Rain causes mold problems for growers

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MONTEREY COUNTY

Rain causes mold problems for growers

Rain this week in Monterey County has caused mold and risks of mold in local

strawberry and lettuce crops, said Bob Roach, the county's assistant

agricultural commissioner.

For strawberry growers, the weather has caused mold problems and a decline in

the quality of their berries. The availability of strawberries has caused the

prices to go up this week, Roach said.

Flats -- which carry 12 one-pint baskets -- from Monterey County cost between

$10 and $12 for medium-large berries, according to the U.S. Department of

Agriculture. Prices two weeks ago averaged $2 less per flat.

Wet weather also has increased the risk of mold for lettuce crops.

Overall, this year's abundance of rain has caused a disruption of planting

schedules for lettuce growers and shorter supply and higher prices on the

market, Roach said.