Blueberry harvest has started in Washington state and the outlook for the season is positive. "Growing conditions have been mild and manageable in our growing region here in Central Washington, with nothing too much out of the ordinary," says Tyler Johnson, Sales Manager at Rainier Fruit. "We hear chances are low for extreme heat this summer, which makes us optimistic about the season."
100 percent organic
As a result, Rainier Fruit is expecting good volume with plenty of high-flavor berries from new plantings of the latest varietals. The company's blueberries are 100 percent organically grown. "Our cold winters and volcanic soils are perfect for growing organic berries," Johnson shared. In addition, the desert climate gives Rainier complete control over irrigation. "This gives us an advantage over wetter regions where pest and disease pressure are usually higher." The company first started growing blueberries 20 years ago. "At the time, we were already familiar with the organic consumer based on our experience with organic apples and pears, so we decided to go all in on organic blueberries." Since then, organic consumption has only grown, especially now that supply is available year-round. Consumers expect organic supply to be available 365 days per year, alongside high-quality fruit.
"Our blueberry program differentiates through 100 percent vertical integration and family ownership," added Johnson. "We handle farming, packing, selling, and shipping. Every decision, from harvesting by hand to starting the cold chain within minutes of packing, falls under our company philosophy. We realize we can't control everything in produce but where we can, we do it right."
Rainier Fruit will exhibit at the Organic Produce Summit in Monterey. Visit the team at booth #517.
Contact:
Tyler Johnson
Rainier Fruit
[email protected]
www.rainierfruit.com