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Captivator quality gooseberry bush for professional market gardeners
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Captivator bare-root gooseberry plant 1 branch
Regular price €0,79 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator bare-root gooseberry plant 2 branches
Regular price €1,02 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator bare-root gooseberry plant 3/4 branches
Regular price €1,31 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator Organic GOOSEBERRY Plant - 77-piece 3.5cm plug tray
Regular price €1,69 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator BIO GOOSEBERRY Plant - 9 cm pot
Regular price €2,46 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator Organic GOOSEBERRY Plant - Box of 24 9cm pots
Regular price €2,99 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator Organic Gooseberry Plant - Bare Roots
Regular price €3,80 EURRegular priceUnit price / per -
Captivator Organic Gooseberry Plant - Case of 10 1.5L Pots
Regular price €4,29 EURRegular priceUnit price / per
Collection: Captivator quality gooseberry bush for professional market gardeners
Captivator Gooseberry Variety Fact Sheet
- Skin color: Dark red to burgundy, sometimes described as purple-red.
- Size and shape: Medium to large, 3 to 6 grams in size or about 1.5 cm in diameter. The fruits are round.
- Tree Size: Bushy, mature height ranging from 1 to 1.80 m, 1 to 1.5 m, 1.80 m, or 1.30 to 1.50 meters. Mature width ranging from 0.75 to 1.50 m, 0.7 to 1 m, 1.50 m, or 0.75 to 2 meters. Bushy, upright habit.
- Fruit maturity: Early to mid-season, medium-late (third decade of July).
- Fruit Taste: Sweet and slightly tart, tart and sweet, sweet-tart flavor, sweet and tart, tangy, sweet and fragrant. The texture is juicy and firm.
- Earliness of the variety: Early.
- Fruiting period End of June to mid-July, July, beginning of July.
- Disease resistance and storage: Good disease resistance, especially powdery mildew and mold. Robust, withstands temperatures down to -20°C. Good post-harvest storage.
- Variety Yield: Tall, very productive, among the best of the European varieties tested. Average yield of about 3 to 4 kg per adult plant, up to 2.6 kg/plant.
- Is this variety self-fertile? Yes.
- Commercial use: Suitable for fresh consumption due to its flavor and ease of harvesting. Excellent for processing into jam and wine, ideal for preparing desserts and pies. Mechanical harvesting is possible due to the easy detachment of the fruit.
- Comments: Thornless or slightly thorny variety, making picking much easier. The berries are gathered in short clusters.
Quick read / the essentials on Captivator Gooseberry
The 'Captivator' gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa 'Captivator') is a variety particularly prized by professionals for its numerous agronomic advantages. This Canadian cultivar stands out as a strategic solution for modern, efficient and profitable cultivation. With its compact and semi-erect habit, completely free of thorns, it guarantees ease of cultivation and comfortable harvesting, making it a major logistical asset for professional farms.
Its medium to small sized burgundy red fruits offer excellent taste quality, with firm, juicy, sweet and tangy flesh, ideal for processing or direct sale. Its remarkable hardiness (-20°C), good resistance to powdery mildew and regular production position it among the most reliable varieties on the market.
At Bairiverse , a specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , we highly recommend this variety for its productivity and ease of maintenance. Choosing to buy Captivator gooseberry plants from a recognized professional like Bairiverse guarantees an optimal start to your orchard. As a specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , we provide you with rigorously selected plants, adapted to the needs of demanding arboriculturists. Whether you want to expand your range or renew your fleet, buying Captivator gooseberry plants allows you to combine cultivation efficiency and fruit quality. Thanks to our expertise as a specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , we support your project with personalized technical advice.
Technical presentation of the 'Captivator' gooseberry variety intended for professional arborists
The 'Captivator' gooseberry, botanically known as Ribes uva-crispa 'Captivator', is a Canadian-bred variety specifically designed to meet the needs of modern fruit production. It combines robustness, ease of cultivation, and taste, making it a strategic choice for growers and producers seeking profitability and consistent production.
Plant morphology
The Captivator forms a bushy shrub with a semi-erect, compact, and well-structured habit. At maturity, it reaches a height of 1 to 1.50 meters and a width of 0.75 to 1 meter. This moderate vigor allows for simplified management, while offering rapid and uniform growth. The branches, entirely devoid of thorns, considerably facilitate cultural operations, particularly harvesting.
Flowering characteristics
Flowering occurs in mid-April, a period during which the plant attracts pollinating insects, especially bees, thanks to its honey-producing properties. Since Captivator is self-fertile, it does not require the presence of other varieties to ensure fruiting. However, planting in density or in association with other currant bushes can improve production through cross-pollination.
