News and Stories

FROM THE FIELDS: Minor Harvesting Delays in the Desert Region

December 30, 2016

 

Another 0.20”-0.50” of scattered rainfall was recorded in the Arizona/California desert growing region on Sunday, January 1. Most harvesting crews for desert row crop items were scheduled later this morning, but are now working with only minor delays attributed to wet field conditions.

 

A small chance for another 0.10” of rain remains in the forecast for today and Tuesday, January 3, but daytime temperatures are expected to rise from the low 60s to upper 60s and overnight lows will be in the low 40s, decreasing the likelihood of lettuce ice developing. The next chance for rain will be January 7-9 as another series of cold troughs are expected to pass through.

 

Rain-related issues have already been observed in many lots and may continue to be a concern in upcoming supplies. These issues include, but are not limited to:

  • Bottom rot
  • Decay
  • Elevated dirt/mud in finished packs
  • Mildew pressure
  • Premature pinking in some value added items
  • Shortened shelf life potential

Markon inspectors will be monitoring field conditions, supply and quality of commodity, value-added lettuce, tender leaf, and other desert row crop items. We will continue to update as needed.

 

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

 

John Galvez

Quality Assurance

markon.com

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