Wish Farms’ proprietary breeding company, Berry Sweet Research, is advancing quickly toward the commercialization of new varieties.
Entering its fourth year of rigorous seedling evaluation, BSR is setting new benchmarks in innovation, flavor and performance in its mission of developing premium raspberry and blackberry varieties, according to a news release.
At the helm is Carlos Fear, a renowned plant breeder and horticulturalist with 35 years of industry experience, the grower says. Fear spent much of his career at Driscoll’s, where he played a pivotal role developing industry leading berry varieties. He is the inventor or co-inventor on 35 patents spanning raspberries, blackberries and strawberries.
“We are well on our way to breed and license superior proprietary genetics,” Fear says. “All of our efforts are driven by developing exceptional flavor through the understanding of chemistry, molecular genetics, germplasm, sensory analysis and optimization of production practices.”
Each year, BSR assesses 10,000 seedlings and advances approximately 100 elite selections for further evaluation across three strategic trial locations in California and Mexico. Selections are chosen based on exceptional yield, superior postharvest performance and standout flavor criteria that reflect the evolving demands of growers, retailers and consumers.
“Carlos and his team bring unique skill sets, expertise and vision to our genetic initiatives,” says James Peterson, chief operating officer for Wish Farms. “The program’s momentum continues to build as results from our 2025 raspberry test plots show outstanding promise.”
BSR is preparing to launch full tunnel pre-commercial trials by 2026, featuring two standout raspberry selections. BSR anticipates expanding pre-commercial trials to include two to four selections with growers, paving the way for the release of up to two top-performing varieties for commercial production in 2027.
BSR says it is committed to delivering varieties that not only meet the highest standards of quality and consistency but also empower growers with genetics that thrive in diverse environments.
