Spokane Produce

May 20, 2026

Market News

As we move through the back half of May, the market remains active across
several high-volume categories. Cooler coastal weather continues to limit
strawberry harvest yields, while avocados and small lemons are facing
tightening supply and rising costs. Row crop markets are mixed, with some items
improving and others still under pressure from disease and reduced yields.
Avocados are entering a volatile stretch as Mexico’s main crop moves into its
final seven weeks. Active grower participation has declined, and many growers
are delaying harvests in anticipation of stronger late-season pricing. Field costs
have climbed quickly over the past two weeks as packers compete for limited
fruit. APEAM estimates roughly 330 million pounds remain in Michoacán, with
about 250 million pounds expected to ship to the U.S. That equates to
approximately 36 million pounds per week, well below current U.S. consumption
of more than 60 million pounds weekly. California is increasing but only
contributing around 13-15 million pounds per week. Expect costs to continue
trending higher until Flor Loca and Peru begin adding volume in July. Flexibility
on size and country of origin will be important.
Small lemons remain extremely tight. The 140ct and smaller market is elevated
due to limited availability and steady demand, with tight supplies expected to
continue through June. District One is winding down, while District Two is
carrying the majority of domestic supply. The overall size profile is still
dominated by 95ct through 115ct fruit, leaving 140ct through 200ct limited.
Offshore lemons are expected to begin shipping late June into early July, while
Mexican crossings have started in a limited way and should increase over the
next 3-4 weeks.
Row crop supply has improved overall, and temperate weather has helped keep
quality strong. Lettuce and broccoli markets are easing, while romaine and green
leaf remain active. Romaine continues to see pressure from INSV and high core,
which are reducing yields. Green leaf supply is manageable with support from
Mexico, but numbers are being watched closely. Broccoli and cauliflower have
improved after a tough stretch, with better yields and quality. Celery remains
tight, though Oxnard and Santa Maria supply is adequate for expected demand.
Spinach, spring mix, and heritage items are in good shape, while arugula is still
showing some residual yellowing and mildew pressure but generally remains
within spec.
Strawberry supplies remain very light as cool, inconsistent weather continues
across the California growing regions. Growers are seeing one or two clear days
followed by several days of overcast skies and colder temperatures, limiting
harvest yields. A cooling trend is expected again mid-week and will likely
continue into next week. Demand remains strong, open market options are
limited, and shippers are focusing on contracts and previous commitments.
Advance orders are strongly recommended, with possible fill rates and loading
delays expected again this week.
Overall, school demand winding down over the next few weeks should help take
some pressure off the market, but it will not be enough to fully offset the limited
supplies. Planning ahead will remain important, especially where open-market
availability is limited.

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