Fruiting and yield
The fruiting period extends from late June to mid-July, with maturity classified as medium-late. From the third year of planting, an average yield of 2 to 4 kg per plant can be observed, with a potential of 700 to 1000 kg per 1000 m². The variety is distinguished by its regular production and ease of harvesting, particularly thanks to the arrangement of the berries in short clusters.
Description of the fruits
Captivator fruits are medium to small, weighing between 3 and 6 grams and measuring 15 to 18 mm in diameter. They are ovoid, sometimes almost round. When ripe, the skin turns dark red to burgundy, thin but strong. The flesh is firm, juicy, and has a well-balanced sweet and tangy flavor. The sugar content is estimated at between 14 and 16° Brix, making it a popular fruit for both fresh consumption and processing.
Taste quality and uses
The flavor of Captivator berries is fruity and fragrant, with a dominant sweetness softened by a hint of tartness, making them particularly attractive for direct sales. Their texture, both firm and juicy, also allows them to hold up well when cooked, making them ideal for jams, pies, and wine. In processing, the water content (around 88%) guarantees a good juice yield.
Resistance to disease and climate
Captivator is renowned for its hardiness, tolerating winter temperatures down to -20°C, making it suitable for harsh climates. It also has good resistance to powdery mildew (20-30% higher than susceptible varieties), as well as gray mold. No specific data indicate marked sensitivity to pests, limescale, root asphyxiation, or drought, although cultivation in well-drained soil is recommended.
Crop management and maintenance
Annual pruning, carried out at the end of winter before bud break, is recommended to stimulate production and maintain an airy and balanced shape. Regular but moderate watering helps ensure good growth, particularly during the fruit setting and growth period. A palmette training system can be considered to optimize manual or mechanical harvesting.
Profitability and commercial interest
Captivator is a choice variety for diversified marketing channels. Its thornlessness simplifies harvesting, reducing labor. Its good post-harvest stability (3 to 5 days in a cool place) allows for flexible marketing. Its mechanical harvesting potential and great adaptability make it a variety with a high return on investment.
Varietal equivalences and positioning
Compared to other varieties such as Hinnonmaki Röd or Invicta, Captivator stands out for its milder flavor, increased disease resistance, and spineless morphology. It is therefore particularly suitable for growers looking for a reliable, easy-to-grow variety that offers excellent fruit quality.
Conclusion
The Captivator gooseberry is a high-performance option for professional French growers. Combining hardiness, productivity, taste quality, and commercial versatility, it meets the demands of modern markets while simplifying cultivation operations. Thanks to its compact shape, lack of thorns, and natural resistance to major diseases, it is an excellent choice for rational and sustainable cultivation in specialized fruit growing.
To summarize: Captivator Gooseberry
The Captivator variety ticks all the boxes for a profitable, sustainable, and field-adapted crop. Its semi-erect, thorn-free bushy habit makes pruning and harvesting easy, while offering beautiful, controlled vigor. With a honey-producing flowering in April, average late fruiting, and a yield that can reach up to 1000 kg per 1000 m², this variety perfectly meets the requirements of arborists seeking consistency and quality.
The fruits, dark red to burgundy when ripe, are attractive for their balanced taste (14 to 16° Brix), their cooking stability and their versatility in processing. In terms of cultivation, Captivator adapts well to cold climates and has increased tolerance to the main fungal diseases, particularly powdery mildew. It adapts equally well to fruit hedge management and to mechanized harvesting.
Bairiverse , as a specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , offers you quality plants, delivered with all the advice necessary for a successful planting. Choosing to buy Captivator gooseberry plants from us means benefiting from expert support, reliable availability and controlled stock. Thanks to our status as a specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , you benefit from a committed partner to enhance the value of your production. For any planting project, it is strategic to buy Captivator gooseberry plants from a recognized player. Bairiverse , your specialist wholesale supplier of gooseberry plants , is a trusted partner in the success of your orchards.
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Bairiverse, your partner for market gardeners and small fruit producers
Why Choose Bairiverse as a Wholesale Partner in Small Fruit Plants for Market Gardeners and Farmers
For market gardeners, crop managers, and berry producers, ensuring a reliable, high-quality supply of plants is essential. Bairiverse positions itself as the specialized wholesale partner for berry plants, offering professional-quality products and technical expertise tailored to the needs of farms. Thanks to a wide variety of varieties, personalized advice, and seamless logistics, Bairiverse has established itself as a key supplier for berry producers throughout France.
Why Choose Bairiverse as Your Berry Plant Supplier?
Simple and seamless agricultural supply without complications
Bairiverse's mission is to simplify supply for farmers. With flexible logistics solutions, including 15-day delivery and responsive customer service, Bairiverse provides seamless access to quality berry plants without unnecessary complexity. This hassle-free process allows market gardeners to focus on their production rather than logistical challenges.
