ONTARIO LOCAL
** 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.
** SOON ** ASPARAGUS– The cold nights of April 20th and 21st have slowed growth. Warmer weather will continue to encourage growth, however, it cools off again for next week. Leamington / Windsor growers are expected to do an early pick Thursday April 30th with better volumes starting May 4th. Simcoe area growers are anticipating cutting between May 6th – 8th, pending mother nature, with strong availability after Mothers Day.
** 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.
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: Among the major row crop items, romaine along with green and red leaf currently have the best availability. Green leaf and romaine prices are increasing due to tightening supplies. Value added romaine products are now triggered.
Celery: Strong market conditions are expected to continue this week as demand exceeds supply. With Yuma finished and limited availability in Southern California, supplies will remain light.
Cauliflower: Cauliflower supplies are extremely limited due to lower yields, with markets rapidly escalating as Salinas and Santa Maria yields are not meeting current demand. Harvesting has concluded out of the Arizona-California desert region. Salinas and Santa Maria supplies are extremely limited, but production will increase through the month, into May.
Broccoli: Broccoli supplies are extremely limited, with lower yields from recent heat and rain expected to push the market slightly higher into next week. Salinas and Santa Maria yields are not meeting current demand. Wet conditions may contribute to pin rot, cat’s eye, purple casts, and oxidation issues. Minimal insect pressure has been reported (Diamondback moth). Expect elevated pricing and limited availability until production is fully underway in early May.
Brussels Sprouts: Markets continue to increase as supply tightens out of Mexico, leading to overall lower availability. The initial surplus out of Mexico has passed. Yields have been falling.
Grapes: The Chilean/Peruvian offshore season will wrap up over the next three weeks. Grape shipments will transition to Mexican-grown product in mid- to late May. Expect pricing to increase as the offshore season winds down.
Assorted Hot Chili Peppers: Mexican supplies are very tight out of Sinaloa and Sonora. We are starting to see some light numbers out of Coachella, California this week but nowhere near the volume needed to impact markets.
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.
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.
Corn:Markets are starting to ease back as growers break into new fields and have increased availability out of Florida. While in the west, growers are in transition to the desert and quality looks good. We expect to see improved supply and continued improvement on quality over the coming weeks. South Georgia will start production mid-May.
Strawberries: The strawberry market is currently in a demand-exceeds-supply position following recent rainfall in the Salinas and Watsonville growing regions. As a result, markets are elevated; however, a shift to clear weather over the next ten days should increase volume and improve quality across all regions.
Blueberries: Blueberries are currently in a demand-exceeds-supply situation. The marketplace is seeing increased availability of 6-ounce packs with very few pints being packed. Central Mexican production is tapering off, while California is beginning a gradual increase as we move into late April and early May. Georgia has started to come on with light supplies. Markets are trending lower in response.
Blackberries: Supplies are improving, and we expect California to begin showing increased production in the final week of April, with availability out of Santa Maria and Watsonville.
Raspberries: Supplies remain limited from Central Mexico, while California hoop berry production is expected to begin in the next one to two weeks. Demand remains strong.
California Navel Oranges: The California Navel season is projected to wrap up in late June. California Valencia production has started in a limited manner. Expect elevated prices through the transition. California: Small Navel oranges (113ct and 138ct sizes) will be extremely limited through the rest of the Navel season.
Clementine / Mandarin: Mandarin / Clementines remain limited across the whole category, and supply continues to be tight.
Onions: The storage season for onions is ending in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. Fresh-run onions are available in Texas and Southern California. Prices are rising in all regions.
Asparagus: Prices are rising; Mexican jumbo and extra-large sizes are limited. The California / Washington asparagus seasons have begun; supplies will increase by mid-May. Ontario will start early-May.
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: The market is easing for the first time in months, with further stabilization and a larger drop expected after the Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) holiday.
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: All tomato varieties, rounds, romas, grape, cherry and gourmet medley will continue to be at critical supply levels this week, expect to see deep prorates, high prices broadening quality issues.
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
Last week wasn’t without its own set of challenges in California. Light-to moderate rain showers moved through key Central Coast growing regions last Tuesday night and continued through Wednesday morning, impacting harvest activity across Salinas Valley, Santa Maria, and Oxnard. Most growers did not harvest Wednesday, due to wet and muddy field conditions, but those that did harvest took measures to keep boxes and product as clean and dry as possible.
