Eggplant production is now underway in California’s Central Valley, with growers noting encouraging early results. The first harvests are producing a strong showing of number-one quality eggplant, particularly in the 18-count sizing, which remains readily available. However, supplies of the smaller 24-counts are currently more limited.
This season follows a stretch of mostly ideal weather conditions, despite a few temperature spikes reaching between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit in early May. These conditions have supported steady crop development.
Unlike more volatile crops, eggplant remains a relatively stable item in terms of acreage and volume across seasons. Production is expected to continue into late October or early November, depending on how early cold temperatures arrive.
Despite market fluctuations elsewhere, demand for eggplant remains good and consistent, providing growers with a reliable outlet for their product.
— Reported by Lorrie Boyer, AgNet West