Cranberry growers in Michigan are hoping for a much improved market as they look ahead to the 2018 season. Previous years have resulted in an oversupply and subsequently lower prices. Forecasts suggest that this year's supply might be shorter, leading to a belief that prices will be firmer.
"There has been a glut of cranberries in the last few years, but this year it's looking like cranberries are moving to a short position," said Mark Huggett of Michigan Cranberries. "Due to the low prices, some farmers have been under distress in recent years but there is a hope that prices will be higher this year. Buyers should consider getting their orders in earlier should the shorter supplies eventuate as predicted."
Fruit set crucial
So far, the weather has been kind to some growers, while others are facing problems from rain. More specifically, some growers have received excessive rain in the last month, while others have had practically none. The majority though, seem to have received a good amount of rainfall, and the late spring has given way to a very warm start to summer. For the most part, growers are pleased with how the crop is progressing but stress that it is too early to make any certain predictions, particularly before the fruit set in the Fall.
"It's all depends on when the fruit is set," Huggett noted. "Growers have to be very aware of the season and weather conditions happening while the fruit is setting. At this stage, it's too early to know how the season will proceed, but so far things have been going along well. We had a late spring but we are making up for it now as hotter weather currently persists. We are currently on track for an average harvest commencement of the end of September, beginning of October."
"Although our area was not affected, rain events last month caused some issues," he added. "Some growers received several inches of rain while others are facing near-drought conditions. Cranberries do like moisture, however they also don't like to be in water during the growing season. We flood them at harvest, and also during the winter to protect them from the harsh cold."
Fresh and processed
Cranberries are one of the fruits where both the fresh and processed categories enjoy a good share of the market. This year, Michigan Cranberries said they will be continuing to offer the fresh cranberries in both a poly and a bag option. Huggett also shared that the company is building on their processed range.
"For fresh cranberries, we offer a 12oz poly bag, as well as a 2lb bag in our Michigan and Great Lakes brands, generally shipping through to Christmas depending on supply," he said. "We also offer sliced, diced, frozen and juice concentrate as well as canned jellied and whole cranberries. Additionally, there is our home-style, which is much finer and ideal for sauces."
For more information:
Mark Huggett
Michigan Cranberries
Tel: +1 (989) 635-7486