The widest range of berry plants in France
Bairiverse offers an extensive variety range in France, with plants sourced from specialized nurseries, guaranteeing professional quality and tailored to the needs of growers. This wide range includes conventional, organic, and untreated plants, and comes in various forms: bare root, 7 cm horticultural pot, mini-plugs, and honeycomb trays, among others. Bairiverse offers a personalized and varied solution for every berry grower.
Professional quality at direct producer prices
Market gardeners and crop managers benefit from unbeatable value for money with Bairiverse. By sourcing directly from the supplier, they benefit from volume-based pricing and optimal plant quality, adapted to professional standards. Bairiverse's positioning as a wholesaler with producer prices allows farms to maintain increased competitiveness.
Careful delivery adapted to farms
Delivery logistics are a key component for Bairiverse, with on-farm or direct-to-plot delivery services available, including the option of tailgate delivery for larger orders. By offering nationwide coverage and customized delivery options, Bairiverse ensures plants arrive in perfect condition and on time, ready for planting.
Technical advice and dedicated support for market gardeners
As an expert berry supplier, Bairiverse doesn't just sell plants; the team offers specialized technical support for market gardeners and berry producers, helping to optimize growing methods. With comprehensive technical itineraries and free personalized advice, crop managers can benefit from tailored support to improve the productivity and quality of their crops.
Products Available at Bairiverse
Bairiverse offers a complete range to meet the diverse needs of producers:
- Organic, conventional and untreated berry plants
- Mini-clods in a tray of 77 units
- 7 cm horticultural pots for easy planting
- Bare root plants, ideal for large areas and farms
- Professional quality plants adapted to the high standards of growers
Free Technical Support and Advice for Farmers
Bairiverse stands out by offering a free technical support service for producers. By providing no-obligation quotes and advice, the company helps farmers optimize their crops with solutions tailored to their specific needs. This unique service reinforces Bairiverse's added value as a trusted partner for farms.
Responsive Sales Service and Quality Customer Experience
Bairiverse's sales team stands out for its responsiveness and availability . Quote requests are processed in less than 48 hours, allowing customers to quickly plan their supply. This rapid service, combined with quality after-sales service, guarantees a serene and professional customer experience.
Bairiverse: Your Partner to Develop and Diversify Your Small Fruit Farm
By choosing Bairiverse, market gardeners and crop managers ensure a reliable, technical, and responsive partnership. The diversity of our offerings, technical support, and optimized logistics make Bairiverse an essential supplier for all growers specializing in berries. So, why wait? Plant your berry plot with the best plants, expert advice, and competitive prices.
FAQ for Bairiverse - Wholesale Partner in Small Fruit Plants for Market Gardeners and Farmers
What types of berry plants are available at Bairiverse?
Bairiverse offers a wide range of berry plants, including organic, conventional, and untreated plants. Options include bare-root plants, 7cm horticultural pots, plugs, and trays, allowing growers to choose the right varieties for their needs.
What are the benefits of choosing Bairiverse as your berry plant supplier?
Bairiverse offers flexible logistics with fast delivery within 15 days, a wide range of varieties, competitive producer-direct prices, and personalized technical support. This partnership simplifies procurement and helps farmers maintain quality production.
Does Bairiverse offer technical support for berry producers?
Yes, Bairiverse provides free, specialized technical support for market gardeners. Growers receive technical guidance, personalized advice, and assistance to optimize their growing methods and improve their productivity.
How are plants ordered from Bairiverse delivered?
Bairiverse offers delivery options tailored to farms, including direct delivery to the plot or farm, with the option of a tailgate option for large orders. This logistics ensures fast and secure delivery of plants.
What are the benefits of Bairiverse customer service?
Bairiverse provides a responsive sales team, processing quote requests in less than 48 hours and ensuring quality after-sales service. This responsiveness guarantees a smooth and professional customer experience.
Why is Bairiverse the ideal partner for diversifying a berry farm?
With a diverse offering, free technical advice, optimized logistics, and competitive prices, Bairiverse helps producers develop and diversify their berry crops. This partnership ensures consistent quality, technical support, and practical solutions tailored to the needs of each farm.
Bairiverse, your partner for nurserymen and retailers of small fruits
For berry nurseries and retailers, working with a reliable and responsive supplier offering a wide range of professional-quality plants is essential. Bairiverse, a specialist wholesaler of berry plants, offers tailor-made solutions tailored to the needs of professionals, with flexible logistics and responsive customer service. With technical advice, a free quote service, and seamless supply, Bairiverse is an ideal partner for nurseries and retailers looking to expand their offerings and meet growing customer demand for organic, conventional, and untreated plants.
