Strawberry

Mon, July 31st, 2023

Dear Ole Tyme Produce Customers:

STRAWBERRIES: We are seeing a steady decline in berry production out of all growing regions. We are in a demand exceeds supply situation. Here are a few of the reasons we are seeing this scarcity of supply.

Cooler than average early spring temperatures had severely reduced bee activity and the pollination process.
Fewer flowers pollinated equates to lower yields at a later date.
Daytime temperatures were very low through May and into July holding plants back.
When plants finally came on in early July many growers were having to throw down a good amount of sub-par fruit with high color and moisture damage due to a persistent thick marine layer.
The natural plant cycles are gradually coming to an end further reducing yields.
Daylight hours are reducing as we move into Fall.
We should see some relief as the Fall crop should begin to produce lightly in the second week of August and gradually build higher yields as September approaches.
Markets are elevated in the $18.00 to $21.00 dollar range with very limited availability.

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative or our Customer Service team.

Thank you,

Ole Tyme Produce