The 2025 Florida blueberry season proved to be a case of “better late than never” for many growers. A delayed start, caused by a cold January and the lingering effects of an active 2024 hurricane season — including Hurricane Milton in the south and Hurricane Helene to the north — set back many growers. Although yield volumes were generally considered average, harvest prices remained strong through late April and into May, transforming a challenging start into a successful season for most.

The most recent estimates for the 2025 season indicate a yield of 17.5 million pounds, a decrease from the more than 20 million pounds harvested in 2024 but an improvement over the 14.6 million pounds produced in 2023. A key factor differentiating this season from previous years was the stability and profitability of prices later in the season. For farms like Straughn Farms, while the overall crop size was not exceptionally large, the farm was able to pick and pack a higher percentage of its crop than usual. This success can be attributed to favorable pricing, high-quality fruit, and a steady labor force — three critical factors that determine whether growers can continue to harvest their crops for fresh-pack markets as the season progresses.

A particularly dry spring contributed to maintaining the quality of the fruit, although it also hindered efforts to increase fruit size. Labor availability was bolstered by delays in other regions to the north, and prices remained firm due to limited supply. Georgia’s crop was delayed and lighter than expected, while competition from imports, especially from Mexico, was reduced. Furthermore, the introduction of new blueberry varieties from the University of Florida breeding program played a significant role in boosting profitability. These varieties are high-yielding, fast-growing, and well-suited for machine harvesting—an increasingly important consideration as the industry continues to evolve. Additionally, more farms are exploring U-pick operations and agritourism opportunities to maximize returns as prices begin to decline toward the end of the season.

On the political front, the landscape remains dynamic, with ongoing discussions regarding immigration policy, tariffs, and increased efforts to reduce or eliminate many of the pesticides that are essential for growing in Florida’s humid, tropical, and subtropical climate. As the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council advocates for a potential increase in assessment fees, it is crucial for industry leaders to engage in a collaborative dialogue to determine a fair and manageable fee structure for growers. While supply-side investments continue to rise, it is equally important to bolster demand through ongoing research and targeted promotional efforts.

Despite the initial setbacks, the 2025 Florida blueberry season has been a success for most growers, yielding average volumes, high-quality fruit, and above-average late-season prices. Many growers are beginning to see the benefits of their investments in machine-harvesting technology and improved genetics, which are yielding higher volumes of firmer fruit. As the industry moves forward, these advancements, along with strategic investments in both supply and demand, will continue to shape the future of Florida’s blueberry farming landscape.