As operations resumed, rain-related quality and shelf-life challenges developed across commodity and value-added items. These issues can include but are not limited to bottom rot due to oversaturated ground, black mold in cauliflower, elevated dirt/mud, mildew pressure, pin rot in broccoli, premature pinking/shortened shelf life, rain damage, pin rot/decay, and decreased yields in strawberries.
The broader row crop market remains tight, and April will close out as a light supply month. The combination of recent rain, prior heat in Salinas, and the finish of Yuma has left little room for play in markets.
Value-added processors are already feeling the pressure, particularly on lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, and celery. Expect lighter weights on lettuce and leaf items, while broccoli and cauliflower may show more discoloration and weather-related defects. Iceberg remains one of the more challenged items. Yields are declining due to increased Fusarium pressure, a soilborne disease favored by warm, wet conditions. Some growers are reporting losses in early plantings, tightening an already snug market. Romaine and leaf items currently have better availability, though markets are expected to strengthen as the week moves on.
Berries are also facing their own transition challenges. Oxnard is now well past peak and trending down seasonally, reducing output from what had been a major source of volume. Santa Maria is ramping up, but cooler weather and smaller berry sizing are keeping yields lighter than hoped. Further north, Salinas and Watsonville started early this season, but recent rain and cooler temperatures have slowed momentum after the initial flush of fruit in early April. The result is a market where multiple regions are producing, but not enough volume is available to fully satisfy demand. Strawberry supplies remain light, and pricing is elevated as buyers compete for limited numbers.
Across the rest of the berries, raspberries remain in a demand-exceeds-supply situation, though some gradual improvement is expected later this month as California hoop production begins. Blueberries are slowly improving as California adds volume, but markets remain elevated until the Pacific Northwest starts in mid-May. Blackberries remain light, though pricing has started to ease slightly.
Tomatoes round out the list of challenged items this week. All tomato varieties, rounds, grape, cherry and gourmet medley continue to be at critically low supply levels again this week. Expect to see deep prorates, high prices, substitutions and broadening quality issues. We do not expect any improvement for another 3 weeks. In Florida, growers have virtually no supplies to sell; new crop out of Central Florida is still a couple weeks away. All growers forecast minimal volume; fair quality is expected. Normal averages won’t be available until early May. In Mexico, supplies are also at extremely low levels. Quality is mixed. Due to critically low supplies, flexibility will be necessary in size and variety to fill orders. Romas are being substituted in many instances as their supply is better. Overall quality is average; We recommend quick rotations to optimize quality due to reduced shelf-life. Prices are at record levels for this time of the year. Some additional supplies will become available in Florida over the next two weeks; however, markets will remain elevated and overall yields low.
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
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. California: The harvesting transition from the Arizona-California desert growing region to the Salinas and Santa Maria Valleys is complete; however, demand far exceeds current supply levels. Additional rainfall earlier this week has further challenged quality and lowered yields. Quality ranges from fair to good; a wide range of weights and densities is being reported. Mexico: Stocks are steady. Quality is good; average weights are lower than California-grown heads. New Mexico: Production started this week in Las Cruces.
ROMAINE / LEAF– Among the major row crop items, romaine along with green and red leaf currently have the best availability. Green leaf and romaine prices are increasing due to tightening supplies. Supplies are moderate at best; most orders are being filled in full. Romaine hearts have tightened. Expect smaller heads and lighter weights, but overall product quality across leaf items remains clean, with minimal tip and fringe burn reported. Value added romaine products are now triggered. Expect elevated prices and limited supplies through early May. Supplies are expected to increase when Mother’s Day demand subsides, leading to lower markets.
