Winter Weather
Winter weather, place of origin and the simple rules of supply and demand combine to create rapidly changing scenarios that result in quality issues as well as price increases to many produce staples at this time of year. The annual produce transition that occurs in the weeks following Thanksgiving saw a series of weather related events that are influencing the current status of a variety of vegetables. Initially, warm weather in Yuma, Arizona and Northern Mexico allowed for successful planting of crops-to the point that several crops arrived ahead of schedule. Lower temperatures than slowed down field growth and created the first 'gaps' of the season. Now, frost and freeze has extended the gaps, resulting in a lack of supply and subsequent higher prices. The following crops are on the rise:
- Broccoli/Broccoli Crowns - 18 count Broccoli in high teens and Broccoli Crowns are in extremely low supply.
- Cauliflower - 16 count case.
- Celery - 24 count cases.
- Cucumber/English Cucumbers
- Lettuces - All major varieties-Iceberg, Butter, Romaine, Romaine Hearts, Red and Green Leaf
- Green Bell Peppers
- Italian/Yellow Squash
- Spinach - Bunched Spinach, 24 count case.
- Green Onions - 48 count case.
- Cilantro - Usually frost hardy, 30 count case.
Note - While frost conditions usually damage certain delicate vegetables, the same cannot be said for the current artichoke crop. Artichokes are harvested 'frost-kissed' at this time of year. Frost causes the outer leaves of the artichoke to turn brown. While the brownish color may not look appealing, frost intensifies and enhances the overall flavor of the artichoke. Once cooked, this color disappears, resulting in a delicious green artichoke.
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