Bairiverse: A Trusted Partner for Small Fruit Nurseries and Retailers
Simple and seamless agricultural supply without complications
Bairiverse simplifies the procurement process for nurseries and retailers, giving them direct access to a wide range of plants without unnecessary complexity. This seamless logistics model ensures nursery owners can quickly replenish their stock, while retailers can benefit from direct delivery to meet customer demand in-store or on-site.
The widest range of berry plants in France
Bairiverse offers an extensive varietal range that meets the specific needs of nurserymen and retailers. With plants produced by specialist nurseries in France, Bairiverse guarantees optimal quality, whether for bare-root plants, 7 cm horticultural pots, mini-plugs, or honeycomb trays. For nurserymen, this means a diverse variety to satisfy their customers' orders, while retailers have a wide selection to attract a diverse and demanding clientele.
Quality plants at competitive prices
As a wholesaler, Bairiverse offers unbeatable value for money with direct producer pricing, allowing nurserymen and resellers to achieve advantageous margins. By also offering volume-based discounts, Bairiverse encourages professionals to source quantities tailored to their needs, making their offers even more attractive to their end customers.
Careful and fast delivery throughout France
Bairiverse tailors its logistics to the specific needs of nurserymen and retailers. By offering careful and fast delivery services, Bairiverse ensures the secure delivery of plants directly to the farm, store, or customer site. Nurserymen can receive their orders within 15 days to optimize their crops, while retailers can count on timely delivery of plants for immediate availability in store.
Personalized technical advice and free quotes
With its technical support service, Bairiverse goes beyond selling plants. By offering free, personalized technical advice , the Bairiverse team helps nursery owners maximize the quality of their production. For resellers, this advice helps them better inform their customers about the specific characteristics of their plants. Bairiverse's customer service, with free quotes within 48 hours, guarantees professionals optimal responsiveness for any request or purchase planning.
Large Selection of Products for Nurseries and Small Fruit Retailers
Bairiverse provides nurserymen and resellers with a wide range of products to diversify their offering:
- Organic, conventional and untreated plants, to meet the expectations of environmentally conscious customers.
- 7 cm horticultural pots, perfect for direct sale in stores for resellers or for direct installation by nurserymen.
- Mini-plugs and honeycomb trays, ideal for wholesale orders from resellers and nursery cultivation.
- Bare root plants, economical and suitable for bulk orders.
An Expert Partner in Small Fruit Cultivation for Nurseries and Resellers
Bairiverse positions itself as a specialist in small fruit cultivation , offering nurserymen comprehensive technical support to ensure quality harvests, and retailers valuable information to answer their customers' questions. This dedicated technical support allows nurserymen to develop their crops in an optimized manner, and retailers to strengthen customer satisfaction in store or online.
A Responsive Sales and After-Sales Service for Nurseries and Resellers
Bairiverse's sales department stands out for its speed and quality after-sales service . Quotes are provided within 48 hours, and each order receives personalized follow-up. Nursery owners can therefore count on a reliable partner for their supply needs, while resellers are assured of customer service available to answer any questions related to orders and deliveries.
Bairiverse: Choose Excellence for Your Berry Plants
By choosing Bairiverse, nurserymen and resellers benefit from a strategic partnership with a supplier capable of meeting the requirements of each professional activity. With a diverse range, technical advice, and fast delivery, Bairiverse helps you expand your offering and meet the growing demand for berry plants. Order today and take advantage of our competitive prices to expand your offering and build customer loyalty!
FAQ about Bairiverse - Your Wholesale Partner for Nurserymen and Small Fruit Resellers
What types of berry plants are available at Bairiverse?
Bairiverse offers a wide range of plants, including organic, conventional, and untreated plants. These products are available in several formats, such as 7 cm horticultural pots, mini plugs, cell trays, and bare-root plants, allowing resellers to meet the diverse needs of their customers.
Why choose Bairiverse as your berry plant supplier?
Bairiverse stands out for its wide variety of varieties, competitive pricing with volume discounts, and fast delivery. In addition, the company offers personalized technical support to help resellers expand and diversify their product catalog.
Does Bairiverse offer technical advice for resellers?
Yes, Bairiverse provides free, personalized technical advice. These recommendations allow nursery owners and retailers to optimize the quality of their plants and ensure increased customer satisfaction through expert service.
How does delivery of plants ordered from Bairiverse work?
Bairiverse's logistics allow for careful and rapid delivery within 15 days. Options include direct delivery to the store, farm, or plot, ensuring that plants arrive in excellent condition, ready for sale or planting.
Does Bairiverse offer discounted pricing for bulk orders?
Yes, as a wholesaler, Bairiverse offers competitive pricing with volume discounts. This allows resellers to benefit from optimized margins when placing large orders.
How responsive is Bairiverse's sales department?
Bairiverse's sales department is highly responsive, with quotes provided within 48 hours and personalized follow-up. This responsiveness ensures resellers have a smooth and efficient customer experience, from ordering to delivery.
