Market prices for broccoli are steady in California markets, according to the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA). The agency’s February 12 report revealed light supplies at the Los Angeles terminal. However, prices still held at $18 per 20 pounds. Meanwhile, baby hybrid broccoli was notching higher at no more than $30 for 20-pound carton offerings. This underlines an intriguing trend of a steady market despite recent floods that swept away some spring crops.
To get a clearer view from an insider, Selina Wamucii corresponded with Jay Angulo, Sales Manager at Baloian Farms, Fresno, CA., for comments.
Jay Angulo says that their broccoli farm does not operate in the Salinas/Monterey area. However, here is his take on how recent floods in Monterey will affect supplies.
”My understanding is that the Salinas area, including Monterey, King City, Watsonville, Castroville and other surrounding areas did see a good amount of rain. Flooding was minimal with some standing water in the fields and along the avenues of the field. The flooding was particularly minimal in comparison to last year’s historic rainfalls and flooding.”
And will this boost prices during the spring market?
”Currently based on the last wave of storms and rainfall, I don’t anticipate a big boost to the spring markets based on a lack of supply, or delay in plantings. ” Says Mr. Angulo. “However, CA is slated for another wave of storms this weekend and beyond. Its shaping up so far to be a wet month so far. We’ll see how the weather treats the industry moving forward.”
Going by the above insight, it too early to say where the spring market is heading, only it’s currently moderate.
A Note on Baloian Farm
Baloian Farm is a fourth generation, vertical-integrated farm that has been growing food crops across California, beginning 1917. The farm cultivates flat sweet Italian red onions, green bell peppers, fresh broccoli, eggplant and other wet vegetables. According to its website, the farm is committed to sustainability through conventional farming and solar energy-driven cold storage. It also practises drip irrigation to save water in such places as the mostly dry San Joaquin Valley, Ca.