Spokane Produce

September 20, 2023

Market News

The Coastal California growing regions of Oxnard, Santa Maria and the Salinas Valley move into fall production slightly
ahead of normal harvest schedules. The rollercoaster of summer temperatures will continue this fall across these
growing regions along with the coastal marine layer, especially for fields near the coast. Inland regions will continue to
see hotter temperatures and warm overnight temperatures as we move into fall. Fall weather patterns of less daylight
hours and cooler temperatures will typically bring lower yields for many crops. Celery plantings in the Oxnard region
continue on schedule as growers report some fusarium issues in these early plantings. Cooler temperatures expected
next week should help contain any big fusarium outbreaks. The Huron region continues on track with lettuce, romaine,
and mixed lettuce expected around mid-October. Previous hot temperatures have caused some heat-related damage
to these lettuce stands however the overall crop looks to be in good shape. Plantings in Yuma are now underway for
all crops. The area experienced some severe wind and rain in early September impacting the broccoli, cauliflower, and
cabbage fields. This will affect mainly broccoli with the early harvests set for late November possibly impacted. Other
plantings had to be pushed back as the fields dried out. Growers are reporting that other crops in these desert locals
are looking good at this time.
In the Salinas Valley disease pressure is on the rise as growers harvest these
late-season crops. Growers have been turning the ground over quickly this
season attempting to play catch up from the late start due to the heavy
spring rains and flooding. Growers are on their third crop rotation and the
disease load is building in the soil. Much of the ground is showing the results
of the quick turnaround which may affect yields in these fall fields. The warm,
humid overnight conditions will continue to increase mold, mildew, and
disease pressure including sclerotinia, fusarium, botrytis, and downy mildew
which are caused by a soil-inhabiting fungus. The fungi can persist for long
periods in the soil and is spread by wind or equipment in moist humid
conditions. Growers are emphasizing the use of fungicide sprays to combat
the problem as we move into fall harvesting.
Mildew continues to be the biggest challenge in the leafy greens at the
moment. Insect pressure is also on the rise with the winter rains allowing for
plenty of insect habitats and the increased insect populations. Some seeders
along with fringe and tip burns are also being reported in some romaine and
leaf supplies. Broccoli supplies are showing some beads discoloration along
with a branchy crown. Broccoli yields are expected to be on the lighter side in
the near term due to the effects of warm temperatures and humidity. The
tender spring mix, spinach, and cilantro have also been impacted by the heat
and warm, humid overnight temperatures with some discoloration and
weaker texture currently reported. INSV while not as pervasive as last fall is
starting to show up in some areas of the valley. Growers will be keeping a
close eye on this and trying to stay ahead of any major outbreaks.
As always upcoming weather patterns in California and across the country
will play a crucial role in future supplies and quality as summer harvests roll
on.
Arizona - As this week progresses,
temperatures will gradually cool toward
slightly below normal levels during the latter
half. By Friday afternoon, temperatures
should drop to mid-80s to mid-90s.
California - The morning lows will be in the
upper 40s to upper 50s, while the daytime
highs will be in the low-upper 60s near the
coast. In Santa Clara Valley, maximum
temperatures will be in the mid-70s to low
80s, while in southern Salinas Valley fields,
temperatures will be in the upper 70s to
mid-80s.
Florida - Through Wednesday, temperatures
will be in the upper 80s to low 90s; on
Thursday and Friday, they will be in the
mid-80s to low 90s. Wednesday through
Friday mornings will be mostly in the mid-60s
to mid-70s.
Mexico - Expect primarily dry weather
conditions as a whole through the weekend,
with isolated showers possible.

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