UNPLEASANT WEATHER CONDITIONS CONTINUE

TO PLAGUE LETTUCE GROWING REGIONS

Extreme cold temperatures in January and now record heat (upper 90’s) in Yuma and Imperial growing areas are causing quality problems with lettuces.  Internal burn, early decay, blister, peel and lighter than normal weights are causing major issues in these crops.  Romaine is showing tip burn, peel and discoloration as well.

Harvesting has begun early in hopes of avoiding more problems and smaller quantities.  The best quality is being selected but yields are looking low and harvest costs will be increasing.  Weights are also running very light due to early picking and past weather patterns.  Presently shippers are looking to other growing areas to help supplement the lettuce crops. 

Due to the heat, most crops including broccoli and cauliflower are being harvested at an earlier stage to minimize quality issues.  It is anticipated that more volume will be coming out of the Huron area as temperatures are mild and lettuce is growing at faster pace there.  Please look for this to be the case for the next two to three weeks.

Please continue to visit this page for more current updates.