California cantaloupe growers expect a delayed but promotable season

Recent heavy rainfall was a godsend to The Golden State’s cantaloupe producers, delaying planting but also providing a welcome break from growing under drought restrictions for this year’s crop.
Recent heavy rainfall was a godsend to The Golden State’s cantaloupe producers, delaying planting but also providing a welcome break from growing under drought restrictions for this year’s crop.
(Photo: Seafames50, Adobe Stock)

California cantaloupe farmers are overjoyed with the amount of rainfall received this past winter and the reprieve from severe drought conditions that have impacted growing areas for the past several years.

Though rain was heavy throughout the winter, cantaloupe-producing districts have not experienced flooding that has affected other parts of the state. What’s more, California cantaloupe fields had not yet been planted at the time of the state’s heaviest downpour in early 2023, according to a news release.

California cantaloupe growers are reporting that wet fields and rainy weather definitely delayed planting, particularly in the southern growing districts of Imperial Valley. This means that promotable volumes of cantaloupe from California will likely not be available until Memorial Day weekend, with peak supplies expected throughout June.

“In short, we know the beginning of California cantaloupe season will be approximately two weeks later than normal this year,” Westside Produce’s Garrett Patricio said in the release.

Related news: Later start but good quality expected for California tree fruit, melons

Patricio added that major delays for the San Joaquin Valley harvest are not expected.

Cantaloupe plantings in the major San Joaquin Valley growing regions were also slightly affected by wet fields. This is not expected to significantly delay harvest of Westside cantaloupe, which should peak in mid-July as it normally does.

“Importantly, we want to remind everyone the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board operates a robust, mandatory food safety program that involves government audits of all cantaloupe farmers, packing facilities and cold storage operations,” Patricio said in the release. “We want to assure our customers that flooded fields have not been an issue for us this year even with the heavy rains.”

Patricio further noted that California cantaloupe growers have invested heavily in food safety research for over 20 years and the industry has adopted growing systems that keep irrigation water from coming into contact with cantaloupes in the field.

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.