News and Stories

December 29, 2014
 
Today marks the fourth consecutive morning that lettuce ice has developed on various lettuce and tender leaf crops in the Arizona/California desert growing region. The most severe ice so far was recorded on Sunday, December 28 after morning temperatures dipped into the upper 20s-to-low 30s. This morning’s temperatures are warmer, but were still below the mid-thirties. Harvesting operations will still be delayed until at least 10:00 - 11:00AM (MST).

More ice is expected tomorrow, December 30 before a particularly cold trough approaches the desert region in the afternoon, bringing with it gusty winds up to 45 mph and a possibility of rain on Wednesday, December 31. Ice returns on Thursday and intensifies on Friday through Sunday, January 4.

Freeze-related defects from severe ice will develop quickly on lettuce crops in particular. Plant growth will also slow dramatically, increasing the chances of a supply gap developing a few weeks from now.

Markon inspectors will be monitoring field conditions and quality closely in the coming days and will update further as needed.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

John Galvez
Quality Assurance
markon.com

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