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The Wisconsin potato outlook is relatively strong, but industry leaders say the crop is running a bit behind schedule.

For the first time , Oxnard, Calif.-based Bobalu Berries will ship fresh strawberries from California for the entire year, said Cindy Jewell, marketing representative.

Good growing weather is spurring on Southern California strawberry production for California Giant Berry Farms, said Kevin Dwyer, district manager for the Watsonville, Calif.-based marketer.

Watsonville, Calif.-based Well-Pict Berries grows its Southern California proprietary strawberry varieties on approximately 1,200 acres in Oxnard, Calif., said Jim Grabowski, director of marketing.

Naturipe Farms has increased strawberry acreage in Oxnard and additional acreage throughout the company’s main growing regions in California, said Jerry Moran, vice president of sales for Naturipe Farms.

Friesland, Wis.-based Alsum Farms & Produce anticipates a very good quality crop of Wisconsin potatoes, says Christine Lindner, marketing manager for the company.

Wentachee, Wash.-based Stemilt Growers has introduced the 5 River Islands brand of California cherries.

As consumer demand for avocados surges, so does their popularity among foodservice operators.

California growers aren’t the only ones who expect to have a large avocado crop this season.

Rain and cold weather slowed the start of the 2018 strawberry harvest in California’s Salinas/Watsonville district, but suppliers expect promotable strawberry volume expected for Mother’s Day.