While the domestic blueberry season will continue for another six weeks, the industry is preparing for the transition to the import season. Currently, Oregon, Michigan, Washington and British Columbia are all offering high quality fruit, but just lighter production volumes compared to average historic numbers. "The promotable time for the domestic season is coming to an end and I expect harvest to finish late September," says Matthew Giddings with Always Fresh Farms. By that time, volumes from Peru won't be sufficient yet to support the industry.
Blueberry fields in Peru.
Late start for Peru
In fact, Peru's blueberry season will see a slow start. Last year, Peru's harvest was delayed due to El Niño. That timing caused a delay in this season's pruning cycle and as a result, the peak production curve will see a delay. Overall, there will be a gap between the end of the domestic season and the arrival of significant volume from Peru. "However, internally we've planned well for it," commented Giddings. "We are expecting some high quality late domestic fruit and are having conversations with our customers." Retailers are adjusting their promotions by shifting them to the late October time frame. "By late October, Peru will be the dominant player in the market," shared Giddings. "The country will take center stage in November and December when ample promotional opportunities should be available.
Giddings is excited for new blueberry varieties from Peru coming into production. While some new varieties were already available in smaller quantities in previous years, 2024 promises to be a bigger year for new varieties with more volume hitting the market.
Local blackberry programs
Although blackberries are seeing a good domestic season, the heat in some parts of the country was a challenge. "In addition, blackberries don't travel well and therefore, we are increasingly focused on local programs with retailers," Giddings said. They grow well in many parts of the country, offering opportunities for local supply. "We had a lot of success with local programs out of Florida, Georgia, the Pacific Northwest as well as New Jersey," Giddings said. The domestic season is now winding down and expected to finish early September.
Always Fresh Farms has already started receiving blackberries out of Mexico and is looking forward to a promising import season.
For more information:
Matthew Giddings
Always Fresh Farms
Tel: (+1) 863-401-3404
[email protected]
www.alwaysfresh.com