Stable French Strawberry Harvest, but Late Start of the Season
The French strawberry season has begun, albeit with a slight delay compared to previous years. Despite the late start, growers are optimistic about the overall harvest, expecting a stable yield.
Delayed Start
Unusually cold weather conditions in March and April pushed back the blooming and ripening of strawberries throughout France. In some regions, the harvest started two to three weeks later than in average years. “The cold weather has definitely had an impact on the season’s schedule,” said Jean-Marie Lussiana, president of the French Strawberry Association (AFPF). “However, thanks to the resilience of the plants, we are confident that the harvest will reach its usual levels.”
Stable Yield
Despite the delayed start, growers anticipate a steady supply of strawberries throughout the summer months. The plants have responded well to the late-season weather conditions, with good fruit set and quality. “The strawberries are smaller than usual, but they are very sweet and flavorful,” said Marie-Charlotte Monnier, a strawberry grower in the Gard region. “We are expecting a stable harvest over the next few weeks.”
Market Outlook
The delay in the harvest has not significantly impacted the market for French strawberries. There is strong demand for the fruit from both domestic and international consumers. “Consumers are eager to get their hands on fresh, locally-grown strawberries,” said Pascal Garnier, a strawberry seller in Paris. “We are seeing good prices and steady sales.”
Challenges
While the overall harvest is expected to be stable, growers are facing some challenges. The late start has compressed the season, which may lead to a slightly shorter window for optimal production. Additionally, rising labor costs and supply chain issues are putting pressure on farmers’ margins.
Conclusion
Despite the late start, the French strawberry season is expected to deliver a stable harvest of high-quality fruit. Growers are cautiously optimistic about the season’s prospects, with strong market demand and a resilient crop. While some challenges remain, the French strawberry industry is poised to meet the growing demand for this popular summer fruit.Stable French strawberry harvest, but late start of the season The French strawberry harvest is expected to be stable this year, despite a late start to the season due to unfavourable weather conditions. According to the French Strawberry and Red Fruit Interprofessional Association (Ciflorette), the harvest is expected to reach 45,000 tonnes, which is in line with last year’s production. However, the season has started about two weeks late due to cold and rainy weather in April and May. This has led to a shortage of strawberries on the market and higher prices. Ciflorette said that the late start to the season has also affected the quality of the strawberries, with some growers reporting that the fruit is smaller and less sweet than usual. Despite the challenges, Ciflorette said that the French strawberry industry is optimistic about the season. The association is hoping that the weather will improve in the coming weeks and that the harvest will continue to increase. France is the second-largest producer of strawberries in Europe, after Spain. Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in France, and are used in a wide variety of dishes, including desserts, jams, and compotes.