Do you often wonder why our local availability during December – March is predominantly herbs, lettuce, and apples?
In Virginia, we are lucky enough to experience all four seasons. This allows us to grow for most of the year; however, in the winter, many local produce items are not able to grow. Though the winter season is a time of calm and wonders in nature, we experience long periods of rain, freezing temperatures, and the dreaded s word…snow. These harsh elements are not conducive to crop growth. So, we rely on Greenhouses and Controlled Atmosphere Warehouses.
Greenhouse items flourish in the harsh winter months because they are in controlled, regulated climatic conditions.
We are partnered with numerous greenhouse farmers to source fresh items year-round.
Additionally, and more specifically apples, are stored in controlled atmosphere warehouses. Controlled atmosphere (CA) storage is a postharvest management practice based on manipulating the carbon dioxide (CO₂) and oxygen (O₂) concentration in the fruit storage environment, in combination with temperature and humidity to maintain the quality and increase the shelf life of stored fruits. [source]