Spokane Produce

April 23, 2025

Market News

The roller coaster of temperatures, typical of spring, looks likely to
continue across the coastal California fields as we move through April.
As low pressure systems pass mainly to the north, they bring cooler
temperatures along with a heavy marine layer and drizzle to the fields.
The cooler temperatures will slow growth rates while increasing mold,
mildew and disease pressure in these stands.
Broccoli production is currently showing some purple cast in the cold
temperatures. Some customers have been inquiring about the cause of
the purple cast on the crowns. Purpling can occur in broccoli under
specific growing conditions. The Physiological explanation is the plant’s
management of nitrogen (fertilizer). There are a few things that can
interfere with the plant’s ability to manage internal nitrogen. Cold
weather is the number one cause of purpling in broccoli. Extreme
moisture and heat can also lead to purpling along with the lack or
excess of available soil nitrogen. All of these conditions cause the
enzymatic activity to slow down in the plant cell. The plants start to
make red and yellow chlorophylls because they take less energy to
produce. These chlorophylls are what give the plants their purple cast.
The plant is simply being more efficient.
It is important to note that quality, shelf life and taste are not affected
by this phenomenon. While cooking the bluish tint will fade and the
broccoli will brighten with no impact on food safety or flavor.

July 20, 2023

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