The organic spring vegetable season from Mexico has started. One of the items that is currently received with open arms is hard squash. “The industry is coming out of a seasonal gap, but volumes are now ramping up and solid volumes are expected by the time May comes around,” says Oscar Trujillo with Bridges Produce. Yields of the different squash varieties, including Acorn, Butternut, Squash, Kabocha, and Delicata are expected to be strong.

Right photo: Oscar Trujillo in a cucumber greenhouse.

Across the board, yields on all spring crops are expected to be high due to a mild winter in the Sonora region. Other crops that are available now are yellow squash, zucchini, and cucumbers. Bridges’ season will run through May. “Typically, the end of May is the time the heat could get in the way.” On the other hand, warmer spring weather makes watermelons thrive. At the moment, both suppliers and retailers are preparing for the upcoming watermelon season. “Everyone is trying to lock in their supply and pricing now and as a result, we are currently bidding on ads for that crop,” commented Trujillo.

Hot peppers are hot
An item that has been gaining popularity more recently is hot peppers. “They’ve traditionally been a hot item for Cinco de Mayo and in anticipation of increased demand for the last week of April, we’ve planted additional acreage,” commented Trujillo.” While the category is small, it’s growing and becoming more significant. As the weather warms up, demand for hot peppers starts to spike as people get more creative, spicing up their dishes.

All in all, Trujillo expects a pretty good run for the different spring crops. “In recent years, we’ve experienced a steady growth, and both our acreage and market share continue to increase.” Contributing to an optimistic vibe is the fact that no import tariff needs to be paid on produce entering the U.S. from Mexico. “After a couple stressful and traumatic weeks, lots of weight fell off our shoulders last week and we are excited to focus on our work again.” Trujillo adds how positive the experience with Bridges’ buying customers has been. “They all responded well to our request for price changes. During the first round of import tariffs that lasted for a few days in March, we preemptively had conversations with all our contract customers. They were all very understanding and on board with cost increases.”

Bridges works with four growers in Sonora, who are exclusive suppliers. “We have the control from beginning to end, from putting together the crop plans to quality control of the end product.” All crops from Bridges are organic with some farms being EFI certified, or Fairtrade certified.

For more information:
Oscar Trujillo
Bridges Produce
[email protected]
www.bridgesproduce.com