The California colored potato crop looks to be starting on time this season. "We typically plan on starting in the first week of May and this year, we'll get going on May 5th out of the district here in Kern County," says John Clerou of Mazzei Franconi Co. LLC.
As far as acreage, it is similar to last season and in all, the region will supply fresh crop potatoes through the middle of July. "It's a short deal–10 weeks–but we ship a lot of potatoes in that time frame," says Clerou.
This follows a good growing season in the region for red, white, and yellow potatoes, one that saw a mild winter through February with cool temperatures and rains in March. While the rains were needed, they did slow down the crop somewhat earlier in the season–at the time, it looked as though it would start early this year. However, those two weather developments pushed back the start to match the historical timing for the crop.
Switching from storage crop
Demand is anticipated to be particularly strong for yellow fresh crop potatoes, a variety that continues to see growth in demand. "A lot of the storage states store their colored potatoes but they don't quite hold up and are seeing lesser pack outs. The markets are really looking for new, fresh potatoes at this time of year," says Clerou, adding that the storage regions are starting to wind down supply as well. "So it's shaping up to look like pretty good demand."
Along with storage states and California, Florida is also underway with its new crop potatoes.
All of this means pricing is anticipated to be relatively similar to last year at this time. "The price out of Florida has been good for new crop potatoes and we anticipate the same thing here once we get started," says Clerou.
Looking ahead, following the May 5th start, which will see light volumes to start, heavier production should be going by Memorial Day.
For more information:
John Clerou
Mazzei Franconi Co. LLC.
Tel: +1 (661) 366-5721
[email protected]
https://www.mazzeifranconi.com/