Why is Bairiverse the ideal partner to enhance a nursery's offering?
Bairiverse enables nursery owners to diversify and expand their catalogs with a diverse offering, technical advice, and optimized logistics. With competitive pricing and expert support, Bairiverse helps retailers expand their offerings profitably and professionally.
French Small Fruit Market in 2025
The berry market in France offers promising opportunities for market gardeners in 2025, thanks to growing demand for these prized fruits, both fresh and processed. Despite challenges related to climatic hazards, international competition, and production costs, producers can take advantage of regional specificities, financial support, and varietal innovations to develop this high-value-added sector, particularly in organic and short supply chains.
Presentation and commercial uses
Small red fruits include various species such as raspberries , gooseberries , blackcurrants and blueberries . They are generally shrubs or bushes producing edible berries appreciated for their taste and nutritional qualities . Their main commercial uses in France are:
- Fresh produce sales in markets and supermarkets, in high demand during the summer season
- Processing into jams, coulis, syrups and other derivative products
- Use in baking and catering
- Direct sales on the farm and through short supply chains, promoting local production
- Supplying the food industry (yogurts, desserts, etc.)
These fruits benefit from a positive image among consumers, associated with taste pleasure and health benefits . Their cultivation makes it possible to enhance the value of small agricultural areas, offering interesting opportunities for market gardeners .
Recent market developments
The French berry market has seen mixed developments in recent years. For the conventional market, there has been a slight increase in cultivated areas, particularly in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, which accounts for 44% of national blackcurrant production . However, volumes have fluctuated due to climatic hazards. Regarding organic, despite a general downward trend in areas under conversion (-28% in 2022), the organic berry sector has held up better thanks to sustained demand . Certified organic areas increased by 8%, reflecting growing consumer interest in local organic products .
- Conventional market: Slight increase in surface area, variable volumes
- Organic market: Growth in certified areas (+8%), decrease in conversions
- Growing demand for local and organic products
- Organic fruit and vegetable market share stable at 6.7% in volume and 7.9% in value in 2024
- Less marked decline in volume purchases for organic fruit and vegetables compared to conventional ones
Current market status
The French berry market is currently experiencing mixed dynamics. For the conventional market, cultivated areas remain stable, with a slight upward trend for certain species such as strawberries. Production volumes fluctuate depending on climatic conditions, but there is growing demand for tropical fruits such as avocados, whose consumption reached 150,000 tonnes in 2023 . The organic market, meanwhile, is experiencing a slowdown after years of strong growth. Certified organic areas for fresh fruit will represent 30,269 ha in 2022, with a notable drop in conversions (-23%) . Despite this decline, organic still represents 27% of the French fruit-growing agricultural area, demonstrating a resilient sector in the face of current economic challenges .
- Conventional: Stability of surfaces, increasing demand for certain exotic fruits
- Organic: 30,269 ha certified, slowdown in conversions but maintenance of a significant share (27% of the fruit UAA)
- General trend: Decrease in volumes purchased (-10% organic, -6% conventional), but increase in the average basket
Producing regions and terroirs
The production of small fruits in France is concentrated in several key regions, each with its own specificities:
- Hauts-de-France: Leading gooseberry producing region (27% of national areas) . Aisne specializes in raspberries, Oise in blackcurrants, and Nord-Pas-de-Calais in strawberries .
- Rhône-Alpes: Main production area for raspberries and redcurrants .
- Burgundy: Important for blackcurrant cultivation, particularly in the communes of Arcenant, Echevronne, Fussey .
- Loire Valley: Diversified production, including blueberries, raspberries and redcurrants .
- Aquitaine and Limousin: Major areas for blueberries .
Favorable regional specificities include:
- Acidic to neutral, well-drained soils for most small fruits .
- Temperate climate with good sunshine, crucial for the development of aromas .
- Altitude (e.g. 900m on average in Velay) allowing for deseasonal production .
These varied conditions allow France to cultivate a wide range of small fruits, adapted to local terroirs.
Cultural requirements and varieties
Small fruits require specific growing conditions for optimal production. The main varieties grown in France include Gariguette and Mariguette for strawberries, and Patriot for blueberries . These fruits generally prefer well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0) . Irrigation is crucial, especially for strawberries and raspberries, with a drip system recommended . Planting density varies depending on the species: 30 cm between plants for strawberries, 100-150 cm for blueberries . Yields in organic farming are generally 20-30% lower than conventionally grown. Most small fruits come into production 1-2 years after planting and remain productive for 5-10 years, depending on the species and care .
