Markon First Crop (MFC) Lettuces are limited in the desert growing region; Markon Best Available is being substituted as needed.

Over the past several days, the Arizona/California desert growing region has experienced strong winds, with gusts of up to 30 mph, followed by cold mornings with lows in the upper 20°s to mid-30°s. Although winds are expected to subside, their impact combined with freezing morning temperatures, is already being felt.

Commodity and value-added lettuce and tender leaf items are most sensitive to the above-mentioned conditions and are now exhibiting some of the following after-effects:

• Dehydration
• Decreased case weights
• Dull appearance/loss of vibrancy
• Elevated levels of dirt
• Epidermal blistering and peeling
• Shortened shelf-life potential
• Wind damage
• Yellowing leaves

Lettuce ice conditions remain in the forecast through the middle of next week, making this cold snap a significant event that will impact desert region supplies for several weeks to come. Markon inspectors are working with growers to select the best product for Markon orders.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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