Innovating Through Vertical Farming for Premium Produce
In the heart of California, Oceanside Pole is gearing up to launch its much-anticipated pole-grown tomato season, promising retailers and consumers alike a taste of unparalleled freshness and quality. Situated across 700 acres in California, supplemented by an additional 160 acres in Mexico, Oceanside Pole stands as the sole west-of-the-Mississippi operation specializing in pole-grown tomatoes, exclusively distributed by Oppy.
The upcoming season, commencing the week of June 24, holds high expectations with projections set at 2.1 million cases of round tomatoes and 1.2 million cases of romas. This optimism stems from favorable weather conditions and a robust season outlook. What sets Oceanside Pole apart is its innovative cultivation method, elevating tomatoes above ground level to optimize airflow. This approach not only enhances tomato quality but also ensures they ripen naturally on the vine, attaining a juicy and robust flavor profile. Harvested up to 24 times per plant on average, each tomato is meticulously hand-selected at optimal ripeness to maintain consistent quality standards.
Mark Smith, the director of sales and strategy at Oceanside Pole, highlights the distinctive attributes of their tomatoes: “Our method guarantees fruit with unmatched brix levels, robust flavor, extended shelf life, and a pristine slicing texture.” The commitment to quality extends to logistics, with a streamlined process ensuring tomatoes are picked, packed, shipped, and delivered to retailers within a swift 24-hour timeframe.
The peak volume is anticipated from late August through October, perfectly aligning with the Thanksgiving season demand surge. To cater to diverse retail needs, Oceanside Pole offers an array of packaging options including 22-pound two-layer, 25-pound volume fill, 15-pound single-layer boxes, RPCs (Reusable Plastic Containers), and a 5-pound club pack. This versatility underscores their dedication to meeting specific market requirements, offering custom pack styles as needed.
James Galindo, a senior sales representative, has been chronicling the season’s progression through Oppy’s video series titled “Reports from the Field.” Initiated in January, these monthly updates provide an insider’s view into the intricate processes involved in cultivating Oceanside Pole tomatoes. “My goal is to capture the entire journey from start to finish in a concise, accessible manner,” says Galindo. These videos not only enhance transparency but also serve as educational tools, showcasing the meticulous care and dedication integral to each tomato’s journey from vine to table.
As the season unfolds, viewers can follow Galindo’s video series to gain a comprehensive understanding of the harvesting and packing phases. These videos serve as a testament to Oceanside Pole’s commitment to quality and innovation, surpassing traditional updates with immersive insights and firsthand perspectives.
