The supply of chile peppers continues to be good, as it has been since mid-January. "This winter growing season was much better than last year. Last year, we had a very cool and wet winter in Florida, and this caused a lot of problems, which resulted in low yields. This year, we have had good weather and healthier plants," says Randy Bailey, owner and president of Bailey Farms.
© Bailey Farms
The grower-shipper produces a variety of chiles, including Jalapeno, Poblano, Serrano, Habanero, and more, as well as Bellafina Baby Bell and Minisweet peppers. "We have crops in Florida and Mexico, and there have been good growing conditions at both locations," says Bailey.
© Bailey Farms
2024 hurricane season
It hasn't always been so this season. The season saw a tough start dealing with the repercussions of two significant hurricanes–Hurricane Helene in late September and then Hurricane Milton in early October. Collectively, those two weather events affected crops of many kinds from Georgia to South Florida. "This caused the winter deal to start much later than normal," says Bailey, adding that it will finish its South Florida production in May.
As for the demand for hot peppers, Bailey says it seems normal. "We will have to see how the economy plays out, but we expect consumption to be steady," he says.
© Bailey Farms
This is leaving market pricing down compared to last year, largely due to the increased supply, which is expected to continue. "I think everyone will say that labor and growing costs are the greatest challenges to growers," adds Bailey.
For more information:
Randy Bailey
Bailey Farms
chile-info@baileyfarmsinc.com
https://baileyfarmsinc.com/