The number of floriculture producers and total sales were up in 2021, according to data released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Cosmic Crisp apple gained retail momentum this spring and made waves after appearing on the first season finale of "NCIS: Hawai’i." Stemilt’s review of April 2022 Nielsen retail scan data revealed that Cosmic Crisp was the seventh apple nationally at 2.2 percent of apple volumes and 2.3 percent of apple dollars.

As Bobalu Berry Farms managing partners continue with their daily walks in strawberry fields, students in Ventura County are preparing for their walk toward high school diplomas so the company thought it’s perfect timing for awarding scholarships from the new Bobalu Berry Farms Scholarship Program.

Fruit Royale’s portfolio of premium table grapes has moved into its California season. Transitioning out of its import holdings in Peru and Chile, and with the Mexican volume beginning to slow down, Fruit Royale’s San Joaquin Valley season is on the cusp of bearing fruit.

Around May 10, planting season for sweet potatoes began at Vick Family Farms, and though things have been cooler than normal, some rain is expected to help with planting. 

“We have great customers all across the United States, and in many countries across the world,” said Charlotte D. Vick, partner/sales and marketing manager for the Wilson, NC-based company. “We have built strong relationships that we value so much and continue to work with each of them to grow their sweet potato sales.”

Western Growers Insurance Services announced Ed McClements as the new senior vice president of large group sales.

McClements has over 45 years of employee benefits experience and 32 years working in the agricultural marketplace. McClements has been immersed in large group sales throughout his career and has a notable history of experience in the design and ongoing operation of customized employee benefit programs for employers with large workforces.