Late North Florida potato volume brings higher prices

As north Florida begins spring volume up to two weeks late, buyers can expect lower red potato supplies to keep demand high and prices above normal.

A series of winter freezes and heavy spring rains damaged the crop and could cut yields by as much as 50% on the front end of the red potato deal, said Adam Lytch, operations manager for Raleigh, N.C.-based L&M Cos. Inc.

L&M began packing red potatoes from its Palatka, Fla., operation May 8, about two weeks later than last season, Lytch said.

He said the weather affected all of L&M’s potatoes to some degree.
“Nationally and here in Florida, colored potatoes are tight,” Lytch said in mid-May. “Demand is very strong. Demand this year will certainly exceed supply.