salinas and Santa Maria supplies are extremely limited; cooler weather has slowed growth, forcing growers to wait for size to increase to harvestable maturity.
Broccoli: Broccoli prices remain extremely elevated due to limited supplies in Salinas and Santa Maria, California. Value-added broccoli items re triggered.
Brussels Sprouts: Markets continue to be strong as supplies are tight out of Mexico, leading to overall lower availability. The surplus out of Mexico has passed. Yields have been falling.
Grapes: As the Chilean/Peruvian offshore season winds down with inconsistent quality, premium supplies will stay tight and pricing elevated. A quick transition is ahead, with Mexico early and California about three weeks ahead; increased volume through Nogales by late-May should ease markets and support strong summer promotions.
Assorted Hot Chili Peppers: Although California and Texas are increasing production, some chili varieties remain snug. Mexico: Pest and disease pressure reduced yields early in the season. Reduced plantings have kept prices elevated.
Washington Apples: The latest storage report is showing that storage inventories are lower than the same time last year. As a result, we are seeing a rising market on many varieties, sizes, and packs, and this trend is expected to continue for the next couple of months. The most significant item that is down this year is Royal Gala apples.
Blood Oranges: Blood orange supplies continue to be very tight; most supplies are going to bagging programs.
Bananas: Banana supply continues to be tight and prices could rise over the coming weeks as global demand increases and production in the tropics steadily declines. Pricing is expected to take a noticeable increase in the upcoming weeks. A combination of virus pressure, low yields, and increasing production costs has placed significant strain on this staple commodity.
Eggplant: Florida spring production is ramping up, though the market remains active for now. Mexico has yet to see the typical post-holiday dip, but it is expected soon. As supply increases, pricing should ease, positioning eggplant as a strong promotional item in 2–3 weeks.
Strawberries: Supplies are extremely limited and quality is questionable due to prior rain in the Salinas/Watsonville growing regions and strong Mother’s Day demand. The market is holding firm, with weather conditions affecting fruit size, maturity, and overall quality—making it harder to supply larger, premium packs and consistent daily volumes.
Blueberries: High prices are expected to linger into early May; however, we are now seeing a spread in pricing as additional fruit enters the marketplace from California and Florida/Georgia. We anticipate stable market pricing by next week. The Pacific Northwest season is expected to begin ramping up by mid-late May.
Raspberries: Demand for raspberries remains strong, with some spread in pricing depending on loading region. Supplies will stay somewhat moderate through the first couple of weeks of May as fruit from Central Mexico, California, and Baja is blend to support overall demand.
California Navel Oranges: The California Navel season is projected to wrap up in mid- to late May. California Valencia production has started. The Navel crop is heavy on large fruit, with supplies peaking on 56/72/48 count. Small sizes, 88/113/138 count, remain tight and will continue to be limited throughout the season.
Clementine / Mandarin: Mandarin / Clementines remain limited across the whole category, and supply continues to be tight.
Onions: The storage season for onions has ended in Oregon and Idaho. Washington storage supplies are winding down. Fresh-run onions are available in Texas and Southern California. Prices remain elevated.
Asparagus: Prices remain elevated; Mexican jumbo and extra-large sizes are limited. The Ontario asparagus season is starting; supplies will increase after Mothers Day.
Gold Pineapples: Pineapple supplies are tightening as demand increases. Availability of 6ct and 7ct fruit is expected to be very limited, with another 2–4 weeks needed for improvement and much better supplies in June. Overall supply is slightly lower than previous weeks, and contracts continue to take priority.
Limes: After a period of easing markets, lime prices are rising. Demand from upcoming holidays has pushed markets up. Due to lack of rainfall in the major growing regions, 200-count and smaller limes make up 79% of available supply.
Stone Fruit: Black and Red plums continue from Chile. California cherries, apricots and nectarines have started with very light supplies.
Hothouse Tomato: Hothouse tomatoes have tightened more than expected. Despite increased local supply, strong demand continues to outpace availability. Field supply out of Mexico and Florida remains limited, and until production improves in those regions, we anticipate demand will remain strong and pricing will stay elevated.
Grape / Cherry / Campari / Cocktail Tomato: The grape tomato market remains steady compared to last week, with strong demand and elevated pricing. While production in Mexico has been consistent, it has not been sufficient to ease pressure on the market. Both medley and cherry tomatoes have softened slightly, though availability remains limited and supply is expected to stay tight through the remainder of the month. We should start to see some relief on availability mid-May.
Field Tomato: Round tomato supplies remain limited out of Mexico. The Central Florida season is getting underway; supplies will increase into next week.
Hothouse Peppers: Hothouse pepper production remains strong, with demand increasing due to limited supply. The market continues to stay elevated as we move through a short-term gap during the transition between local growing cycles.
Supply and Quality General Update
Romaine is starting to tighten in Salinas. Growth has been slow, and both field pack and processed supplies are coming in lighter than expected. On top of that, we’re seeing demand shift out of iceberg and into romaine, which is adding pressure. Seeder is still an issue and will continue to limit yields over the next couple of weeks. There isn’t much relief with Iceberg isn’t giving us much relief either. Fields are dealing with Sclerotinia, which is cutting yields and tightening supply. Processors are also stepping into the open market to cover shorts, which is pulling product away from the fresh side and keeping things volatile. Broccoli and cauliflower are in the same boat. Cooler weather and recent rain slowed things down, and harvests haven’t caught back up yet. Yields are lighter, demand is steady, and markets are staying elevated. Even the light rain over the weekend had an impact. Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard all saw some moisture. Not a big storm, but enough to slow crews down. When that happens, harvest gets more selective, and yields drop. We’re expecting 10–15% less production short term, and with cooler weather this week, things aren’t going to bounce back right away. If there’s a slight advantage anywhere, Santa Maria has a little more availability than other regions, but still below normal.
Asparagus is still extremely tight. Sonora is wrapping up, Baja is just getting started, and it’s not nearly enough to cover near-term demand, especially with Mother’s Day coming. Domestic production is late, and frost hasn’t helped. Peru is filling in, but quality has been hit or miss and freight is tight. Bottom line, not much relief here until mid- to late May.
