Wild blueberry growers in Maine are evaluating crop losses after late May frosts followed sharp temperature swings across production areas. At Smithereen Farm in Pembroke, grower Severine von Tscharner Fleming inspected fields after a late May frost that came on the heels of an earlier warm spell — a pattern that can cause significant bloom and fruit set damage.
Maine is the dominant source of wild blueberries in North America, and the wild segment already faces structural pressure from oversupply of cultivated berries competing on price. Frost damage during the critical bloom and early fruit development window can significantly reduce harvestable volume for the season.
Watch for updates on the extent of yield losses as the season progresses. Buyers sourcing wild blueberries for processing or retail should keep an eye on availability and pricing through the summer harvest window.