In terms of volume and marketing, the northern German blueberry sector can look back on a mixed campaign. "Yields were slightly lower overall than in the previous year, which is mainly due to the flood damage. In addition, we harvested around 95 per cent of our blueberries mechanically this year, which is why we had to accept slightly more rejects. However, the quality of our blueberries was satisfactory until the end of the season on 23 August," reports Hannes Badenhop, Managing Director of Blaubeergarten GmbH, based in Grethem, Germany
This year's harvest started on 16 June, around two weeks earlier than last year. However, marketing got off to a rather bumpy start, Badenhop summarises. "Domestic produce is only needed by many food retail chains when cheaper imported produce is not available. Nevertheless, we were able to get rid of our produce, although slightly more than usual was used as industrial produce. We are in direct competition with goods from Eastern Europe, especially Ukraine, Poland, Romania and Serbia, particularly in the medium and late range." Prices have remained fairly stable compared to 10-15 years ago, while costs have risen sharply. Accordingly, there is little scope for discounts, Badenhop continues.
A total of five harvesting machines are already in use.
Duke continues to lead the way in cultivation
There is a strong trend towards sweeter, firmer blueberry varieties. "We would be interested in some new varieties, especially in the late segment. However, due to the low margins, I lack the motivation to invest and plant new varieties. With a share of around 45 per cent of the total volume, the Duke variety is still the leader on our farm, followed by Draper and Bluecrop." However, the latter variety is tending to lose importance, the report continues.
The CA storage facility for extending the season was also not utilised this year, the blueberry specialist continues. Due to the high energy prices and the already low margins, this was not an option this year. Considering the difficult conditions, Badenhop takes a rather critical view of the future of the northern German blueberry sector. A decline in acreage therefore cannot be ruled out.
Photo credit: Blaubeergarten GmbH
For more information:
Hannes Badenhop
Blaubeergarten GmbH
Grethemer Hauptstraße 35
29690 Grethem
Tel: 05164 8323
[email protected]
www.blaubeergarten.de