Blueberry growers in Canada’s British Columbia (BC) season are set to kick off harvest in the first week of July.
The 700 growers are expected to begin picking in the first week of July, which is four weeks later compared to the previous season, but more in line with historical norms, according to BC Blueberry Council board chair Nancy Chong.
The later start is due to colder temperatures and a wetter winter and spring, which had made it more difficult for growers to prune.
“Last October and November were a bit warmer than usual, but a lot wetter than average, and then in December, we experienced a drastic drop in temperature and high winds. All of these weather conditions resulted in follow-on effects through the winter and spring,” Chong said.
High-quality BC blueberry supplies are forecast to last until mid-September, with the BC Blueberry Council attending key international trade shows to drive demand for the blueberries. The council has attended Gulfood in Dubai, Anuga and Fruit Logistica in Germany, Foodex Japan and Food & Hotel China.