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 are rising; Mexican jumbo and extra-large sizes are limited. The California / Washington asparagus seasons have begun; supplies will increase by mid-May. Ontario will start early-May. Mexico: Jumbo and extra-large sizes are extremely limited. Size is heavily skewed toward standard and large spears. Baja production has started in a limited manner and will increase over the next several weeks; harvests in Central Mexico will follow by mid-May. Demand is strong heading into Mother’s Day; supply relief and better quality are anticipated as new crop production increases over the next several weeks. Expect limited availability of jumbo and extra-large sizes, as well as elevated prices, until mid-May. Peru: Production is ongoing in both northern and southern regions. Quality ranges from fair to good. Recent high heat has impacted quality. Feathered tips, dehydration, and flabby spears have been reported. Weather is forecast to cool down over the next week, which should help quality. Supplies remain tight due to strong demand and low Mexican volume. Ontario: The cold nights of April 20th and 21st have slowed growth. Warmer weather will continue to encourage growth, however, it cools off again for next week. Leamington / Windsor growers are expected to do an early pick Thursday April 30th with better volumes starting May 4th. Simcoe area growers are anticipating cutting between May 6th – 8th, pending mother nature, with strong availability after Mothers Day. California/Washington: Asparagus production is expected to increase through April and into May, which should relieve current market conditions. California and Washington harvests are just getting started; recent colder weather in the Pacific Northwest has delayed some crops. Expect steady supplies by the second week of May on both coasts, 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 are limited statewide. The Southern Florida season is expected to finish in mid-May. Production in Northern Florida will start in the next week to 10 days. Despite low volume, quality is very good. Pricing is elevated across all colors and sizes; freeze damage has reduced availability. Coming Soon: The Arizona season will start in early May. California production will begin in mid-May. Texas supplies will start shipping in late June. Ontario will start in July.
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. Supply and quality has improved. Pricing has returned to seasonal normals. 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: Texas cabbage is winding down with some availability until the end of the month. Georgia is starting in a very slow way this week with limited supplies. With Florida finishing early and most Georgia fields coming in later, volume is light and markets are strong.
US CARTON BAKING POTATOES– Storage baking potatoes are available in Idaho and Washington. Large-size potatoes are tightening in Idaho, pushing markets up slightly, especially for 40ct through 80ct count supplies. Expect slightly higher prices. Idaho: Storage crop potatoes are being shipped; Norkotah storage supplies will wind down over the next couple of months. Limited Burbank volume is available; 100ct through 120ct sizes are most plentiful. The gradual shift from Norkotahs to Burbanks will result in fewer 40ct through 80ct potatoes. Packouts are diminishing; pressure bruising is a problem in some late-season storage supplies, but overall quality remains strong. Markets for 40ct through 90ct supplies will rise; prices for smaller sizes are holding steady. Washington: Storage crop Norkotah Potatoes are available. Size is dominated by larger counts; strong demand will push up 40ct through 80ct pricing as demand shifts from Idaho. The quality is very good. Markets are steady but will climb with shifting demand. Colorado, Nevada, Wisconsin: All Colorado sizes are available with good volume; demand for large, 40ct and 50ct supplies is active. Nevada production is running at a slow pace, packing to order. Wisconsin yields are dominated by small, 90ct to 120ct sizes. The quality is good. Prices will increase slightly due to shifting demand.
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– Mexican supplies are very tight out of Sinaloa and Sonora. We are starting to see some light numbers out of Coachella, California this week but nowhere near the volume needed to impact markets. Volumes from the east coast should ramp up late May. Markets will be short this week on several varieties: Jalapeno, Serrano, Anaheim, Habanero, Fresnos, Poblanos, and Shishito Pepper. Georgia’s season will start in early May. Expect limited stocks and elevated prices through early to mid-May when domestic operations are at full capacity.
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, recent rains continue to create quality concerns, with #1 grade remaining tight and a higher share of offgrade fruit. Mexican crossings remain very limited, especially for red peppers, keeping that segment of the market short. Additional supply from both coasts, including Coachella, is expected to help ease pricing soon.
BROCCOLI– Broccoli supplies are extremely limited, with lower yields from recent heat and rain expected to push the market slightly higher into next week. Salinas and Santa Maria yields are not meeting current demand. Georgia has slowed due to a planting gap. Florida is done for the season as well as the Arizona/California desert season. Production continues to ramp up in Salinas and Santa Maria; however, supplies are not yet sufficient to meet current demand. Warmer weather over the past few weeks brought fields forward, leading to supply gaps the rest of this month. Recent showers this past week will affect quality, further reducing volume. Quality ranges from fair to good. Wet conditions may contribute to pin rot, cat’s eye, purple casts, and oxidation issues. Minimal insect pressure has been reported (Diamondback moth). Expect elevated pricing and limited availability until production is fully underway in early May.
