This year’s blackberry harvest began in extremely unfavorable conditions, because the dry spring period and several days of tropical temperatures negatively affect the quantity and quality of the harvested fruits.
Duško Jevtić, a blackberry producer from Stanina Reka, is satisfied with the quality of the first harvested fruits of the “triple crown” and “chester” varieties, but is dissatisfied with the current purchase price of 120 dinars per kilogram, which does not cover production costs and the effort invested. He predicts a 40 percent reduction in the harvest compared to last year, and an additional reduction is possible if there is no rain soon.
The purchase price of blackberries from conventional production is currently 120 dinars per kilogram, while organic blackberries are paid 150 dinars. Cucumber growers hope that the scenario from last year will not repeat itself, when the purchase stopped due to the appearance of the fruit fly.
Miodrag Matić, a fruit grower from Osečina, owns 50 ares of conventional blackberry production and is satisfied with the quality and quantity, but says that in general there is little investment in blackberries because the price has been low for years. He adds that in 2021 the price was good, but the following years were bad, and last year was disastrous. Organic production further complicates the situation due to restrictions on the use of certain resources.
Blackberries on over 1,000 hectares
Fruit growing experts point out that the beginning of the growing season this year was bad for blackberries. The drought led to a smaller growth of productive twigs and a pronounced appearance of diseases, especially powdery mildew. The harvest season depends on the exposure of the plants, the installation of shade nets and the irrigation system.
Đorđe Sovilj, a consultant for fruit growing, notes that the reproductive potential of buyers is not satisfactory, although there are good plantations. As with raspberries, a small number of plantings will give a higher yield, up to 10 tons per hectare. This season is below average in terms of yields, and the quality of the fruits is good so far. However, if the heat wave lasts, there will be a decrease in the yield and quality of the fruits due to the appearance of sun spots.
According to the agricultural census data from 2023, blackberries in the Kolubara district grow on 1,111 hectares, and over 3,600 households are involved in this production. Research shows that the price of blackberries varies depending on the region.
The lowest reported price is 100 dinars, while some refrigerators in the vicinity of Leskovac pay up to 200 dinars per kilogram. The average price is around 130 dinars, and the most frequently reported prices are between 120 and 140 dinars. In some cases, sweet varieties are paid slightly better.
Overall, the current situation in blackberry production is challenging due to unfavorable weather conditions and low purchase prices, making it difficult for producers to cover costs and make a profit.
Source: AgroTV
Source: boljazemlja.com
