Vol. 33, No. 2
SUMMER 2025
DEPARTMENTS ON THE COVER
The amount of carrots the U.S. produces, exports and imports has shifted in the last quarter century. Find out how current trade policies come into play on pages 4-5.
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CARROT COUNTRY CONTACTS
Editor Denise Keller editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com
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Jerada RZ Delivers
Jerada RZ is an early Nantes hybrid for fresh cello, processing and bunching. Jerada RZ has an average of 90 growing days to reach full blunt shape and offers great uniformity, foliage health and taste. This early variety is high yielding and has long field standability.
• Early high yielding variety
• High uniformity in roots
• Strong, mid-dark green and upright foliage
• Smooth skin
• Excellent for bunching and fresh markets
www.rijkzwaanusa.com
The US Carrot Market in a World of Trade Policy Turmoil
By Daniel A. Sumner, Professor of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California, Davis
The quantity of carrots available to U.S. consumers has not changed much since the beginning of the 21st century 25 years ago. In 2000, domestic availability of fresh carrots (production plus imports minus exports) was about 2.6 million pounds. And in 2023, availability was about 2.85 million pounds before falling to 2.5 million pounds in 2024.
The substantial change in fresh carrot availability is shown in Fig. 1, where we see that imports have grown from a little less than 6% of U.S. supply to more than 27%. Meanwhile, exports of fresh carrots fell from about 10% to about 7% of U.S. supply. U.S. production was more than 25% higher 25 years ago when imports were only a quarter of what they have been recently. Exports have fallen gradually by about one third.
The United States has long been a significant exporter of carrots. Almost all are fresh carrots, and about 90% are shipped to Canada. U.S. exports of fresh carrots are now about the same quantity as were U.S. imports 25 years ago, and most are shipped in the winter and spring when Canadian fresh carrots are less available. Recent data on U.S. carrot exports by destination are shown in Fig. 2.
preserved) comprise about 13% by volume and twice that share by value of imports. The idea that the U.S. imports primarily processed carrots is simply wrong. The U.S. market share of U.S. produced carrots has declined in both fresh and processed carrots.
Fig. 3 shows that the value of U.S. imports in 2024 totaled about $250 million. These imports were divided three ways: about 36.5% each from Mexico and Canada and about 27% from the rest of the world. Almost all the fresh carrots are from Canada and Mexico, and more than one third of the processed carrot imports are from other sources including China for about half the dried carrots, which comprises only about 5% of total carrot imports.
Fresh Carrot Imports and Exports as a Share of Total U.S. Supply
U.S. imports of carrots have become far larger than exports, and the import pattern is more complex. While most imports are of fresh carrots, processed carrots (mostly dried, frozen
and
Carrot imports are relatively rare among horticultural crop imports with substantial shipments from both Mexico and Canada. With most of the U.S. carrot production in California, one might expect Mexico might be a seasonal exporter of carrots to the United States during periods when California carrots are not in the market. This picture of the market does not fit the facts. California production is not overly seasonal, carrots are storable, and Canada is also a major shipper of fresh and processed carrots.
These trade issues have come into focus in 2025 as the U.S. government has highlighted products for which the U.S. is a net importer. Some have pointed to production of goods for which the United States is well suited. A question for carrot trade is why has U.S. carrot production not kept pace with domestic demand. For example, what advantage does the Canadian carrot industry have over the northern tier states including Wisconsin and Michigan for both processed and fresh carrot supply? For California, one question is why has carrot production stagnated, allowing a large expansion of imports. Carrot acreage in California did not displace field crops in the way that almond and pistachio
acreage did. Is that because carrots are already covering the most suitable land or are there other economic rather than mostly agronomic factors in play?
As trade policy pressure continues in one form or another, it is important that the U.S. carrot industry observers and participants consider options for expansion to displace imports if barriers or import tariffs make relying on our neighbors for supply less feasible. This pressure emphasizes the vital importance of research and development for productivity growth and for creating carrot products that suit the demands of modern consumers.
Figure 2
Figure 3
Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions
By Denise Keller, Editor
Atrip home from a field day created the perfect excuse for a pit stop in Pasco, Washington, where Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions has operated its U.S. sales and service center for the last decade.
Founded in the Netherlands in 1991, the company specializes in palletizing systems for boxes, bags, crates and more. The combination of Dutch innovation coupled with stateside service, parts and support have helped the company grow through the years, employees say.
In 2013, Verbruggen opened the sales and service location in Pasco to better serve its North American customers. In the last 11 years, the U.S. operation has increased by more than five times its initial size, and a U.S.-based staff of two now numbers nearly 30, including service technicians, parts workers, administrative support and a sales team.
Verbruggen equipment is installed at approximately 400 customer locations in North America.
