TOMATOES
Roma production is going to be lower in NC over the next couple weeks. TN is expected to improve over the next few weeks. Mexican production and quality is very inconsistent. Market is high and looks to stay raised for at least a couple more weeks.
All regions are much lighter than anticipated with low yields and mixed quality from too much rain throughout July and early August. Volume and quality should improve in September, but will be tight for the next 7-10 days. Market is high.
Grape crops are slowing down with the oldest plantings completely finished after the full moon last week. New plantings have started but with some cooler temperatures this week will be slower to volume than normal. Quality is good. Mexican supply is very light.
VEGETABLES
Squash production will be a little slower this week. High temperatures last week caused some bloom drop, which is expected to reduce yields in the next 2 weeks. We do have a new block starting at the end of the week, which should help overall supply.
Cucumber production has slowed some due to last week’s high temperatures. Mexico supply has also eased, putting some pressure on the market. We have started harvesting in North Carolina, and Michigan is beginning to pick as well, which should help keep market conditions fairly stable.
Bean supply will remain fairly tight. High heat has reduced yields across the eastern growing regions. We are hoping cooler weather this week in North Carolina and Virginia will improve growing conditions and boost production next week. Michigan is expected to begin harvesting within the next week, which should help ease market conditions. As long as the heat doesn’t persist, we expect supply to gradually improve over the next couple of weeks.
Bell pepper remains firm. Our North Carolina farms are picking well with good quality, but overall supply is still not enough to soften the market. Expect the market to remain firm until Michigan begins harvesting in the next 1–2 weeks, bringing additional supply.