Tomatoes continue to be one of the toughest spots in the market, especially rounds. Mexico remains extremely tight on round tomatoes due to recent weather and reduced acreage, keeping prices elevated. Florida is starting to help, with Central production getting underway and expected to build this week, while South Florida winds down. That should bring some gradual relief, but not immediately. Romas are tightening as well, especially out of Florida as growers move into later picks. Demand has picked up as buyers look for substitutes for rounds, keeping markets firm. Mexico remains limited, though new production out of Jalisco and Baja is starting to come online and should build over the next few weeks. Grape and cherry are the only ones showing some improvement. Florida and Baja are adding volume, quality is good, and markets have started to ease. That trend should continue into May. With Mother’s Day around the corner, the Central Coast is basically one weather event away from getting even tighter. We’ve got weather, disease pressure, and transition gaps all hitting at once. Supply is tight, markets are elevated, and flexibility is going to matter over the next few weeks.
Imported edible flower supplies are very sporadic due to airlines reducing their schedules due to constrained jet fuel supplies in Europe as airline cancel flights to conserve fuel. Air cargo rates are up as much as 50% due to limited flights, capacity is down over 40% due to flight cancellations and more urgent freight taking priority and increased demand for air freight due to sea going vessels being stuck in the straight of Hormuz. This is making air freight very unreliable and expensive. To ensure steady supplies for Mothers Day and beyond, we will be transitioning to a local supplier, who grows product year round. The only exception will be edible orchids, which are not grown locally.
Transportation Update
The continued conflict involving Iran has significantly constrained the flow of oil and refined‑fuel through the Strait of Hormuz, a major global
energy chokepoint. Fresh produce, which relies heavily on truck transportation, is particularly affected by diesel fuel inflation. Limited trucks and record high fuel costs are putting upward pressure on rates daily. We are seeing several freight companies, including sea and air freight companies, invoking fuel surcharges which will impact cost inputs.
Diesel and aircraft fuel inventories were already limited prior to the conflict. Diesel prices have risen faster than gasoline markets. The diesel fuel US national average surpassed $5.00 per gallon, the highest level since 2022. The current national average is $5.608 per gallon. West Coast prices are exceeding $7.53 per gallon; with some markets over $8.00 per gallon. Diesel represents roughly 20–25% of total trucking cost per mile, making carriers highly sensitive to fuel spikes. Prices are expected to remain elevated until meaningful normalization of global oil flow occurs; no near term relief is expected. Temporary fuel surcharges are in effect on most items and transportation lanes until oil prices ease.
VEGETABLES
The leaf lettuce market continues to strengthen and remain elevated, with the most significant pressure centered on romaine, especially hearts and value‑added items as supplies stay tight. The spring transition from Yuma, Arizona, into Salinas, California, is underway, and as desert supplies wind down, and crews/equipment settle into new districts, availability and volumes remain inconsistent week to week. Warm temperatures and weather variability are contributing to ongoing quality challenges (including tip/fringe burn, mildew pressure, bruising, and lighter carton weights), which are limiting yields and supporting the firmer market tone. Mexican imports remain active and help cover some of the demand, but they are largely supplemental rather than corrective, and do not appear to be easing overall market firmness during the transition. Near‑term pricing is expected to stay firm, with volatility persisting until Salinas production fully stabilizes and yields improve.
ICEBERG– The iceberg market continues escalating; supplies are extremely limited. Expect elevated prices and limited supplies well into May. Supplies are expected to increase slightly when Mother’s Day demand subsides, providing somewhat better availability. Value added iceberg products have triggers. California: The market remains very active and is expected to stay that way for at least the next few weeks, with demand continuing to exceed industrywide supplies. Common quality issues include outer leaf discoloration, lighter weights, and misshapen heads. Value-added items will remain elevated and limited. Production is currently coming out of the Salinas Valley and Southern California, with Mexico contributing light volumes as well. Mexico: Supplies are in a demand exceeds situation. Quality is good; average weights are lower than California-grown heads. New Mexico: Production started last week in Las Cruces.
ROMAINE / LEAF– Supplies of romaine, along with green and red leaf, have tightened industry-wide, with triggered pricing now in effect on all value-added leaf items. Availability is expected to remain limited over the next few weeks. Romaine hearts are also in short supply across all shippers, with lighter weights and smaller head sizing anticipated. Light fringe burn has been reported as well.
SPRING MIX/BABY SPINACH/BABY ARUGULA/BABY KALE– Supplies continue out of Salinas. Tender leaf items such as spinach and arugula remain in good supply. There is some minor insect damage and discoloration are being reported. Arugula: Quality is fairly good; occasional mildew, bolting, insects and yellowing have been reported. Baby Spinach: Quality is good, but we continue to see occasional quality problems, including mildew and bruising. Spring Mix: Supplies and quality are okay. Weather has affected harvesting and quality, causing additional supply issues. We are also now seeing disease pressure and mildew which are further impacting yields.
CARROTS– West Coast carrot supplies remain tight as the Imperial Valley season winds down; overall size is smaller than normal for this time of year. Limited availability is expected through May as reduced size is lowering yields; commodity pack prices have increased as a result. California: Supplies will remain extremely tight through May as the Imperial Valley season winds down. Expect increased supplies in mid-May, when the Bakersfield season kicks in. Imperial Valley yields are tight due to reduced sizing. California accounts for 80% of the nation’s carrot supply. Growers are holding to six-week averages. Expect a demand-exceeds-supply market; 96-hour lead times are necessary to help fill orders. Commodity pack (jumbo carrot) substitutions are available out of Arizona and Georgia. Elevated markets and limited supplies will persist into May. Georgia: The season will run through early June. Commodity supplies are tight; quality is very good. Expect high prices as this region helps fill the void from California. Arizona: The season is in full swing and will run through mid-June; quality is great. Expect high prices and strong demand as this region helps fill the void from California. Mexico: Inconsistent production has been an issue. Expect moderately high pricing and strong demand until California production increases. Ontario / Québec: The storage season is finished. There still are supplies of heirloom carrots, which should continue until June. Reminder that new crop will be very slim.
MUSHROOMS– Quality and supplies are very good with lighter demand. At this time, we do not see any supply issues.
