The Arizona/California desert has been experiencing gusty winds and below-average temperatures throughout the week. This morning, some of the colder, wind-protected areas saw lettuce ice develop, causing minor harvesting delays. More ice is expected tomorrow, Saturday, November 9.

At this point, the strong winds and cool temperatures are what are impacting desert row crops the most, dehydrating the crop, and slowing plant growth significantly. No immediate impact on quality is expected from these two days of sporadic lettuce ice, but Markon inspectors will be monitoring supplies closely and will continue to update with any developments.

Expect tight supplies for commodity and value-added broccoli, lettuce, and tender leaf items for the next two to three weeks as more growers ramp up production in the region with crops that are well behind schedule.

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