VPM-VHV palletizer precisely stacks a pallet of boxes, allowing for a more stable load and less product damage.
Balcom & Moe in Pasco, Wash., uses Verbruggen’s VPM-VHV palletizer with a multi-level accumulation system to save floor space and maximize the potential of the palletizer.
From left, Verbruggen employees Valerie Long, Gabriel Writer, Marco van der Heide and Jose Benitez visit a packing shed during the installation of a new palletizer.
Verbruggen’s
A wrapper secures a pallet of stacked boxes for loading and transport. Spiral conveyors offer a space-saving solution in systems with multiple levels of accumulation lines.
A Balcom & Moe employee removes a pallet of stacked boxes from the conveyor.
Verbruggen field service technician Gabriel Writer observes the operation of a Verbruggen palletizing system in use in Pasco, Wash.
Harvest Essentials Buyers’ Guide
Dewulf
Dewulf • Premium Reversible Cutter Set dewulfgroup.com
Kerian Machines
Along with the second generation of its ZKIV four-row self-propelled top-lifting harvester, Dewulf introduced an updated cutter set in 2023. The six-cutter set combines capacity and unparalleled speed with the highest possible respect for the end product throughout the harvesting process. In addition, the set is less prone to wear and tear, as Dewulf fabricates the cutters with a new type of highly wear-resistant material. Moreover, the blades of the cutter sets are reversible, extending their life. If the front part is worn out, users can effortlessly invert the cutting bars to start using another zone of the cutting bars. This cutter set is now also available on the ZKII and ZKIII top lifters.
Kerian Machines • Speed Sizer
kerian.com
The Kerian Speed Sizer sorts carrots by size accurately and consistently. The constantly rotating rollers help the turning flaps align the carrots with the rollers so that the carrots (with or without tops) are consistently sorted by diameter. The sizer is proven in use for fresh carrots, baby carrots and processing lines.
Univerco • G-Force
univerco.net
With the addition of the G-Force model, a two-row three-point mounted on tracks, Univerco now offers a complete range of carrot harvesters. From the Mini-Veg that can be operated by a 60-hp tractor all the way up to the MAC Series of multiple-row, self-propelled and everything in between, Univerco can propose a solution for all needs and farm sizes.
The G-Force is unique in its category because it offers a compact, multiple-row, high performance machine, with a motorized track that will power it through the most difficult field conditions, at a much lower price than a self-propelled machine. State-of-the-art technology supports a user-friendly machine made to work every day for carrot growers.
Vogel Engineering Inc. • Custom-Built Harvesting Equipment
vogel-engineering.com
Made in the U.S., Vogel Engineering harvesters offer features such as a precision computer-controlled planting population system and individual row head height adjustability. Plus, the company offers a new Extreme Super Cleaning System.
Harvesters are available in two-, three-, four-, six- and eight-row configurations. Other available options include conventional roller bars or high-speed crowning.
Volm Companies • Packing Equipment and Packaging
volmcompanies.com
Volm specializes in providing expert solutions for the carrot industry, offering a range of equipment specifically designed for efficient carrot packing. Automating a carrot packing facility can decrease labor expenses while increasing production. Volm’s weighers and baggers are engineered to seamlessly integrate into any packing line, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation.
Volm also offers end-of-line solutions with a complete line of palletizers and case packers. In addition to equipment, Volm offers packaging supplies including poly bags that help lock in moisture and prevent unnecessary food waste.
Nov. 19-20
Pacific Northwest Vegetable Association Conference and Trade Show
Three Rivers Convention Center Kennewick, Wash.
Sheri Nolan, (509) 585-5460 or www.pnva.org
Dec. 9-11
Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo
DeVos Place Conference Center Grand Rapids, Mich. www.glexpo.com
June 2-3, 2026
International Carrot Conference Bakersfield, Calif.
Jaspreet Sidhu, jaksidhu@ucanr.edu
Editor’s note: To have your event listed, please email Denise Keller at editor@ columbiamediagroup.com. Please send your information 90 days in advance.
Volm Companies
Vogel Engineering Inc.
T-L Irrigation Co. Celebrates 70 Years
T-L Irrigation Co. has reached its platinum anniversary, marking 70 years in business. Starting as a supplier of irrigation equipment, the company took its first step into manufacturing in 1961 with the purchase of an aluminum pipe tube mill to make pipe for gravity irrigation. T-L Irrigation’s first hydrostatic drivepowered pivot came along in 1969, and the technology remains the cornerstone of the T-L product lineup.
A Nebraska-based family-owned business, T-L Irrigation Co. distributes center pivots, irrigation systems, agriculture equipment, and water management products throughout the U.S. and to 87 countries.
Crookham Company Collects Certifications
Crookham Company is now USDA accredited for its seed lab and seed sampling programs and Canadian certified for seed testing and seed grading.