CELERY– Strong market conditions are expected to continue this week as demand exceeds supply. With Yuma finished and limited availability in Southern California, supplies will remain light. Quality is above average, with best sizing on larger packs. Value-added items will remain escalated through the month. The Belle Glade, Florida season will continue through the first week of May.
CAULIFLOWER– Cauliflower supplies are extremely limited due to lower yields, with markets rapidly escalating as Salinas and Santa Maria yields are not meeting current demand. Harvesting has concluded out of the Arizona-California desert region. Salinas and Santa Maria supplies are extremely limited, but production will increase through the month, into May. Size is currently small but will gradually increase as the crop ramps up. Recent rain resulted in further issues, delaying some production crews and affecting field conditions. Quality ranges from fair to good; wet conditions may contribute to black mold, mildew, and discolouration. Expect higher pricing, limited supply and strong demand until production can catch up after Mothers Day.
SNOW PEAS / SUGAR SNAP PEAS– Guatemalan snow pea and sugar snap supplies remain steady, while Mexican snow pea availability continues to hold consistent. Sugar snap supplies are expected to tighten heading into next week.
FRENCH GREEN BEAN / BABY SQUASH / BABY PEELED TOP CARROTS– Production out of Guatemala continues to improve, supporting gradually better overall availability. Mexican French bean supply remains limited as cooler weather continues to impact yields. Broader supply conditions are expected to improve as we move into May.
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 is ending in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. Fresh-run onions are available in Texas and Southern California. Prices are rising in all regions. Pacific Northwest: The Idaho and Oregon storage seasons ended last week. Limited quantities of Washington red and yellow onions will continue shipping into May. Growers have started transferring white onions from California to fill orders as needed. Quality is fair to good. Expect pricing to rise over the next one to two weeks. Mexico: Crossings are declining as the Texas and California fresh onion seasons begin. Growers report a wide range of quality; green cast, soft texture, mechanical damage, and thin skins are to be expected with fresh-run onions. Expect higher prices over the next one to two weeks. Texas: Fresh-run yellow, red, and white onions are available. The season is expected to run through mid- to late May, depending on weather. Rain limited harvests last week; weather has improved and production has resumed. 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. Expect prices to rise over the next one to two weeks. California: Harvests in the Southern California desert region have begun in a limited manner. Volume will increase over the next week. Quality is good; fresh-run onions will exhibit higher moisture content, thinner skins, and overall shorter shelf life. It is recommended ordering for quick turns. Current supplies are dominated by medium and jumbo sizes; larger colossal and super colossal sizes are limited but will increase as the season progresses. Northern California harvests are expected to begin the last week of May. Expect prices to rise over the next one to two weeks. Georgia: Vidalia sweet onions are available; the season will run through early September. Red and yellow onions will begin shipping in a limited manner next week. Medium and jumbo sizes will be most plentiful. Quality ranges from good to excellent. Initial pricing is expected to be comparable to California and Texas fresh run.
CORN– Markets are starting to ease back as growers break into new fields and have increased availability out of Florida. While in the west, growers are in transition to the desert and quality looks good. We expect to see improved supply and continued improvement on quality over the coming weeks. 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 increase as supply tightens out of Mexico, leading to overall lower availability. The initial 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– Prices are two‑tiered with ample supplies on the East Coast and low volume in Mexico, increasing West Coast markets. East Coast: Both green and yellow zucchini supplies have increased drastically over the last few weeks out of Florida. Yellow is in lighter supply pushing prices higher. Quality is very good. Georgia growers have started harvesting with light volume; good volume expected in May. Expect low markets to persist for several weeks. West Coast: Mexica supplies are extremely tight due to reduced plantings.
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 will be available out of the Pacific Northwest through at least May this year and we also have Bosc arriving from Argentina and Chile this week. Anjou and red pears are projected to be year-round this year and will be promotable through July. Bartletts have finished out of the Pacific Northwest and there are now new-crop imported Bartletts from Argentina that are available. Pricing and quality are both attractive on this variety and expect them to remain promotable for the next several months. Overall, the pear category will be very promotable the next several months. The California Bartlett pear season will start in early July.
