Domestic raspberry and blackberry movement is ramping up, and with shipments already underway from Mexico, growers say they anticipate an overall good season this year despite a slower start than a year ago.
In the blackberry fresh market category, USDA reports that, as of April 19, movement was at about 6.3 million pounds from California, Georgia and North Carolina, down from about 9.5 million pounds at the same time in 2024. Total 2024 fresh market volume was 62.3 million pounds.
Fresh market volume of raspberries as of April 19 was 720,000 pounds from California, down from 1.9 million pounds in 2024. Total fresh market volume for 2024 was 63.5 million pounds of conventional and 27.7 million pounds of organic.
Traverse City, Mich.-based North Bay Produce sources blackberries from Mexico year-round, while Georgia will start in May, followed by North Carolina in June, said Aaron Hunter, sales representative. Raspberries are sourced from Mexico from October to June and from California from June to October.
“Erandy Reserve blackberries are our staple blackberry known for its high Brix, extended shelf life and wow effect,” Hunter said.
“All our bush berries have shown to be excellent in quality, sizing and flavor,” he added.
Blackberries from North Bay Produce are sold in 6-, 10- and 12-ounce packages, and raspberries come in 6- and 12-ounce containers. All are available in organic as well as conventional versions.
Peak season for raspberries from Watsonville, Calif.-based California Giant Berry Farms is August to November, said Tim Youmans, vice president of sales. Peak production for blackberries is June through October. Both are sourced primarily from Watsonville and Mexico.
“California Giant will have availability of blueberries, raspberries and blackberries in anticipation of Mother’s Day,” he said.
And a couple of months later, the Fourth of July will be an ideal time for retailers to ensure a large and full berry patch display, Youmans said.
Mark Bolda, farm adviser for strawberries and caneberries for University of California Cooperative Extension, Santa Cruz County, Watsonville, said the outlook for blackberries and raspberries is excellent.
“We’ve had some good cold [weather] this past winter with a bit of moisture,” he said. “I think we’re looking at a great crop.”