USDA certification indicates that the lab and sampling program follow rigorous procedures and protocols to assure accurate and reliable results. Of the more than 200 labs in the U.S. that test agricultural seeds, 9% are accredited by the USDA’s Seed Laboratory Program.
The Canadian certification makes Crookham one of 14 seed testing labs in the U.S. certified by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and one of 26 in the U.S. to earn the grading certification.
Sakata Seed America Transitions to New Leadership
Sakata Seed America Inc. completed an executive leadership transition this spring.
After 15 years as president and chief executive officer of Sakata Seed America, Dave Armstrong stepped into the role of executive chairman.
Eduardo Flores has assumed the position of president and CEO. Flores joined Sakata Seed America in 2021 as chief operating officer, bringing more than 20 years of experience in leading regional businesses, commercial activities, supply chain management and strategy development for global breeding companies.
In addition, John Nelson moved from executive vice president to executive advisor until his planned retirement next January. Hiroyuki Hashimoto has stepped into the role of vice president.
Plastic Packaging Manufacturers Plan Merger
IPL, a manufacturer of rigid-plastic products, is planning to merge with Schoeller Allibert, a manufacturer of reusable transport packaging. The proposed merger creates an international sustainable packaging producer with a manufacturing footprint in 27 locations across North America, Europe and the United Kingdom.
IPL mainly manufactures sustainable, rigid-plastic products for the agriculture, food, consumer and environmental sectors. Schoeller Allibert manufactures returnable transport packaging, primarily in continental Europe.
The merged company will be headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. The deal is expected to close this fall.
Redox CEO Receives Recognition
Darin Moon, owner, founder and CEO of Redox Bio-Nutrients, was among the honorees at the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences annual Alumni Awards.
Moon was honored with the university’s Distinguished Associate Alumni Award for his contributions to agriculture and the university. The university credited Moon for being committed to research, sustainability, regenerative agriculture, healthy soil and plant health since founding Redox Bio-Nutrients more than 30 years ago.
Based in Burley, Idaho, Redox Bio-Nutrients provides nutrients and biostimulant products designed to improve root development, soil health, nutrient efficiency and abiotic stress defense.
Plant Essential Oils An Option for Controlling Root-Knot Nematodes Beyond Fumigants
By Peter Feng, Product Division Manager, JH Biotech Inc.
Root-knot nematodes are among the major pests in agricultural production. These nematodes infect the roots of plants, causing root tissue swelling, which hinders nutrient absorption, suppresses crop growth and development, and ultimately leads to reduced yields. Rootknot nematodes are widespread globally, especially prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
Traditionally, chemical agents such as nematicides, especially fumigants, have been used to control these pests. While fumigants offer excellent soilclearing effects, they also eliminate beneficial soil microorganisms, and most nematicides can only target nematodes themselves, without killing nematode egg masses. With the push for sustainable agriculture, research has increasingly focused on developing natural, safe and environmentally friendly control methods, with essential oils showing significant potential in controlling root-knot nematodes.
Effects
Essential oils are volatile substances extracted from leaves, stems, flowers and roots of aromatic plants. These oils have bioactive properties such as antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant effects. Rich in aldehydes, terpenes, phenols and esters, essential oils have natural pest- and disease-fighting abilities. In combating root-knot nematodes, many essential oils have demonstrated the ability to inhibit nematode activity, prevent reproduction and reduce infection rates in plants.
Essential oils can control root-knot nematodes through several mechanisms. First, the active components in essential oils can directly affect the nematodes’ nervous system, disrupting their movement and reproductive ability. Many studies have found that essential oils containing terpene compounds, such as thyme oil, peppermint oil and cinnamon oil, effectively paralyze nematodes, preventing them from infesting plant roots.
Additionally, essential oils have strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth and reproduction
of root-knot nematodes. Essential oils like clove oil and lemongrass oil are rich in phenolic compounds that can destroy nematode cell membranes, leading to their death. Moreover, essential oils can boost plants’ immune systems, promote healthy root growth and increase crop resistance to nematodes.
Product Options
In recent years, numerous studies on essential oils for controlling root-knot nematodes have shown varying effects. One study tested 16 different essential oils for their lethal effects on root-knot nematodes and found that wormwood, cinnamon, peppermint, lemon balm, lemon eucalyptus, rue and clove oils were effective in killing half of the nematodes at dilutions higher than 500x. Cinnamon oil proved the most effective, killing over 50% of the nematodes at concentrations as low as 1/10,000 and inhibiting egg mass hatching at concentrations of 1/1000. Since cinnamon oil is a 25(b) exempt material, it is easily available on the market in plant protection products based on cinnamon oil.