BLACKBERRIES– Supplies are improving, and we expect California to begin showing increased production in the final week of April, with availability out of Santa Maria and Watsonville.
BLUEBERRIES– Blueberries are currently in a demand-exceeds-supply situation. The marketplace is seeing increased availability of 6-ounce packs with very few pints being packed. Central Mexican production is tapering off, while California is beginning a gradual increase as we move into late April and early May. Georgia has started to come on with light supplies. Markets are trending lower in response. Florida/Georgia: The season is getting a late start due to earlier weather events. Fields north of Orlando have reported an estimated 40–50% crop damage. Rainfall temporarily halted harvesting earlier in the week. Operations are expected to resume later this week. Limited production will begin in Georgia next week. Markets remain elevated; overall supplies are tight. Mexico: High temperatures persist, some reaching 95 degrees. Volume has increased only 10% since last week. Yields are expected to tighten over the next two weeks. Quality is good; some early breakdown has been reported. Expect rising prices and tight stocks. California’s San Joaquin Valley: Conventional harvesting is set to begin in late April/early May. Ample volume and great quality are anticipated. Pacific Northwest: The Pacific Northwest season is expected to begin ramping up by mid-May.
RASPBERRIES– Supplies remain limited from Central Mexico, while California hoop berry production is expected to begin in the next one to two weeks. Demand remains strong. Mexico: Central Mexico will remain the primary supply driver through the end of April. Volumes are expected to remain steady, seeing warmer temperatures in Mexican growing regions. Baja: Supplies remain steady and are expected to continue through June. California: Volumes will begin to increase, becoming the main supply source by May, with peak production anticipated in late May to early June.
STRAWBERRIES– The strawberry market is currently in a demand-exceeds-supply position following recent rainfall in the Salinas and Watsonville growing regions. As a result, markets are elevated; however, a shift to clear weather over the next ten days should increase volume and improve quality across all regions. Santa Maria/Oxnard: The recent rain has made it difficult for growers to access fields and harvest product. It will take several days for conditions to dry sufficiently for crews to begin stripping and cleanout. Overall quality is good; some bruising and white shoulders have been reported. Size ranges from small-medium to medium (23 to 26 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell). Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; We recommend ordering for quick turns. Prices will remain elevated for the next 7-10 days. Salinas/Watsonville: Plants are being stripped of fruit after prior rains, significantly reducing harvestable berry counts per plant this week. Overall quality is average; some defects will include decay, pin rot, and water damage. Size currently ranges from small to medium (22 to 27 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell). Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; We recommend ordering for quick turns. Expect high markets 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– Mango supply conditions are beginning to tighten as overall availability declines while demand continues to increase. Projected arrivals are estimated at 2.4 million boxes of rounds from all origins. Supply is coming out of Mexico and Guatemala. The main varieties available are Tommy Atkins and Ataulfo (Honey), with limited volumes of Haden. Demand is increasing across all channels, supported by Cinco de Mayo promotions. As supply tightens and demand strengthens, pricing levels are trending higher. Warmer-than-usual weather across the region has reduced available volumes, and the industry anticipates continued supply constraints in the coming weeks. Ataulfo variety availability remains limited.