ASPARAGUS– Prices remain elevated; Mexican jumbo and extra-large sizes are limited. The Ontario asparagus season is starting; supplies will increase after Mothers Day. Ontario: Recent cold nights have slowed growth. Warmer weather will continue to encourage growth. Light supplies are expected throughout the week as the season ramps up. Pricing remains firm as early supplies work to fill a short Mexican market. Simcoe area growers are anticipating cutting between May 6th – 8th, pending mother nature, with strong availability after Mothers Day. Mexico: Jumbo and extra-large sizes are forecast to remain extremely limited until mid-May. The crop’s size profile continues to skew toward standard and large. Light production has started in Baja, Mexico, and will increase over the next few weeks; harvests in Central Mexico will follow by mid-May. New crop Baja quality is good: growers report minimal seeding. Expect high prices until mid-May. Peru: Although supplies are currently average, reduced Mexican volume is driving up demand in all regions. Quality ranges from average to good. Prior high heat impacted quality in some regions. Feathered tips, dehydration, and flabby spears have been reported. Pricing will remain elevated until volume increases in Mexico and the U.S. California/Michigan/Washington: Asparagus production is increasing and beginning to provide modest market relief. California harvests are just getting underway, but will reach marketable volume by mid-May. Washington production has started; yields will continue to build over the next few weeks. Cool weather has delayed the Michigan season; full production is anticipated by the second week of May. Pricing remains firm as early supplies work to fill a short Mexican market. Expect more consistent supplies on both coasts by mid-May, barring any weather disruptions.
GARLIC- Supplies from China, Mexico and California continue. Quality from all remains very good. China: New crop peeled garlic continues to arrive with pricing easing as supplies increase. Quality is very good. Expect supplies to remain strong exceeding demand. North American: The California 2025 garlic crop is holding up very well as we move through early 2026. Overall, it was a strong season that yielded high-quality garlic, which has helped keep the North American market stable. While the 2025 crop currently in storage is doing fine, the major industry buzz right now is about the upcoming 2026 harvest. With warnings of a potential “zero federal water allotment” for Westside growers, planting decisions and acreage for the summer 2026 crop are under intense pressure. The quality is good. U.S. tariffs on Chinese garlic have shifted demand to Mexico and California.
US NEW CROP RED / WHITE / YELLOW POTATO- Florida: Supplies remain limited as the harvesting transition from Southern to Northern Florida is underway. The Southern Florida season is expected to finish in mid-May. Northern Florida production has started with low volume; quality is very good. Pricing is elevated across all colors and sizes, but expected to stabilize as supplies increase. Upcoming Regions: The Arizona season will start next week. California production will begin in mid-May. Texas supplies will start shipping in late June.
CANADIAN POTATO– Canada held 10.3% more potatoes in storage on April 1 than the 2025 stock. It is Canada’s largest April 1 potato inventory on record, and it exceeds the five-year average supply by 21.4%. Most of the extra potatoes are in Alberta, though stocks are also up in Manitoba and British Columbia. Inventories in Quebec and Ontario are relatively flat, while stocks in PEI and New Brunswick are down from last year. Stocks intended for processing use exceed year earlier holdings by 13.4%. Table potato inventories increased by 4.7%. Canada’s March potato disappearance was 6.2% less than year-earlier movement. Geographically, March disappearance dropped in the Prairie Provinces and Quebec. On the other hand, usage increased in New Brunswick and British Columbia. March disappearance in PEI and Ontario nearly matched last year’s pace. Processing potato disappearance was down 13.7% from the previous year. March table potato shipments fell 11.1% below year-earlier usage. Ontario: The province’s March potato disappearance exceeded year-earlier movement by 1.6%. That left Ontario with nearly matching year earlier holdings. The stocks include fewer table potatoes from the 2025 inventory. March table potato disappearance fell 13.0% short of the previous year’s pace. At last month’s disappearance rate, the remaining table potato stocks would last through June 22. Ontario had 3.4% more chip potatoes on April 1. At the March disappearance rate, those potatoes would last through July 26. P.E.I.: Island growers had 5.1% fewer potatoes in storage on April 1 than they held a year ago. This year’s April 1 inventory is the Island’s smallest since 2021. March disappearance nearly matched the 2025 pace. Intended use data show that the Island had 12% fewer processing potatoes in storage on April 1 than the year-earlier inventory. March processing potato disappearance was up 7.3% from the previous year. At the March usage pace, the remaining processing potatoes would last through August 16. Growers also had 12% more table potatoes left in storage on April 1. However, our sources indicate that PEI is not long on table potatoes. Most growers suggest that table potato supplies are tight. Calculated March table potato movement was down 11.7% from a year ago. Local observers believe PEI should be able to finish shipping the remaining table potatoes on schedule. New Brunswick: New Brunswick’s April 1 potato stocks are down 5.5% from the 2025 inventory. Calculated March potato disappearance exceeded the previous year’s pace. Intended use data indicate that March processing potato usage exceeded 2025 usage by 3.1%. New Brunswick reports that it had 12.7% more processing potatoes left in storage on April 1, than year-earlier holdings. At the March disappearance rate, those potatoes would last through September 9. Reports indicate growers had 36.9% fewer table potatoes in storage on April 1 than they held at the same time in 2025. March table potato disappearance is inaccurate, due to imprecise March 1 reported stocks. However, at the five-year average disappearance rate, the province’s remaining table potatoes would last through August 1. Quebec: March disappearance fell short of the 2025 pace. That left Quebec with fewer potatoes in storage on April 1 than year-earlier holdings. The province’s March table potato disappearance fell short of 2025 movement. April 1 table potato stocks were 4.9% higher than last year’s inventory. At the March usage rate, Quebec’s table potato stocks would last through July 27. The province’s March processing potato disappearance fell short of the previous year’s pace. At the March usage pace, the remaining processing potato inventory would last through October 13. We do not have the necessary data to make the split between French Fry and chip potato inventories. British Columbia: The province had 75.2% more potatoes left in storage on April 1 than 2025 holdings. It is British Columbia’s largest April 1 inventory since 2007. March disappearance exceeded the 2025 pace. At the March usage rate, the province’s remaining table potatoes would last through June 2. Alberta: March potato disappearance was down 11.7% relative to year-earlier movement. That left Alberta’s April 1 potato stocks at a record high amount; 48.2% more than the province had in storage on April 1, 2025. Intended use data show increases in each category. Alberta’s March processing potato disappearance fell 16.5% short of year-earlier usage. The processing sector had 40.8% more potatoes left in storage on April 1 than the 2025 inventory. At the March usage rate, Alberta’s remaining processing potatoes would last through mid-January. Some extra processing potatoes will be shipped to PEI, while others will be dumped or diverted to cattle feed. The province also had more table potatoes left in storage on April 1 than the year-earlier inventory. March table potato disappearance exceeded last year’s pace by 41.8%. At that usage rate, the remaining table potatoes would be cleaned up by May 2.
