By Clint Thompson What a difference a year made for Florida blueberries. A year ago amid the early onset of COVID-19 and consistent imports from Mexico, prices were down for most of the season, about 50% of the historical average farmers would normally get, according to producer Ryan Atwood. This year’s crop, though, was helped by consistent prices for most …
Cold Temperatures Slow Growth of Florida Blueberries
Florida blueberries are normally in peak pollination season this time of the year. But that isn’t the case this season, however, says Ryan Atwood, who lives in Mount Dora, Florida and is one of the state’s blueberry leaders. “We’re starting to get some flower emergence. Normally by now we’re in peak pollination season. I don’t think we’re there yet in …
How Many Hives Are Best for Florida Blueberries?
By Karla Arboleda University of Florida (UF) researchers are working to establish honeybee hive recommendations specific to Florida blueberries. Right now, Florida blueberry growers rely on honeybee hive recommendations from research based in other states. Rachel Mallinger, an assistant professor in entomology at UF and part of the research team, said the amount of honeybees available to pollinate blueberries is …
Managing Pests in Florida Blueberries
By Karla Arboleda Researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) are working on techniques for managing pests in Florida blueberries. Both blueberry gall midge and chilli thrips are problematic for several blueberry varieties. Oscar Liburd, a professor of entomology at UF/IFAS, shared findings from the past season on managing pests. PEST ACTIVITY AND IDENTIFICATION …
Citrus Root Weevil Invades Florida Blueberries
The Florida Blueberry Growers Association (FBGA) and the University of Florida (UF) are warning Florida blueberry growers to be on the lookout for citrus root weevil. A pest that has been an issue in citrus for years has made its way on to another crop entirely, causing significant damage in central and south central Florida. Historically, citrus root weevils are …
Blueberries: A Healthy, Tasty Snack from Florida Farmers
As we head into the heart of Florida blueberry harvest season, which generally lasts from March through May, growers are shipping the fruit to market to meet statewide and national consumer demand. You can find Florida-grown berries in stores, farmer’s markets and U-picks from the Panhandle through South Florida. Along with vitamin C, manganese and fiber, the fruit is known …
New Genetic Finding Could Pave Way for Fall Blueberries in Florida
Fall is not normally when you would find Florida-grown blueberries at the grocery store. But that may change, thanks to University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) researchers. This comes as good news for consumers and growers, who could expand their market window by several months. The fruit normally grows and is harvested from February through May …
Joyner Testifies on the Impact of USMCA on Florida’s Specialty Crops
Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association President Mike Joyner expressed concerns about the impact of produce imports from Mexico under the current U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) during a public hearing held on Dec. 3. He reported significant losses in sales, market share and jobs within Florida’s produce industry due to unfairly priced imports from Mexico. The testimony was delivered as part of …
Wish Farms Starts Florida Strawberry Season With Optimism
PLANT CITY, FL — Wish Farms is entering the 2025–2026 Florida strawberry season with renewed optimism, following a season marked by Hurricane Milton’s impacts and rising input and labor costs. The season, which runs through April, promises exceptional quality and flavor. “Last year was a challenge,” said Nick Wishnatzki, Wish Farms Public Relations Director. “But our team’s strategy, resilience and …
So Far, So Good: Florida Blueberry Harvests Strong
By Clint Thompson A prolonged dry spell is not unexpected for Florida’s farmers this time of year. It does present ideal weather conditions for the state’s blueberries to be harvested. Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Blueberry Extension Coordinator, discussed the current harvest season. “It’s good picking weather, because you definitely want the berries …