WEATHER UPDATE
A series of storm systems move into California with winds, rain, and cooler temperatures through the week. The Southwestern Desert regions will see a chance of rain, strong winds and cooler temperatures as these storm systems pass to the north. Cold air behind these systems will likely bring light lettuce ice to the region over the weekend. Seasonal to above average temperatures look to continue across Mexico through the week into next. In Florida, cold air behind an exiting storm system will bring much cooler temperatures following the recent warm temperatures across the state.
FREIGHT UPDATE
California and Yuma trucks remain plentiful again this week. Washington apple trucks are plentiful as well. Idaho potato and onion trucks remain steady. The national average on diesel rose slightly again this week and is currently at 3.076 per gallon. California prices remained steady this week and are now at 3.779 per gallon. Crude oil prices increased slightly as well and are currently at 56.25 per barrel.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Apples: Granny and Golden apples continue to be lacking in availability. Chilean imported Galas set to arrive in 2-3 weeks.
Berries (Strawberries): Rain in California , diminishing supplies in both Florida and Mexico
Cauliflower: Cauliflower yields continue to be extremely short. Recent cold weather has caused the slow growth process and quality issues.
Citrus (Limes): Less inbounds coming from Mexico, and rain in the growing regions with high demand has driven prices up this week. Active prices across the board on all sizes.
Onions: Demand active in Northwest region. Markets are on the rise.
Potatoes: Russet 60 count and larger limited out of Idaho
TRANSITIONS & TEMPERATURE
Lettuce Leaf: Huron will begin production approximately late in March.
Lettuce Iceberg : Huron will begin production approximately the third week in March.
Berries (Strawberries): Strawberries will be fully Californian by the end of March according to most estimates. Salinas and Watsonville areas may be online as soon as the first week of April in a light way.
Grapes (Green): Import season will likely finish mid to late April and we will transition into Mexican and Domestic production.
Grapes (Red): Export season is expected to last another 4-5 weeks. We will transition into Mexican and Domestic product late April.
Berries (Blueberries): Florida production has begun and numbers should improve in the next few weeks.
A Peak at Peak Seasons
Berries (Strawberries): Mexico and Florida are moving out of peak production . California should be producing good numbers barring further adverse weather by the end of March if not sooner