BEANS– Florida has transitioned to new crop; both supply and quality is strong. Pricing remains at normal levels. There are now also some yellow beans available. Mexico is still harvesting and is expected to until California ramps up. Quality is mixed; Florida is excellent (new crop), Mexico is hit and miss as the season winds down.
CABBAGE– Ontario: Green and red cabbage supplies are good with very good quality being shipped out of storage. Savoy cabbage supplies are trending lower and the switch to US savoy is imminent. Prices are stable as demand from US buyers stabilizes. Imports: The US Southeast has good supplies currently. Florida is finishing, with Georgia just beginning. Quality and sizing are good out of Georgia.
US CARTON BAKING POTATOES– Carton baking potatoes continue to be available in Idaho and Washington. Storage crop pricing remains low. Idaho: Storage crop Norkotah and Burbank Potatoes are being shipped. Norkotah storage supplies are expected to be depleted by late June. Burbank volume is slowly ramping up; the crop is dominated by small sizes. The gradual shift from Norkotahs to Burbanks will result in fewer 40- through 80-count potatoes. Pressure and shoulder bruising are beginning to show in late-season storage supplies, but overall quality remains strong; these issues (soft, external indents) result from constant contact with adjacent potatoes, or the floor, while raw product sits in storage piles. Washington: Storage crop Norkotah Potatoes are available. Size is dominated by larger counts. Quality is very good. Markets remain steady. Colorado & Wisconsin: All Colorado sizes are available with good mixer volume; demand for large, 40ct and 50ct supplies is active. Wisconsin yields are dominated by small, 90ct to 120ct sizes. Quality is good. Prices continue to hold steady.
SWEET POTATO– Sweet potato markets are poised to rise. Lower yields along with unexpected surge in demand during January and February has suppliers keeping their remaining storage supplies tight. Prices are anticipated to climb over the summer months until new crop stocks are harvested in late August or early September. California: Remaining storage supplies are adequate. The quality is very good. Strong East Coast demand is pushing markets higher. Louisiana: Very limited supplies remain; the season is expected to finish by the first week of April. Remaining quality ranges from fair to good. New crop harvests will resume in September. Mississippi: Dry summer months reduced overall yields for winter and spring storage. Quality is good. Lower volume and strong demand will push prices higher. North Carolina: Unexpected demand in January and February has forced suppliers to keep remaining storage inventories tight. Quality is good. Markets are expected to increase over the next several months.
ASSORTED CHILI PEPPERS– Although California and Texas are increasing production, some chili varieties remain snug. Mexico: Pest and disease pressure reduced yields early in the season. Reduced plantings have kept prices elevated. Pasilla quality problems have tightened this variety the most. Demand is strong within Mexico, reducing availability in the market. United States: Texas production is fully underway. California harvests are increasing, easing prices for Jalapeno and Anaheim peppers. The Georgia season is expected to begin in two to three weeks. Prices will remain elevated until production ramps up.
FIELD PEPPERS– New crop production in South Florida and South Georgia as well as Coachella have increased supplies and put downward pressure on price. However, we do expect the second half of May to remain volatile, as Florida will be on the tail end of their deal. Temperatures are starting to rise in Florida, so we expect the heat to start taking a toll on the crop. Georgia is set to start in a small way around May 15-18, with load volume starting around the first week of June.
BROCCOLI– Broccoli prices remain extremely elevated due to limited supplies in Salinas and Santa Maria, California. Value-added broccoli items re triggered. A period of high temperatures, followed by recent cooler weather, has tightened California supplies. Quality ranges from fair to good. Diamondback moth pressure has decreased due to cooler temperatures. Mexican supplies are meeting demand. Quality is good. Mexican pricing is markedly lower compared to the California. The Florida season has ended; North and South Carolina production will begin in early May. Indiana harvests will start in clearly June and Ontario will follow late June. Expect persistently elevated pricing and limited availability for the next three weeks.
CELERY– The celery market remains firm and elevated, with availability described as light to fair and not heavy enough to push pricing meaningfully lower. Oxnard, California remains the key driver, and recent market notes continue to indicate quality concerns in the background, reinforcing the current price structure. Value-added celery items are triggered. Mexican celery remains a supplemental piece of the mix, but volumes appear controlled and are not currently shifting the market tone lower. The near‑term outlook calls for steady to firm conditions, with limited immediate relief anticipated.
CAULIFLOWER– Cauliflower prices remain extremely elevated. Value-added cauliflower items are triggered. Salinas and Santa Maria supplies are extremely limited; cooler weather has slowed growth, forcing growers to wait for size to increase to harvestable maturity. Quality ranges from fair to good. Recent and upcoming wet conditions may contribute to black mold, mildew, and off-color. Florida production is winding down; Georgia harvests are ramping up. Mexican cauliflower, crossing into South Texas, is available. Expect higher pricing and limited supplies until late May.
SNOW PEAS / SUGAR SNAP PEAS– Guatemalan snow pea and sugar snap supplies remain steady. Above-average heat and recent rainfall across Northern Mexico have reduced available yields. Quality issues have increased: scarring and discoloration are being reported in most lots. Supplies remain tight due to reduced harvestable volume and prevalent defects. Expect higher pricing and limited supplies over the next three weeks.
