US: California melon growers prepare for July 4 demand

Published Jul 1, 2024

Tridge summary

Melon season in California is in full swing, with an expected supply of watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews, and mixed melons for the Independence Day holiday. However, a delay in planting due to wet weather conditions has resulted in a smaller planting volume, potentially leading to a shorter supply and higher prices for the early marketing window. Despite these challenges, growers are confident of good quality and high demand in July. Additionally, the article highlights the development of new specialty melons and the increased costs of growing, packing, and shipping melons.

Disclaimer: The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

California watermelons, cantaloupes, honeydews and mixed melons will arrive in grocery stores in time for the Independence Day holiday, an important marketing window melon growers and shippers strive to meet each season. “It is critical for growers to supply melons, especially watermelons, to retailers in time for the July Fourth holiday,” said Bryan Van Groningen of Van Groningen and Sons, a grower, packer and shipper of watermelons based in Manteca. “Much of the summertime watermelon demand is dependent on family consumption and people having parties and picnics.” Van Groningen, whose family grows and ships seeded, seedless and miniature watermelons to retailers in California and other states, said crews began harvesting watermelons last week near Manteca. Early-season miniature watermelons are packed under the Yosemite Fresh label and sold in supermarkets in California and across the West. Photo by Christine Souza. Melon season has shifted to the San Joaquin Valley as harvest ...

Source: Fruitgrowersnews