Foreign trade and competition
France occupies a modest position on the international berry market, with insufficient production to meet domestic demand. Imports play a crucial role, particularly for raspberries and blueberries, where only 15% of consumption is covered by French production . The main suppliers are Spain, Peru, Chile, and Mexico, whose combined share reaches 51.4% of fresh berry imports . This dependence on imports exerts competitive pressure on French producers, particularly in terms of price, with Spain, for example, producing tomatoes at 1 euro less per kilo . However, this situation also offers opportunities for the development of local production, particularly in short supply chains and organic, to meet the growing demand for quality French products .
Development opportunities
The French berry market offers significant opportunities for local producers, both conventional and organic. For the conventional market, diversification into berries represents a promising growth strategy, allowing the exploitation of new segments and reducing the risks associated with a single production . The growing imports of raspberries (+100%), blackberries (+150%) and blueberries (+500%) over ten years reveal significant development potential for national production .
In the organic sector, despite a recent slowdown, opportunities remain numerous. Institutional aid, such as the "Ambition Bio 2017" program, aims to double the area under organic farming . Consumer demand for local and traceable organic products remains strong, offering opportunities in short supply chains, supermarkets and artisanal processing. Producers can benefit from investment aid from various organizations such as Regional Councils or FranceAgriMer to develop their organic projects .
Profitability and financial aid
Organic berry production has production costs that are approximately 20 to 30% higher than conventional production, mainly due to higher labor costs and generally lower yields . However, the selling prices of organic berries are on average 44% higher than their conventional equivalents, which helps to offset these additional costs . Potential profitability remains attractive, with gross margins reaching €15,000 to €20,000/ha for certain species such as raspberries or blueberries, compared to alternative crops such as cereals .
To support this sector, several aid schemes are available. Conversion aid (CAB) and maintenance aid (MAB) offer financial support to organic producers, with amounts varying depending on the crops . The organic tax credit, increased to €3,500, is also available to farms generating more than 40% of their income from organic products . In addition, an exceptional support fund of 105 million euros has been set up in 2024 to help organic farms that have suffered economic losses, demonstrating the commitment of public authorities to this promising sector.
Sector challenges and risks
The market for both conventional and organic berries is facing significant challenges. In the conventional sector, international competition, particularly from Poland, is exerting strong pressure on prices . Climatic hazards can lead to production losses ranging from 30 to 70% depending on the plots, while phytosanitary risks increase with a limited number of approved products . In addition, the presence of pesticide residues in more than 70% of conventional fruits raises concerns among consumers .
For the organic market, the main constraints are linked to high production costs, resulting from a more labor-intensive cultivation method . Strict regulations involve regular inspections and costly certifications. Competition is intensifying in the organic market, with supply growing faster than demand, putting downward pressure on prices . Organic berries cost 30% to 50% more than their conventional counterparts, which may hinder their adoption by consumers .
Innovations and future perspectives
The berry sector in France is experiencing a promising dynamic of innovation. Research is focusing on developing varieties that are more disease-resistant and adapted to climate change, such as the ever-bearing Kwanza raspberry or the Sekoya Pop blueberry . Agroecological practices are gaining ground, with the increasing adoption of techniques such as dynamic population management and participatory selection, allowing for better local adaptation of varieties .
By 2030, the market is expected to experience sustained growth, driven by changing eating habits and growing demand for healthy, local products . The goal of some brands, such as Pink Lady, to reach 100 million annual European consumers by 2030 illustrates this potential . The integration of advanced technologies, such as nanotechnology and precision agriculture, is also expected to revolutionize farming practices, improving yields and fruit quality .
Recommendations for market gardeners
Growing small fruits offers interesting opportunities for French market gardeners, but requires careful consideration before embarking on the venture. Advantages include growing demand, potentially high margins, and the opportunity to diversify production . However, this crop presents challenges such as high installation costs, sensitivity to climatic hazards and increased international competition .
For an informed decision, here are some recommendations:
- Carefully assess your land and water resources, which are essential for the success of these crops .
- Start small to test different varieties and techniques before investing heavily .
- Favor short circuits and direct sales to maximize margins .
- Consider organic certification to meet the growing demand for local and organic products .
- Learn specific growing and disease management techniques for these delicate fruits .
- Explore the financial assistance available for organic installation and conversion .
By taking a step-by-step approach and leveraging local resources and available support, integrating berries can become a major asset for your market gardening operation.
Specialist suppliers and consultants
For professional market gardeners looking for quality berry plants or advice on planting a plot, two specialist suppliers stand out on the French market:
- Bairiverse ( https://plantspetitsfruits.com/ ): Wholesale supplier offering a wide range of small fruit plants in various formats (mini-balls, pots, pots). They offer organic and conventional plants, with a responsive sales service and fast delivery throughout France .
- Econome à Légumes ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ): Trader in plants and plant material, offering producer prices and direct delivery to the farm. They supply organic and conventional plants, with a focus on quality and customer service .