FRENCH GREEN BEAN / BABY SQUASH / BABY PEELED TOP CARROTS– Supplies of French beans out of Guatemala remain limited. Mexican French bean availability is also constrained, as cooler weather continues to impact yields. Overall supply is expected to improve by mid-May as growing conditions normalize.
EGGPLANT– Florida spring production is ramping up, though the market remains active for now. Mexico has yet to see the typical post-holiday dip, but it is expected soon. As supply increases, pricing should ease, positioning eggplant as a strong promotional item in 2–3 weeks.
ONIONS– The storage season for onions has ended in Oregon and Idaho. Washington storage supplies are winding down. Fresh-run onions are available in Texas and Southern California. Prices remain elevated. Pacific Northwest: Limited quantities of Washington red and yellow storage onions continue to ship. Growers are transferring white onions from California to fill orders as needed. Red and yellow storage supplies will be exhausted by the last week of May. Quality is fair to good; growers are working to cull translucency, sprouting, and internal decay in remaining storage supplies. Prices are steady. Mexico: Crossings are declining with the increased availability of California and Texas fresh onions. Growers report a wide range of quality; soft texture, mechanical damage, and thin skins are to be expected with fresh-run onions. Prices are slightly lower. Texas: Fresh-run yellow, red, and white onions are available. The Texas fresh run season is expected to finish in mid-May. Quality is good; fresh-run onions will have thinner skins, softer texture, and higher moisture content compared to storage crop onions. We recommend ordering for quick turns. California: Southern California fresh-run onion harvests are continuing to ramp up. Quality is good. Fresh-run onions will exhibit higher moisture content, thinner skins, and overall shorter shelf life. Some growers report increased seeder following fluctuating temperatures this spring. We recommend ordering for quick turns. Current supplies are dominated by medium and jumbo sizes; larger colossal and super colossal sizes remain limited as cooler weather slowed growth. Expect steady prices over 7-10 days. Georgia: Vidalia sweet onions are available; the season will run through early September. Red and yellow onions are now available. Medium and jumbo sizes dominate the crop. Quality ranges from good to excellent. Prices are slightly higher compared to Texas and California fresh-run onions
CORN– After a rather unusual start to the Florida season, we’re finally starting to see more volume. Quality in the Southeast is also improving, and volume will continue to pick up over the next week to 10 days as we ramp up to normal production and prepare for Victoria Day and Memorial Day holiday pull. South Georgia will start production mid-May.
GREEN ONIONS– Green onion supplies are steady, keeping markets steady. Demand remains steady. Quality is good. Availability is expected to remain steady into next week, depending on temperatures.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS– Markets continue to be strong as supplies are tight out of Mexico, leading to overall lower availability. The surplus out of Mexico has passed. Yields have been falling. Transportation costs and border delays are impacting Mexican supplies. Quality is great; good colour, shape, and minimal seeder are being reported. Growing conditions remain optimal, but overall lower volume will keep pushing prices higher. California’s Central Coast season will begin in mid-July. Expect pricing to continue incrementally rising through April.
COLLARDS/CHARD/KALE– Weather in Georgia and Florida continues to offer great growing conditions for greens. Supply and quality are excellent. Texas has good volume and supply as well.
ZUCCHINI– Harvesting transitions are occurring in multiple regions. The Mexican zucchini season is winding down early, while California production is just starting. East Coast growers will move from Florida to Georgia in early May, with some supply overlap. Southeast: Growers are harvesting in South Georgia; quality is very good. Florida production will end in the next 10 days; quality is good. Expect low markets over the next few weeks. Mexico: The Sonora season is winding down after April’s warm weather pushed crops forward. Zucchini production will run until May 10. Yellow harvesting ended for multiple growers on May 2. Quality is average, especially in the yellow squash crop, due to mechanical damage. California: The transition to the San Joaquin Valley started May 2; expect low volume at first. California’s Santa Maria coastal season will begin on May 18. Expect snug supplies and rising prices for the first two weeks of May.
FRUIT
PEARS– The pear market is beginning to strengthen. Strong production of Forelle, Anjou, Bosc, and Red pears out of Oregon and Washington State, continues to meet strong demand. Bosc pears out of the Northwest will be available for another 3 weeks or so. They will be replaced by imports which are beginning to arrive in good quantities into East Coast ports now. Anjou and red pears are projected to be year-round this year and will be promotable through July. Bartletts have finished out of the Northwest and there are now new-crop imported Bartletts from Argentina that are available on the East Coast. Pricing and quality are both attractive on this variety and we expect them to remain promotable for the next several months. The California Bartlett pear season will start in early July. Overall, the pear category will be very promotable the next couple of months.
BLACKBERRIES– Demand for blackberries remains moderate, reflecting in some price corrections with daily spot deals in South Texas with product from Mexico. Central Mexico growers do anticipate more production volume lift in the coming 7-10 days as well. We expect California to begin showing increased production through the first full week of May, with availability out of Santa Maria and Watsonville.
BLUEBERRIES– High prices are expected to linger into early May; however, we are now seeing a spread in pricing as additional fruit enters the marketplace from California and Florida/Georgia. We anticipate stable market pricing by next week. The Pacific Northwest season is expected to begin ramping up by mid-late May.
RASPBERRIES– Demand for raspberries remains strong, with some spread in pricing depending on loading region. Supplies will stay somewhat moderate through the first couple of weeks of May as fruit from Central Mexico, California, and Baja is blend to support overall demand.
STRAWBERRIES– Supplies are extremely limited and quality is questionable due to prior rain in the Salinas/Watsonville growing regions and strong Mother’s Day demand. The market is holding firm, with weather conditions affecting fruit size, maturity, and overall quality—making it harder to supply larger, premium packs and consistent daily volumes. Field crews will conduct additional maintenance, “stripping” (removing) damaged fruit over the coming 2-3 days. As a result, temporary harvest gaps are expected while fields recover and new, healthy fruit sets develop. Expect daily pro-rates regardless of load location as current demand exceeds overall supply availability. Salinas/Watsonville: Quality continues to improve as fields recover from previous rain. Size is medium; 14 to 16 berries per 1-pound clamshell. Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; we recommend ordering for quick turns. Expect high prices for the next 7-10 days. Santa Maria/Oxnard: Overall quality is good; some bruising and white shoulders have been reported. Size ranges from small-medium to medium; 18 to 22 berries per 1-pound clamshell. Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; we recommend ordering for quick turns. Markets will remain elevated for the next 7-10 days. Ontario Hothouse: Hothouse production continues to be very light with most production being allocated to retail programs. Quality is good and sizing is on the smaller side.