AVOCADO– Supply conditions remain steady, supported by continued strong harvest volumes out of Mexico. Demand is holding at elevated levels, driven by significant promotional activity across the industry, keeping the market balanced and prices stable week over week. As the Mexican season moves closer to its conclusion, fruit maturity remains high, which is resulting in shorter ripening windows and reduced shelf life. The size curve continues to trend larger, creating promotional opportunities on jumbo fruit. California production is now in full swing, with robust harvest volumes reported this week. The size profile is peaking on medium and large fruit and is expected to remain consistent through most of the season. Overall fruit quality from California remains excellent in both appearance and flavor, and demand is anticipated to stay strong through the spring and into early summer. Mexico: A 80.3-million-pound harvest was reported last week. The Main Crop is averaging 35.5% dry matter, and sizing continues to peak on 48s. As is typical for this point in the season, the percentage of Grade 2 fruit is gradually increasing. California: The California harvest season is in full swing, with last week’s harvest volume reported at 12.7 million pounds. Dry matter is averaging 26%, and the current size curve is peaking on 48s then 60s. Rain could put a damper on harvest in some regions this week. Fruit quality and shelf life are excellent. Colombia: Colombia has transitioned to the Traviesa crop, with sizing focused 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– The Chilean/Peruvian offshore season will wrap up over the next three weeks. Grape shipments will transition to Mexican-grown product in mid- to late May. Expect pricing to increase as the offshore season winds down. Offshore: The Peruvian/Chilean green and red grape seasons will end in mid-May. Although stocks will tighten and markets will rise, suppliers do not expect any supply gaps between the offshore and Mexican seasons. Mexico: The harvest in the small early Jalisco growing region will get underway in late-April. The powerhouse region of Sonora, which accounts for roughly 80% to 90% of Mexico’s export volume is projected to start harvesting around mid-May. Expect elevated pricing as the season begins, then markets will gradually decrease. California: The early season will start in late spring (Mid-May) in the hot, southern desert climate of the Coachella Valley. By mid-July, the Coachella harvest finishes up, and production physically moves north into the San Joaquin Valley. The San Joaquin Valley carries the industry through the late summer and fall. Thanks to late-ripening varieties and highly advanced cold-storage techniques, California grapes remain available well into December.
CANTALOUPE– The offshore melon season is winding down. Central America: Offshore production is hitting its final peak and will wind down through May. Sizing has been skewed larger, with a more balanced 9- to 12-count mix expected to develop. Quality is excellent with strong eating characteristics. Markets are firm as offshore supplies taper ahead of the California / Arizona start dates. Arizona-California Desert Region: Production is expected to begin by early to mid-May. Favourable weather has pushed the start earlier than normal. 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– The offshore melon season is winding down. Central America: Supplies have increased as new production comes online. The offshore season will wind down through May ahead of seasonal transitions. Markets are trending lower as offshore and Mexican supplies are plentiful. Mexico: Production will continue into June. Supplies are increasing and will remain an important bridge as the offshore season ends. Markets are easing as new crop supplies come online. Arizona-California Desert Region: Honeydew is expected to start shipping in mid-May. 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 in a limited manner. California Navel: California Navel oranges are heavily skewed to larger sizes, peaking on 56ct and 72ct. Smaller sizes (113ct and 138ct) are very limited and expected to stay tight through the remainder of the season and into the Valencia transition. Flexibility will be needed, with substitutions into larger fruit likely. 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; sugar levels range from 10 to 12 Brix. Late-season Navel varieties will remain available until mid- to late May. California Valencias: Suppliers have begun shipping limited quantities; the season is expected to ramp up in late April. Large fruit (56ct and 88ct) will be limited to start the season. Early production will require no gassing as color is ideal; expect gassing in July/August when Valencias start to regreen from high heat. Quality is very good; sugar levels range from 11 to 14 Brix. Florida Juice Oranges: Limited availability on small California navels has pushed demand for Florida juice oranges. Valencia season is winding down, but supplies are available with peak sizing on 80/100/125 counts. Florida groves experienced freezing temperatures earlier this year which has affected the crops. Growers are anticipating a shorter season with limited availability. 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 and is expected to trend larger as the season progresses. Similar to navels, smaller sizes, 88/113/138 counts remain tight and will continue to be limited. The season is winding down but larger growers expect to have supply through most of May.
LIMES– The market is easing for the first time in months, with further stabilization and a larger drop expected after the Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) holiday. Mexico: The Cinco de Mayo holiday will spike demand this week. Size is skewed toward smaller fruit; 175-count and larger stocks are limited. Excessive heat is expected in Mexico, which may stress the crop. Quality and shelf life are strong as new crop production ramps up. There are minimal reports of oil spotting and skin breakdown. Small sizes offer the best value, while large sizes (110s/150s) remain tight through summer, with imports expected to finish in May. Colombia: Supplies are ample across all sizes. Quality is strong; juice content is higher than limes coming from Mexico. Pricing is less reactive to demand or supply changes with some sizes now more expensive than Mexican limes.