In addition, some commercial essential oil products are gradually being applied in agriculture for root-knot nematode control. Neem oil, for example, has broadspectrum insecticidal and antibacterial properties and has been proven effective against root-knot nematodes. The main active ingredient in neem oil, azadirachtin, inhibits nematode reproduction and prevents egg hatching. Neem oil is currently classified as an EPA-registered pesticide, which makes it more expensive than 25(b) exempt products, complicating its promotion.
The main components of clove oil and cinnamon oil, such as eugenol
www.dewulfgroup.com
and cinnamaldehyde, are effective in controlling soil-borne diseases like damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia solani, wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum, and bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. Therefore, applying plant protection essential oil products based on cinnamon oil can not only reduce the damage caused by root-knot nematodes to crop roots but also lessen the impact of other soil-borne diseases on crops.
Advantages, Challenges
The primary advantage of using essential oils to control root-knot nematodes lies in their natural and environmentally friendly characteristics. Compared to traditional chemical nematicides, essential oils do not pollute the soil, water sources or ecosystems, and they pose relatively low risks to human health. Additionally, essential oils have multiple bioactive properties; beyond controlling nematodes, they promote plant health and reduce reliance on other pesticides and fertilizers.
However, there are challenges in using essential oils for nematode control.
First, essential oils are volatile, and their residual effect in the soil is relatively short, potentially requiring frequent applications to maintain effectiveness. Alternatively, applying them in a fumigant-like manner –before planting, covering them with plastic to enhance volatility – could improve efficacy. Additionally, the cost of different essential oils varies significantly, with some highly effective oils being relatively expensive, which presents challenges for large-scale agricultural production. Moreover, the effectiveness of essential oils can be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and soil type, requiring adjustments based on specific conditions in practical applications.
In conclusion, essential oils show significant potential as a natural and environmentally friendly alternative for controlling root-knot nematodes. With advancements in agricultural technology and increasing demand for sustainable agriculture, essential oils are likely to become an essential part of future integrated pest management strategies.
ORGANIC CARROTS - A STRINGENT SELECTION PROCESS
NAPOLI
NAVAL
Very full-sized Nantes with strong dark green tops and cylindrical, smooth blunt roots. A specialized variety with a sweet taste when sown in fall for winter harvest.
Resistance IR: Ar / Cc / Ps, Pv
Similar to Nelson, with more uniform roots and plant vigor. The 5 1/2–6 1/2” roots have mild flavor and crisp, juicy texture with early sugar development. Strong, compact tops for bunching.
Resistance IR: Ar / Cc / Ps, Pv
Chelsey Lenczyk - Organic Lead, Home & Farm Market Manager T: 267-838-0078 E: c.lenczyk@bejoseeds.com
A Nantes type that produces very shapely, uniform, hairless roots 7-9 inches long. Crisp and sweet, Naval resists cracking with an added bonus of a long shelf life.
Resistance IR: Ad / Ar / Cc
Vive Expands Product
Label to Carrots in Canada
The label for Vive Crop Protection’s AZteroid FC 390 in Canada has been expanded to a wider range of crops including carrots. In carrots, the fungicide is designed to help control Rhizoctonia root rot, crown rot and stem canker. AZteroid FC 390 delivers long-lasting, soil-borne disease control resulting in even stand establishment, especially under cold, wet conditions, according to Vive. The product is created to mix easily with liquid fertilizers and other crop inputs to enable a single-pass application of disease control and fertility. Visit vivecrop.ca/azteroid.
Nutrien Introduces N-FINITY
Nutrien Ag Solutions Inc. is rolling out N-FINITY this spring. The product is meant to improve nitrogen use efficiency by enhancing the soil’s ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, recruiting nitrogen-fixing bacteria into the root zone and facilitating the liberation of nitrogen from soil organic pools. N-FINITY combines three modes of action and leverages biological technology to optimize nitrogen availability for improved plant health and crop yields, according to the company. Visit lovelandproducts.com/n-finity.
Topcon Agriculture Announces Value Line Auto-Steering System
Topcon Agriculture has launched its Value Line Steering option, a new offering aimed at making precision farming accessible for small and medium-sized farming operations. The Value Line Steering system makes advanced autosteering capabilities compatible with a wider range of tractors and enables older tractors to operate at sub-5 cm accuracy levels previously reserved for new, high-end machinery, according to the company.
Visit www.topconpositioning.com.
Redox Rolls Out RDx-N
RDX-N, a new nitrogen optimization product from Redox Bio-Nutrients, is now available. RDX-N is a stable, botanical extract biostimulant combined with organic carbon compounds designed to stimulate better nitrogen metabolism in plants. The product’s patent-pending combination of biostimulants is said to increase nitrogen optimization, including a 50% efficiency gain in synthetic liquid nitrogen applications, while maintaining crop production and quality.
Visit redoxgrows.com.