MANGO– Projected arrivals for this week are estimated at 2.7 million boxes of rounds, including 1.1 million Ataulfo (Honey) from all origins. Supply is coming out of Mexico, Guatemala, and Dominican Republic. The main varieties available are Tommy Atkins, Kent and Ataulfo (Honey). Oaxaca, Mexico keeps packing but with lower production on rounds. We will see fruit available from this region for the next 2-3 weeks or until the weather allows. Michoacan will keep packing but many growers from Southern Sinaloa and Nayarit are harvesting in large volumes and reducing the overall volume from this region. Due to this, many growers from Michoacan are concerned this will shorten their season. Many will start to see lower production from this region. Industry demand is stable following recent Cinco de Mayo promotional activity, while pricing continues to trend upward. As promotional pulls begin to slow, the industry is expected to see some relief on demand in the coming weeks. However, supply challenges are anticipated to persist from late May through at least the end of June. In the near term, pricing on smaller sizes is expected to remain relatively stable through mid-May, supported by Michoacán’s size curve. Larger sizes are anticipated to increase.
AVOCADO– The avocado market remains well supplied this week as the industry prepares for strong Cinco de Mayo demand. In Mexico, field pricing is steady, while harvest volumes are anticipated to gradually taper as the season nears its close. Mexican national demand remains strong, and the number of active growers is declining as production shifts to higher elevations. Pricing is expected to hold in the near term, with potential upward movement as May approaches. Fruit maturity levels remain elevated, resulting in faster ripening and shorter shelf life. The size profile continues to skew larger, creating favorable opportunities for jumbo fruit promotions. In California, harvest is steady, with peak volumes focused on medium and large fruit. Growing conditions remain favorable, supporting excellent quality and flavor. Demand is expected to remain strong through the summer, supported by planned promotional activity in the months ahead. The Peru avocado season is beginning, with first arrivals expected in mid-May. Ample promotional opportunities are anticipated throughout the summer, particularly on large and jumbo sizes. Mexico– A 74.6-million-pound harvest was reported last week. The Main Crop is averaging 35.6% dry matter, and sizing continues to peak on 48s. As is typical for this stage of the season, the percentage of Grade 2 fruit is gradually increasing. California– The California harvest season is in full swing, with last weeks harvest volume reported at 13 million pounds. Dry matter is averaging 26%, and the current size curve is peaking on 48s followed by 60s. Fruit quality and shelf life remain excellent at this point in the season, and relatively strong weekly harvest volumes are expected to continue through the summer months. Colombia– Colombia has transitioned to the Traviesa crop, with sizing continuing to focus on small fruit. The majority of fruit is currently being shipped to the European market. Peru– The Peru season is underway, with most fruit currently being harvested for the Europe and Asia markets. Harvest volumes are expected to increase in the coming weeks.
GRAPEFRUIT– Florida: Florida grapefruit is exhibiting good quality, but crop has been impacted by the February freeze. Most growers are finishing out the season this month. California: Star Rubies are currently being harvested. No quality concerns are being reported at this time. Good availability of all sizes. Texas: Texas grapefruit is peaking on large sizes with limited supply of mid and smaller fruit. Offshore: There are arrivals of grapefruit from Turkey, Morocco and Israel. Overall quality is good.
GRAPES– As the Chilean/Peruvian offshore season winds down with inconsistent quality, premium supplies will stay tight and pricing elevated. A quick transition is ahead, with Mexico early and California about three weeks ahead; increased volume through Nogales by late-May should ease markets and support strong summer promotions. There is still a decent supply of offshore grapes on both coasts to cover needs this week.
CANTALOUPE– Continued offshore supply will continue for the next two weeks out of Guatemala and Honduras. Quality remains good. Arizona-California desert region production out of Yuma and the Imperial Valley is early this year due to warm temperatures earlier in the growing season with most growers projecting to start in 1-2 weeks. Early supplies will be dominated by 9ct fruit, with improved availability of 12ct supplies developing later in May. Quality will start strong. Additional supplies should help stabilize prices by late May.
HONEYDEW– Offshore supply is winding down and will continue for the next 1-2 weeks. Continued good supply out of Northern Mexico. Arizona-California desert region production out of Yuma and the Imperial Valley is expected to start in 2 weeks, following cantaloupes. Favourable weather has accelerated the production window. Initial supplies will be dominated by five-count supplies, with stronger availability of both five- and six-count melons developing later in May. Quality will start strong. Gradual volume increases should provide additional relief.
ORANGES– The California Navel season is projected to wrap up in mid- to late May. California Valencia production has started. California Navel: Crop is heavy on large fruit, with supplies peaking on 56/72/48 count. Small sizes, 88/113/138 count, remain tight and will continue to be limited throughout the season. General quality is reported to be good, but there is more choice fruit coming out of pack-outs than typically expected for this time of year. As quality is showing some pressure and harvest slows down, growers with late-lane navels will start to harvest. These late-season navels will help support supply through June at a premium. California Valencias: Some growers have started harvest due to the strong demand for small fruit. Much of this fruit is committed to programs. By law, oranges must be fully mature when harvested, but some may exhibit yellow-green skins. Three levels of maturity must be met before harvesting. 1) Juice content 2) Brix percentage (sugars) 3) Citric acid levels. When necessary, ethylene gas is applied to oranges to change the rind color from yellow or green to orange. The process of applying ethylene gas is known as gassing, or curing. Ethylene gas only helps with the outside skin color, it does not change any other characteristics of the orange. The length of the re-greening process depends on skin color upon harvest. Currently, California Navel oranges are being re-greened 48 to 72 hours. Overall sizing is expected to be large this season, similar to how the navel season started out. Small fruit, 113/138 counts will remain limited. Florida Juice Oranges: Valencia season is winding down, but some growers will have storage fruit through most of May. Imports: Spanish navel season continues with a good supply of top quality fruit. As we move through April, late season Navels from Spain will continue until the end of their season in June, when South African Navels will start. There is also a good supply of Egyptian Valencia’s in the marketplace.