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– Lemons are gaining strength in the market. California: District 1 is ending, and early District 2 fruit is moving steadily due to solid quality. Availability is tightening, especially for smaller sizes, while demand for 140s and below continues to increase. 115s are starting to catch momentum. Pricing continues to gradually firm. Import Lemons: Offshore supplies from South Africa are entering the marketplace. Supply volume out of Chile and Argentina is anticipated to be similar to last season, with a competitive market. First arrivals out of Argentina are anticipated for late May, with Chilean arrivals to follow in June.
CHERRIES– The cherry season has begun in North America. 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.
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.
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. Crownless 8ct and 10ct sizes remain tight. Brix levels average was 13.6, with 25% of the samples ranging between 12- and 13-degrees Brix. The exchange rate between the Costa Rican Colon and the US dollar continues to drop giving lower returns to growers. It is the lowest rate since 2007. Conflict in the Middle East is affecting bunker fuel (ocean going vessel) costs impacting pricing. Overall, fruit supplies are expected to remain tight through the end of April into May. 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.
MANDARIN / CLEMENTINE– Mandarin / Clementines remain limited across the whole category, and supply continues to be tight. 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: Nadorcotts are available in the Northeast from Morocco and Spain. Fruit has been reported to be acceptable quality with some soft fruit and skin defects. Available supplies should run through mid-April, pending demand. 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. California: Supplies are tightening steadily, while demand remains consistently strong. California fruit is setting the standard with reliable quality and performance, clearly outpacing imports. With global supply shifts directing more attention toward domestic product, California will remain the primary source until Peruvian fruit arrives. Staying ahead of this market will be key, as availability continues to narrow.
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 Nova Scotia and Quebec to supplement supplies. 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 Gala’s. 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, we are left with a smaller crop than expected and rising prices. With that said, there are plenty of apples to sell and select promotional opportunities on some of the varieties. 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– Watermelon supplies continue picking up out of Northern Mexico. There is good volume of 6 count personal size minis in Nogales as well. Nogales will continue to pick up in volume. Southern Florida is also going with limited volume, and supplies will continue to pick up. The end of April and into May will be a good time to promote watermelons.
MATURE GREEN FIELD TOMATOES– Tomato supplies remain extremely tight. Florida is transitioning between districts with limited harvest days, and Mexico crossings are very light. Recent freezing temperatures in Mexico are keeping availability critically low and markets elevated. Rounds– Florida: Ruskin/Palmetto shippers are starting very slowly; harvest days are sporadic to start the season. Mexico: Freezing temperatures have impacted production. Crossings have been very limited the past two weeks; round availability is essentially nonexistent. Jalisco is expected to start rounds May 1 and Baja Mexico late next week. Volume is expected to remain very light thru mid-May. Romas– Florida: Immokalee supplies are slowing down with limited first picks remaining; most growers will be on 2nd and 3rd picks next week. Supplies are very snug due to reduced yields and crop transition North. Mexico: Crossings into the US have been very limited; recent arrivals have been fair quality at best. Jalisco is expected to start romas next week. Baja Mexico is beginning in a light way; freeze impacts are expected to keep markets elevated through May and potentially into June. Grape and Cherry– Florida: Supplies are slowly improving. Markets are trending lower and are expected to continue to ease into May. Mexico: Baja Mexico supplies are increasing in availability as the region was not impacted by recent cold event Summary: Rounds remain critically short, driven by a Florida district transition and extremely limited Mexico crossings. Markets remain elevated; meaningful availability is not expected until mid-May; potentially into June. Maintain order flexibility and rotate product quickly.
WILD FORAGED PRODUCTS:
Wild Mushrooms
** SOON ** St. George Mushrooms: From Bulgaria. Call for availability and pricing.
** NEW ** Porcini (Cepes): From Oregon. First of the season. Beautiful product. “A” grade and limited “B” grade available. Call for pricing.
Mousseron: From Bulgaria. Season just starting. Outstanding quality. Expensive. Call for prices.
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
** SOON ** Wild Asparagus: From France. Call for availability and pricing.
** NEW ** 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 White Asparagus: From Holland. 5kg cases. “AA” and “AAA’ 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.
