Conventional blackberry supply new for California’s Central Valley this season

The supply of conventional raspberries and blackberries is steady and on the organic side, it's more limited right now.

Raspberries: "Currently, conventional raspberry supply from Mexico is looking good, with volume building through the spring and then summer months, with primary peak availability spanning from August through the end of November," says Tim Youmans, VP of Sales at California Giant Berry Farms. He adds that organic raspberries from Mexico are available in limited but steady amounts. "In Watsonville, California, conventional raspberry volume will build as we move into summer, peaking in August and September."

© California Giant Berry Farms^{Youmans says that organic raspberries from Mexico are available in limited but steady amounts.}

Blackberries: Mexico is in a peak production window for conventional blackberries with consistent volumes expected to continue into the fall. "However, the organic blackberry season from Mexico is tapering down until it builds again in late summer," says Youmans. "Watsonville is seeing a rapid increase in conventional blackberry production, noted for its excellent quality and flavor. Strong volumes are projected from June through September."

Meanwhile, organic blackberry production in Watsonville will start in early June. "Additionally, California's Central Valley is introducing conventional blackberries for the first time this year, with volumes available from mid-June through the end of July, though this supply will be limited," says Youmans.

© California Giant Berry Farms^{Mexico is in a peak production window for conventional blackberries.}

Update on growing conditions
As for the growing conditions, Mexico has seen some hotter-than-average temperatures, which have hastened the fruit's ripening. "The Watsonville weather has been average—with mild days," says Youmans.

Meanwhile pricing on raspberries and blackberries is expected to be similar to last year's pricing.

For more information:
Kelley Sablan
California Giant Berry Farms
Tel: +1(831) 786-7467 Ext. 267
[email protected]
www.calgiant.com