BANANAS– Banana supply will continue to be tight over the coming weeks as global demand increases and production in the tropics steadily declines. Pricing is expected to take a noticeable increase in the upcoming weeks. A combination of virus pressure, low yields, and increasing production costs has placed significant strain on this staple commodity. Overall, banana quality remains very good, and supply is adequate. The key to navigating the coming year will be consistency in supply, consistent ordering patterns, and staying proactive to address any potential issues that could impact the program.
BLOOD ORANGE– Blood orange supplies continue to be very tight; most supplies are going to bagging programs. The size profile is peaking on 72ct and 88ct, with very limited availability on 113ct and 138ct. The blood orange season usually runs from mid-late December to June. Overall quality is excellent with good color; current sugar levels range from 12-13 Brix.
CARA CARA– Sizing is currently peaking on 56/72 counts with smaller sizes more limited. Due to rain-related quality impacts, the season is ending early for most with some larger growers expected to have supply through most of May.
LIMES– After a period of easing markets, lime prices are rising. Mexico: Demand from upcoming holidays has pushed markets up. Due to lack of rainfall in the major growing regions, 200-count and smaller limes make up 79% of available supply. Peak sizes are 250/230/200. Size distribution is 110-2%, 150-5%, 175-14%, 200-20%, 230-29%, and 250-30%. Quality is fair with discoloration and scarring occasionally present; continued high heat has put stress on the fruit and slightly lowered juice content. Delays at the border were expected May 1 as Mexico observes Labor Day. Prices will increase into next week as supply tightens. Colombia: Large sizes (110 and 150-count) are more available. More favorable weather has produced great quality and high juice content. Pricing is trending down, but still higher than Mexican product.
POMEGRANATE– Supplies of offshore fruit continue to arrive from Peru with irregularity. The war in the middle east is limiting product from Turkey and Israel; supplies are unreliable from these areas. Quality has been good, however, pricing from Peru is higher. Please remember, imported case sizing is 8lbs (8-12ct) while California ships 22lb cases (40-44ct).
LEMONS–The 165ct through 200ct lemon market remains elevated, primarily driven by lower available volumes and persistent strong demand. This tightness in supply will persist through June. In July, offshore and Mexican lemons are expected to supplement supply, helping stabilize the market and provide some price relief. California: Districts one and two (the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California) are currently in production. District one has moved past its peak and is expected to finish in late April; quality continues to struggle. Weather has impacted quality, resulting in more choice-grade fruit and limited shelf life. District two production is in full swing and producing a majority of the industries small-size fruit. Increased demand on District 2 lemons is perpetuating an active market as demand outweighs supply.165ct and 200ct sizes are limited; size is dominated by 95ct through 140ct lemons. Expect elevated markets and tight supplies through June. Mexican: Mexican shipments have started in a limited manner and will run through late November. The size profile will be 165ct through 235ct fruit but larger sizes will be available. Expect pricing to be comparable to California fruit until volume rises over the next four weeks. Offshore: Offshore fruit from Chile, Argentina and South Africa will have better availability late-May and run through early December. The size profile will be dominated by large lemons 95ct through 140ct fruit but smaller sizes will be available as well. Expect similar pricing compared to California and Mexican fruit due to better quality.
CHERRIES– The cherry season continues to build strength. Supplies will ship from various regions over the next three to four months. Expect elevated early-season prices as weather-related issues have diminished supplies and reduced upcoming crops in major growing areas. California: The season has just started. High temperatures and recent rainfall have lowered yields. Initial crop estimates predict a 40% reduction in overall supply. Expect elevated markets and an early end to the season in late May. Pacific Northwest: Heavy frost in late March will affect upcoming availability. This season typically begins in late May, but will be delayed until early June. Estimates indicate between 20%-70% crop loss depending on region. Prices will start high due to minimal supplies. The season will run through July. Ontario: In the Niagara region, cherry blossoms are in Stage 4/5. Peak bloom is predicted to occur between April 28 and May 4, 2026 depending on how close the trees are to the cooling effects of Lake Ontario and cold nights. The Niagara Region (Beamsville, Niagara on the Lake, Vineland) are usually the first to start, often seeing the first ripe sweet cherries around June 20–25. Southwestern Ontario (Norfolk, Elgin Counties) follows just a few days later, starting in early July. Eastern Ontario & Grey County often starts a week or two later, with harvest extending into early August. Typically the season has a very short window of about 7-10 days. Michigan: This season is expected to start the week of July 6. Cooler weather is being mitigated by watering fields and using fans to keep frost damage to a minimum. Markets will start off elevated but slowly decline as volume increases. The season will run through August.
GOLD PINEAPPLES– Pineapple supplies are tight as demand increases. Availability of 6ct and 7ct fruit is expected to be very limited, with another 2–3 weeks needed for improvement and much better supplies in June. Brix levels average was 14.3, with 13% of the samples ranging between 12- and 13-degrees Brix. Internal condition has improved as a result of the adjustment in harvest age, leading to better uniformity in internal fruit maturity. Market spot prices are holding steady. Some farms have begun harvesting fruit from natural flowering, which brings important challenges in terms of production and quality. This scenario requires close operational focus; however, our growers are confident in the experience and expertise of our teams to harvest all the fruit while maintaining quality standards. Mexico: There is very little volume being exported out of Mexico with the internal market still higher. Pineapple demand has improved significantly with much less inventory available in the market. Some retailers are starting early with Easter promotions putting additional pressure on the market. Transportation out of Mexico is stable with no issues reported on the roads out of Colima.
STONE FRUIT– California: New crop peaches and apricots have begun in California, with nectarines expected to follow in the next one to two weeks. Plums are projected to start by the end of May. Offshore: The Chilean stone fruit season is nearly finished with imported plums only left in the pipeline.