These two companies not only offer quality plants, but also personalized technical support, advice on the choice of varieties and growing routes adapted to your project. Their expertise can prove invaluable in optimizing your berry production .
French gooseberry market in 2025
Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa), a shrub native to the Caucasus and northern Ukraine, is a popular choice for its tangy berries, which have multiple culinary uses and nutritional benefits. In France, this crop is experiencing renewed interest thanks to diversification opportunities, growing production, and sustainability-focused innovations, despite challenges related to international competition and the organic market.
Presentation and commercial uses
Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) is a thorny shrub native to the Caucasus and northern Ukraine, growing between 50 cm and 1.5 metres in height . Its fruits, called gooseberries, are oval berries 1.5 cm in diameter, which can be white, red, yellow or green depending on the variety . These fruits are distinguished by their thick, slightly fuzzy skin and juicy, tangy flesh .
In France, gooseberries are experiencing a renewed interest, particularly in contemporary cuisine where their acidity is sought after . Their main commercial uses include fresh consumption, processing into jams, and use as an accompaniment to meat or fish dishes . Additionally, these berries are valued for their nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins C, A and B, as well as minerals such as calcium and potassium . Their low sugar content and diuretic and digestive properties also make them a product of choice for health-conscious consumers .
Evolution of the French market
The French gooseberry market has seen mixed trends in recent years. For the conventional market, production increased from 80,512 metric tons in 2019 to 90,904.3 metric tons in 2021 . This growth reflects increased demand, both domestically and for export. However, the organic sector has faced challenges. In 2023, the organic vegetable sector suffered a 6% decline in its agricultural area . This decline is part of a broader trend in the French organic market, which has seen its share in consumers' shopping baskets decrease slightly, from 6% in 2022 to 5.6% in 2023, mainly due to inflation .
Key points:
- Increase in conventional gooseberry production
- Decline in organic vegetable farming areas
- Slight drop in the share of organic products in consumption
- Inflation impacting organic products less (+8%) than conventional products (+12%)
- Growth in direct sales (+9% in 2023), reaching 14% of the organic market
Current market status
The French gooseberry market is currently experiencing moderate growth, reflecting trends in the European market, which dominates global production with a 90% market share. In 2024, the French conventional market represents around 10% of European production, or approximately 9,000 metric tonnes . Cultivated areas are estimated at around 500 hectares, mainly in the North-East and Central regions of France.
For the organic market, despite a slight general decline in the organic sector in France, demand for organic gooseberries remains stable. The area cultivated organically is estimated at around 50 hectares, producing nearly 450 tonnes per year . There is a growing trend towards product diversification, with an increase in demand for specific varieties such as Crispa varianta, suitable for organic cultivation . Organic producers are banking on the quality and health benefits of gooseberries to maintain consumer interest, despite current economic challenges .
Favorable regions and terroirs
The main gooseberry-producing regions in France are the Northeast (Grand Est, Hauts-de-France) and the Centre-Val de Loire. These regions benefit from favorable climatic conditions with cool, humid summers and harsh winters, ideal for growing this shrub .
Gooseberry thrives particularly in semi-mountainous areas and appreciates heavy, clayey soils . Producing regions generally offer:
- A temperate climate with good summer rainfall
- Deep, fresh soils rich in organic matter
- A sunny or partially shaded location, protected from strong winds
- Low winter temperatures, promoting plant dormancy
These specific conditions explain the concentration of production in these regions, where market gardeners can optimize their yields while benefiting from a terroir conducive to the quality of the fruit .
Varieties and cultivation techniques
The main gooseberry varieties grown in France include ' Germania ' (early red fruits), ' Varianta ' (tart golden fruits), and ' Freedonia ' (thornless, burgundy-red fruits) . These shrubs thrive in moist, rich, well-drained soil, preferring clay loam . They tolerate partial shade but produce best in full sun with good air circulation .
The recommended planting density is approximately 1.20 m between plants . Irrigation is crucial, especially during times of drought . Average yields vary between 2 and 3 kg per plant in conventional farming, while in organic farming they are slightly lower. Gooseberry bushes come into production in the second year and remain productive for 8 to 10 years . To optimize cultivation, it is advisable to add compost in the spring and crushed horn in the fall.
Trade and international competition
France occupies a modest position in the international gooseberry market, with production primarily intended for domestic consumption. Europe dominates the global market, accounting for 90% of total production, with Russia, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom as the main producers.
French gooseberry imports come mainly from neighboring European countries, notably the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland. Although exact import volumes are not specified, they remain relatively small compared to domestic production. These imports have a limited impact on French production, as they mainly supplement local supply during off-season periods. However, competition from imported products encourages French producers to differentiate themselves by focusing on quality, local varieties, and sustainable production methods to maintain their position in the national market.
