The domestic watermelon season in the United States has started on a positive note, with plenty of volume out of Florida kicking in. Production is currently concentrated in South and Central Florida, while Texas and North Florida are preparing to start their seasons very shortly. Volumes are expected to be strong for the next two weeks before tightening due to a later start for North Florida.

"The domestic watermelon season started a few weeks ago, with our production located in Immokalee, Arcadia and Lake Wales," shared Mike Martori of Stella Farms. "This week we have seen production really ramping up and we expect high volumes for the next two weeks. Conditions are great with warming temperatures and minimal disruptions. By May 15-20, we could start seeing supplies tighten up just a little as production shifts towards North Florida. This region experienced cooler and wetter weather in the lead-up and will start later than normal, so a slight gap is predicted."

He added that although supplies will become tighter, the situation wont be as bad as initially feared. Additionally, Mexican product will still be coming in strong across the border. "We were worried that supplies will be tight ahead of Memorial Day, but now it doesnt look like we will be as short as we first thought. Over the next week, Texas will also be starting and we should see a continuation of strong volumes arriving into McAllen and Nogales, especially the latter. In fact, Nogales is seeing increasing watermelon volume and will have very good number throughout May."