With significant volumes entering the market, Georgia officially launched its blueberry season this week. After visiting several blueberry farms across the country, Simón Muñoz, International Blueberry Production Advisor at CASM Blueberries, highlighted the positive start of the season and the favorable outlook for the coming weeks.
The blueberry season has started with significant volumes this week. The previous week and the first days of this week were mainly focused on trial harvests, quality parameter adjustments, and defining color-change standards. It has been a somewhat slow start, but I believe that with crop development and favorable temperatures, volumes will increase rapidly. By next week, we expect to see substantial commercial volumes,” he said.
According to the advisor, the initial assessment of the season has been positive, particularly regarding orchard conditions and fruit quality. “The season has started very well, with excellent-quality fruit. The growers we work with are very pleased because, compared to the previous season, they have achieved a better balance in plant vigor. Even varieties that typically attract less interest have responded favorably to the management practices implemented,” he explained.
The advisor highlighted that the adjustments implemented during the previous season are already delivering tangible results in the field. “Growers, both those with more competitive varieties and those working with less attractive cultivars, are very satisfied with the work that has been done. We have implemented a range of management adjustments aimed at ensuring fruit quality. As a result, we are projecting a season without major production-related challenges,” he noted.
However, he cautioned that weather conditions will need to be closely monitored in the coming weeks. “At this point, we need the weather to remain favorable. There are some early-season rainfall alerts, so we have reviewed fruit protection programs to minimize potential risks. Overall, we believe the season will progress without major setbacks,” he added.
Interest in New Varieties Continues to Drive Industry Growth
Beyond the start of harvest, Muñoz highlighted the strong momentum that continues to characterize Georgia’s blueberry industry, as well as growers’ increasing interest in adopting new technologies and higher-value genetics.
“The interest in continuing to grow this industry remains very strong in the country. Many growers are looking to move forward with new varieties and incorporate technologies that will allow them to improve both their production performance and commercial results,” he said.
In this context, he highlighted the strengthening presence of CASM Blueberries in the Georgian market. “We are very excited to continue supporting growers and working alongside them. An increasing number of producers are showing interest in collaborating with our consulting company. Just as the blueberry industry continues to expand in Georgia, we also see significant opportunities to further grow and develop our presence as a consulting firm in this market,” he concluded.