Development opportunities
The gooseberry market offers interesting opportunities for French producers, both in the conventional and organic sectors. In the conventional sector, the growing demand for natural and functional products is paving the way for a diversification of offers, particularly towards gooseberry extracts used in the food and cosmetics industries . Producers can explore new industrial opportunities, such as the production of standardized extracts for food supplements and nutraceuticals .
For the organic market, despite a slight slowdown, the outlook remains promising. The trend towards organic and sustainable production methods meets the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers . Organic producers can benefit from institutional support for converting to and maintaining organic farming. In addition, the growing demand for organic ready-to-eat (RTE) and ready-to-eat (RTE) products offers opportunities for developing new organic gooseberry-based products .
Profitability and financial aid
Gooseberry production offers interesting economic potential for French market gardeners. Conventionally grown, the average yield varies from 2 to 4 kg per plant per year, with an average selling price of 14 to 20 euros per kg for fresh produce . For organic crops, the yield is slightly lower, 1 to 2 kg per plant . However, the profitability of organic production is supported by specific aid, in particular conversion aid and maintenance aid .
In terms of profitability, gooseberry cultivation compares favorably with other crops. Gross margins can reach 700-1000 kg per 1000 m² per year, which is competitive compared with other market garden crops. To support this sector, the government has put in place aid schemes, including a €105 million budget in 2024 for organic farming . Producers can also benefit from an organic tax credit increased to €3,500, as well as regional aid for certification, installation and investments .
Sector challenges and risks
The gooseberry market, both conventional and organic, faces several challenges. The volatility of agricultural prices, a characteristic of agricultural markets, represents a major risk for producers by depriving them of the visibility necessary to increase their investments . This instability is particularly pronounced for sectors with low potential, where the increase in production costs can vary from €37 to €87/t depending on the scenarios .
The organic market faces multiple constraints. Strict regulations and high production costs can make it difficult for organic farms to achieve economic stability, as they experience lower yields than conventional agriculture . In addition, the risk of trivialization in the eyes of consumers and increased competition from new regulatory constraints imposed on conventional products threaten the differentiation of organic products . The loss of consumer confidence and the possible disappearance of specialist distribution also constitute serious threats to the organic sector .
Innovations and future prospects
The gooseberry sector is experiencing a promising dynamic of innovation. Research is underway to develop varieties that are more disease-resistant and better adapted to changing climatic conditions . The integration of agroecological practices, such as participatory selection involving farmers, is gaining ground to create more hardy and genetically diverse population varieties. These approaches aim to improve the resilience of crops to environmental stresses.
In the medium term, the market is expected to experience sustained growth, with projections reaching USD 1.92 billion by 2029 . This expansion will likely be driven by growing demand for natural and functional products, as well as the emergence of new opportunities in the food, cosmetics and nutraceutical industries . The emphasis on the health benefits of gooseberries, including their antioxidant properties, is expected to drive innovation in processed products and dietary supplements . The trend towards more sustainable agriculture and the demand for organic products could also influence the evolution of the market, with an expected growth of 3 to 5% in volume for the organic sector by 2025 .
Recommendations for market gardeners
The integration of gooseberry cultivation presents significant advantages for French market gardeners. This crop offers an interesting diversification with an attractive yield potential of 2 to 3 kg per plant in conventional farming . In addition, the growing demand for natural and functional products opens up new market opportunities .
However, the challenges are not insignificant. The crop requires special attention to irrigation, especially during periods of drought . Producers also have to deal with price volatility and competition from European imports .
Recommendations for market gardeners:
- Favor varieties adapted to the local terroir and resistant to diseases such as ' Varianta ' or ' Freedonia ' .
- Adopt agroecological practices to improve crop resilience and reduce costs.
- Explore processing and direct sales opportunities to increase added value .
- Consider organic conversion to benefit from specific aid and meet the growing demand for organic products .
- Invest in training and innovation to optimize cultivation and marketing techniques.
In conclusion, gooseberry cultivation can be a viable option for French market gardeners willing to invest in quality production and explore new markets. A strategic approach, combining innovation and sustainability, will be essential for success in this rapidly evolving sector.
Suppliers and professional advice
To obtain quality gooseberry plants or personalized advice for planting your plot, two specialized suppliers are at your disposal:
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Bairiverse ( https://plantspetitsfruits.com/ ): Wholesale supplier offering a wide range of small fruit plants, including gooseberries. They offer plants in various formats (mini-plugs, pots, pots) adapted to the needs of professionals . Their customer service is responsive, with a response within 48 hours .
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Vegetable Econome ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ): Trader in plants and plant material, offering decreasing prices according to volume and direct delivery to your farm . They have an organic and conventional range, and their sales team is available for personalized advice.
These two companies offer technical expertise and support to optimize your gooseberry production, from varietal selection to planting .
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