MANDARIN / CLEMENTINE– Due to limited supply out of California, the import mandarin market is expected to be active until July when supply volume ramps up out of Chile and South Africa. Imports: Morocco: Last inbounds of Nadorcotts are available in the Northeast. Fruit has been reported to be acceptable quality with some soft fruit and skin defects. Availability is winding down, with some importers carrying fruit into early May. Southern Hemisphere: Supplies from Uruguay and Peru will be the first to hit markets in mid-May. Chilean imports are anticipated for June, followed by South Africa. Due to limited supply out of California, the import mandarin market is expected to be active until July when supply volume ramps up out of Chile and South Africa. California: Rain and prolonged fog earlier this year have impacted quality, resulting in softer fruit and growers estimating anywhere between 10-40% fruit drop. Current quality is good but may weaken in the coming weeks. The excess moisture this season led to softer fruit that will impact utilization. Tight supply and active markets are expected from now until the season concludes late-May/early-June.
APPLES– Demand is higher for Washington Royal Gala apples as the Michigan and New York seasons wind down; prices are rising. Demand is strong for Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Ontario: Demand for Royal Gala has been strong; packers are sourcing produce from Quebec to supplement supplies; even so, supplies will run out by June 1st. Honeycrisp continues to see high demand; however, because this variety is more temperamental in long-term storage, volumes typically begin to drop off more sharply by late spring. Ambrosia is established as a staple variety with significant storage volume available for the April–June window. McIntosh and Red Delicious volumes continue to decline as growers replace older orchards with high-density plantings of the varieties listed above. Prices are stable and should hold steady for April, then start rising as supplies dwindle. Washington: We are now in the heart of the storage crop season and the beginning of the import season. The storage crop is smaller than last year and therefore many varieties and packs are tighter than last year. As a result, we are seeing a rising market on many varieties, sizes, and packs, and this trend is expected to continue for the next couple of months. The most significant item that is down this year are Royal Galas. The latest storage report shows that inventory is down over 20% from last year. This item has really tightened up in the last couple of months, and prices are very high for this time of year. Expect Gala availability and pricing to continue to be tight as there is no relief in sight. The other top variety that is short this season is the popular Honeycrisp variety. The Honeycrisp crop was down over last year and has become even tighter over the last month because of strong sales as well as low pack-outs. Overall, Washington is left with a smaller crop than expected and rising prices. With that said, we still have lots of apples to sell. Import apples will also give some relief as we begin to get steadily increasing supplies each week. Although we don’t expect the import crop to lower prices, we are hoping that it stabilizes prices over the next couple of months.
WATERMELON– Melons have great supplies with good quality. Supply out of Mexico has improved and pricing has returned to more normalized levels. Supplies are shipping out East from Labelle, Florida, and Northern Florida will start by the end of the week. May will be a great time to promote melons.
MATURE GREEN FIELD TOMATOES– Round tomato supplies remain limited out of Mexico. The Central Florida season is getting underway; supplies will increase into next week. Rounds: Florida– The South Florida season is winding down. The Central Florida is slowly getting started. We will begin to see additional volume late next week as growers break new fields. While this is great news, short term we will continue to see challenges as current volume continues to be critically low and will be in a “Demand Exceeds Supply” condition with prorates and shorts continuing. Quality is good. Markets will begin to ease over the next few weeks. Contracts are back in place for next week. Mexico– Supplies remain extremely tight due to recent poor weather conditions and less acreage planted this season. Growers in the Jalisco region of Southern Mexico will begin harvesting this weekend. Prices will remain elevated this week. Romas: Florida– Volume is low as the South Florida season winds down. The Central Florida season is underway; expect increased yields in May. Quality is good. Expect lower markets in the coming weeks. Mexico– Volume is low. Demand has increased as many buyers are substituting for round varieties; recent quality has been fair. Growers in the Jalisco region of Southern Mexico have begun limited production; volume will increase over the next few weeks. The Baja season is getting underway. Recent quality has been fair, but improvement is expected from the new regions. Prices are higher due to strong demand. Grape and Cherry: Florida– Supplies are increasing and quality is good. Markets are starting to ease and will fall further in May. Mexico– Baja supplies are increasing. Sonora production is expected to start in the next few weeks. Quality is average. Expect steady pricing over the next two weeks.
WILD FORAGED PRODUCTS:
Wild Mushrooms
** NEW ** St. George Mushrooms: From Bulgaria. Very limited supply. Call for availability and pricing.
Porcini (Cepes): From Oregon. First of the season. Beautiful product. “A” grade and limited “B” grade available. Call for pricing.
Mousseron: Sold out until next shipment. Season just starting. Expensive. Call for prices and availability.
Bluefoot Mushroom: Not available this week.
Cauliflower Mushrooms: From Asia. Good supplies. 2.2lb packs. Call for pricing.
Cultivated Morels: From Asia (Near Tibet). Great product. Regular steady supplies. Pricing up slightly due to freight rates. 5lb or 2.2lb baskets.
Foraged Products
** NEW ** Wild Asparagus: From France. Call for availability and pricing.
Spruce Tips: From Oregon. 1lb. bags. Call for pricing.
Fresh Wild Fennel: From Oregon. 1lb. bags. Call for pricing and availability.
Fresh Ramps: From West Virginia. First of the season. 1lb and 5lb bags. Call for prices.
Fiddleheads: From British Columbia. Slow start, but some product available. 1lb. / 2.2lb. / 5lb bags. Pricing lower. Call for prices.
White Asparagus: From Holland. 5kg cases. “AA” 16-20MM and “AAA’ 26-32MM sizing. Pricing lower this week. Call for prices and availability.
Wild Bears Garlic: From France. 1kg basket. Call for pricing and availability.
Stinging Nettles: From British Columbia or Oregon. Pricing slightly lower. Packed in 1lb bags. Call for pricing.
Miners Lettuce: From British Columbia or Oregon. Pricing slightly lower. Packed in 1lb bags. Call for pricing.
Watercress: From British Columbia or Oregon. Pricing slightly lower. Packed in 1lb bags. Call for pricing.
Spring Onions: From British Columbia or Oregon. Pricing slightly lower. Packed in 1lb bags. Call for pricing.
Spring Onion Flowers: From Oregon. Flowers only. 100g package. Call for pricing.
Truffles
Summer Truffles (Tuber aestivum) $$ : From Italy. Fairly good supplies. Call for more information.
