Quality: Santa Maria is entering a more stable weather pattern following several weeks of fluctuation. Quality remains a mixed picture, though trends are improving. On the first pass this week, crews reported significant culling due to small, soft, and decayed fruit. However, the second pass has shown notable improvement, with cleaner fruit making it into clamshells.
Volume: Production remains strong across the region. Conventional fields are still cycling through peak, although early-planted blocks are beginning to slow. With cooler nighttime temperatures, there is potential for another production peak in these early fields.
Pack Counts: Conventional: 22-26; Organic: 22-28;
Quality: While the rainfall was not heavy, it was enough to disrupt field operations, prompting most growers to send their crews home. Growers are doing their best to manage fruit quality following the recent showers. At present, crews are discarding approximately 30% to 90% of fruit due to a combination of water damage and other defects. While water damage has been minimal so far—thanks in part to limited sun exposure—there is concern that conditions may worsen once the sun returns.
Volume: Several growers are currently evaluating whether to continue harvesting or to terminate their season early—many already have. Discussions with three growers revealed that some are considering pulling the plug and discing their fields as early as today or tomorrow, depending on how conditions evolve. Others are choosing to continue harvesting for now, but decisions may shift quickly based on weather and fruit quality.
Pack Counts: Conventional: 22-26; Organic: 22-28;
Region Update: The Pacific Northwest has reached the end of its harvest season. We are expecting one more week gap in organic blueberry production due to the Oregon season ending and Peruvian organic shipments not arriving until next week for packing.
Region Update: Production is significantly ahead of last year’s pace, with total volume for the season currently double that of the same period in 2024. While much of this fruit is being exported to Asia and Europe, shipments to the U.S. are up 40%, making Peru the key driver of fall supply. Organic supply remains limited.
Quality: Weather conditions in Mexico are beginning to improve, with rainfall tapering off after several weeks of consistent showers. The reduction in rain is a welcome change for growers, allowing field conditions to stabilize and fruit quality to improve. Raspberry production is in its seasonal peak, with strong yields. Quality looks good upon arrival with red, firm fruit overall.
Volume: Raspberry production is steadily increasing, with stronger yields expected as the week progresses.
Quality: Quality challenges continue this week due to the weather challenges, with fruit showing signs of softness.
Volume: Raspberry production is steadily winding down, with current weekly volume down 10%-20% compared to the recent peak production a few weeks back. This trend is expected to continue for another three to four weeks. However, there is a possibility that the season may wrap up earlier than initially forecasted, potentially concluding within four weeks.
Quality: Blackberry quality is improving with some soft, leaky berries due to lingering humidity.
Volume: Blackberry production is also at its peak and is expected to maintain consistent volume over the coming through the next couple of months.
Quality: Blackberry production is transitioning from summer blocks into late-season crops, which is helping to maintain quality.
Volume: Weekly production is projected to remain consistent over the next four weeks. Though, as the season progresses into late October and November, volumes will begin to decline.
Feb. 26 – Mar. 1
Orlando, Florida
Booth #728
April 28-30
Toronto, Canada
July 14-16
Monterey, CA
July 23-24
Monterey, CA
Booth #102
September 9-12
Nashville, TN
October 14-16
Orlando, FL
December 1-3
New York City, NY
“I just wanted to take a moment to say how much I appreciate the care and quality that goes into every berry you grow. Whether it’s strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, your fruit is always vibrant, flavorful, and fresh—something that really stands out in today’s market. As someone who values clean, wholesome food, your berries have become a regular staple in my kitchen. It’s also inspiring to see your commitment to sustainability and community. From field to table, it’s clear that you prioritize doing things the right way, and it makes a difference. I love supporting companies that care not just about great products, but about the people and planet too.”
