Cabbage has become a better paying crop over the last 10 years according to some growers and broccoli is still gaining in popularity. The season is over its heaviest volume. “We’re purposely heavier in the spring before our summer crops come in (peppers and corn),” said David Walczak of Eden Valley Growers. “The bulk of our supply is finished but we do have a pretty steady supply that we keep here for the local Buffalo, Western New York area.” Walczak said cabbage was smaller in size due to a lack of water in the region “but a good crop. Prices were very good.” Despite smaller produce he said prices were also a little bit higher from last year’s averages.
Riding out the rest of the season with supply planned specifically for the local market keeps them competitive and also saves money. “The fact that we’re just shipping here locally there’s less freight involved,” he said.
In addition to cabbage, the company has also delved into growing broccoli because of a higher demand. Their program began four years ago and this past spring the company invested over $500,000 in a slush cooler. What started at around 10 acres is now between 80 – 90 dedicated to broccoli. “It does have issues in the heat so this summer has been more challenging,” said Walczak. Eden Valley works closely with Cornel University when choosing which varieties to grow. “They have some varieties that seem to have some heat resistance so they don’t button or yellow as quickly. We’re always looking at different varieties with them to hopefully cover the whole entire summer season.”
