2023 Wild Blueberry Pre-crop Outlook

The 2023 wild blueberry harvest is expected to be average, or even good for some producing regions. The instability of the weather system does not allow us to guarantee as large a harvest as last year. However, we can ensure a healthy transition with the inventories we maintain on hand.

Spring

The spring season for wild blueberries in Quebec was difficult this year. In addition to the frost periods in late May and June, the forest fires in the north of the province were a source of concern among producers. In the end, the frost damage was minimal and at time of writing, the wildfires have not impacted the fields, thankfully. Rain is in the forecast for the coming days which is beneficial.

Maritimes

In Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, the current temperature is in line with our expectations, suggesting stability for the next few weeks and a possibly normal harvest.

USA

In Maine, the largest wild blueberry producing state in the US, we anticipate a fairly normal harvest despite the frost incidents during the early bloom period.

Outlook

In all regions, the temperature over the next few weeks will be decisive for optimal wild blueberry growth. Sufficient rain will be required in July to avoid any drought that could considerably harm the chances of having a good harvest.

Conclusion

Overall, the 2023 wild blueberry harvest is expected to be average, with some regions seeing above-average yields. The instability of the weather system could impact the harvest, but we are confident that we have sufficient inventories to ensure a healthy transition.