Berry Update 9.4.26

Fri, Sept 4th, 2026

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

STRAWBERRIES

Salinas/Watsonville Very light yields continue in these areas as plantings approach the end of the season. Growers are battling increased insect and disease pressure which is causing lower yields and quality issues. We are expecting an earlier than normal end of the season for most shippers in these areas. Early projections are suggesting possibly mid-September as the timeline for the end of production.

Santa Maria We are experiencing improved volume this week in this growing region. However, the slow increase in production will not offset the lack of product in the northern growing areas. Demand remains strong, and markets continue to be steady at elevated price levels.

Central Mexico /Baja This new growing area is expected to begin contributing modestly to overall supplies over the next two to three weeks.

Oxnard This area is expected to begin meaningful production as early as next week. With the advent of Imported strawberries coming from Mexico, there will be a percentage of overall inventory coming from that area at most coolers.

We ask that you specify “product of USA only” on your orders if you are using the fruit for your school or D.O.D business.

BLUEBERRIES The Pacific Northwest is nearly finished for the season, with only limited volume remaining. Peruvian imports continue to increase. Central Mexico and Baja are expected to begin crossing additional fruit into the U.S. through Texas and San Diego, CA. This week will mark the end of domestic product availability.

BLACKBERRIES Supplies are lighter this week due to the ending of Domestic California production and Mexico transitioning into new growing regions.

RASPBERRIES Supplies remain light coming from Central Mexico and Baja. California production is at a seasonal end.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce