June 30, 2021
Due to a late frost in early June (when the plants were already in full bloom), the potential blueberry crops were damaged, causing variable losses between 15 and 70%.
Before this frost, all the conditions pointed to an excellent harvest. As the flowering and pollination season draws to a close, now is the time to take a look at the wild blueberry harvest in North America for 2021.
Despite a winter with light snow cover, the snow thickness on the plants was sufficient to protect them well from the more intense cold. We therefore had beautiful fields this spring, with predictions for a great harvest potential, both in Quebec and in New Brunswick. However, spring came early, and the plants began to grow abnormally early as well. And early spring brings its share of risks. Indeed, there is a risk of frost in the buds and especially in the flowers, because if they bloom too early, colder nights can affect their survival.
And, the inevitable happened. A frost settled over Quebec, causing damage to fields ranging from 15 to 70% loss depending on the sector. We could therefore already say that the volumes would be limited given the already low inventory. However, pollination conditions were good, so we hope to maximize what is viable provided we have enough rain for the rest of the summer.
Inventory Situation
The same scenario has been repeated for four seasons now. Our industry needs an excellent crop. Inventory levels are at their lowest since 2014. Under these conditions, we will be waiting until we are very clear on the crop size before we make any offers this season. Without any inventory to fall back on, we have no cushion so we must be particularly cautious.
Based on the current supply & demand outlook, customers can expect prices to be relatively firm, especially since Eastern European bilberry (vac. myrtillus) inventories are also said to be at a low level.
Our harvest will start sometime during the first two weeks of August and typically lasts about four weeks.
Review of Decas Cranberry Products, Inc. Acquisition
Last March, Fruit d’Or consolidated its status of major player of the global cranberry and wild blueberry scene, and worldwide leader of the organic industry. The transaction will enhance Fruit d’Or’s leading role on the North American and international scenes. This acquisition supports the objective of strengthening Fruit d’Or’s positioning and will help meet the high international demand for berries. To remain a leader in our field, we must constantly create new opportunities and focus on innovation. Together, we will be well positioned to bring our berries to new heights.
We wish you a flourishing 2021 harvest season!
Our sales team is happy to answer any of your questions. Please contact:
Tim Dohan and or your Fruit d´Or representative.
It’s the simple everyday things that make our berries so tender, tasty, healthy and give them the perfect texture. Each parcel of land we farm with care and respect. Each extra day we wait to ensure crops are harvested at peak ripeness. Each minute saved between field and freezer. Each berry perfectly preserved. Each unwanted substance detected and eliminated. And each delicious bite our customers enjoy.
