Melons

Wed, Jan 7th, 2025

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

Cantaloupe

Cantaloupe supplies are expected to improve this week and next compared to the holiday period, though overall availability remains lighter as production transitions from the Zacapa region to additional growing areas. The Zacapa season concluded approximately two weeks early due to adverse weather during the October–November growing cycle. Current sizing is primarily 9ct, with a balanced mix of jumbos and 12ct. Quality remains strong, with fruit arriving firm, slightly greener externally, and eating well internally, showing consistent flavor and brix levels in the 12–14% range.

Honeydew

Honeydew supplies remain tight, with demand exceeding availability; however, new fruit from Guatemala is expected to begin arriving at Florida ports next week. Early production will be mainly 5/6ct, with some jumbos and limited 8ct. We appreciate your flexibility over the past several weeks and expect conditions to gradually improve as new volume enters the market.

Watermelon

Classic Fruit’s seedless watermelon program has also begun from Guatemala and will run through March, with steady availability of both cartons and bins. Early arrivals are showing very good internal quality and strong early-season performance.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce