May weather has proven to be challenging for asparagus growers in Michigan. "We experienced cooler temperatures here–a stretch that has lasted longer than usual of eight to nine days and that's decreased the amount of production we're getting," says Sarah Greiner of Todd Greiner Farms. "In our facility, we are strategically managing our raw volumes to continue packing and filling orders without running out of product so that we're able to keep our customers supplied."
This actually followed a very warm start to the season. "We started out with high temperatures and very high production for the first four to five days. Though then they dropped dramatically," says Greiner.
However, the weather is now warming up in Michigan which brings on hope that greater production will pick up with those warmer, steadier temperatures.
Sarah and Todd Greiner of Todd Greiner Farms.
Timing of Michigan season
Typically the Michigan season tries to go until the end of June, though it may sometimes even move into the 1st of July.
As for demand, it feels good–particularly with the tight supply. However there's also been a greater push in the state to promote awareness around this key crop and those initiatives include social media posts and education around how to cook fresh asparagus, when Michigan product is available, and more. "All of this helps keep consumers wanting fresh Michigan product during our season. They're turning to their retailers to get that supply," says Greiner. "As long as we keep production coming in and getting it to customers when they need it and keeping it on the shelf for them to see, that's very important to keep the momentum going through the season. We don't want gaps on shelves without fresh Michigan asparagus there because that's when consumers turn to other things."
All of this is leaving pricing approximately the same or slightly stronger as last year at this time.
For more information:
Sarah Greiner
Todd Greiner Farms
Tel: +1 (231) 873-2828
[email protected]
https://www.toddgreinerfarms.com/