California cauliflower and broccoli remains steady, but significant weather disruptions have caused pronounced price fluctuations in the market.
As reported by freshplaza, the California cauliflower and broccoli markets are experiencing stronger pricing due to supply variability caused by weather challenges. Despite these fluctuations, the overall supply of cauliflower remains comparable to the same period last year. However, excessive rain during planting has led to more pronounced peaks and valleys in supply.
Natalie Macedo, the cauliflower sales and commodity manager for Coastline Family Farms, notes that current supply is primarily coming from Monterey County, where conditions have been generally good despite ongoing weather challenges. Other regions contributing to the cauliflower supply include Mexico, the Eastern coast of the U.S., and parts of Canada. The cauliflower season in Monterey County started on time in mid-February, following the conclusion of the season in Mexico, and is expected to shift back to near Mexico and the Imperial Valley around mid-November.
Rising Demand and Market Dynamics
The demand for cauliflower has been steady with a recent boost that is helping lift the market. Macedo expresses optimism that this demand surge will continue, which has resulted in higher market prices than typically seen during the summer. “Last week, an abundance of supply caused prices to drop, while this week’s lighter supplies have driven prices back up, reflecting a volatile pricing environment,” Macedo explains.
In the broccoli sector, production in the Salinas Valley began on schedule this season in early April. Tina Gularte, sales and commodity manager for broccoli at Coastline Family Farms, reports that broccoli supply in the Salinas Valley has remained consistent over the past several weeks. However, a decline in supply is expected in the upcoming weeks due to lighter plantings. With production starting up in other areas, acreage and plantings in Salinas Valley are intentionally reduced as volume shifts to Canada and the Eastern regions.
Broccoli Production Across Regions
Mexico, a year-round producer of broccoli, accounts for nearly 75 percent of the volume in the U.S. Canada is set to start its broccoli production in mid-June, running until October, while the East Coast typically runs from June to November.
These shifting production areas highlight the dynamic nature of the vegetable market and the importance of strategic planning to manage supply and meet demand. As growers and industry stakeholders navigate these challenges, they continue to adapt to ensure a steady supply of high-quality vegetables for consumers.
