Collection: Blackberry Pot for professional Growers

In 2025, the French blackberry market will continue to expand, driven by growing demand for this prized fruit, both fresh and in processed products such as jams and juices. Despite challenges related to international competition and production constraints, this sector offers interesting opportunities for market gardeners, particularly thanks to the rise of short supply chains, sustainable practices, and varietal innovations adapted to climate change.

Presentation and commercial uses

The mulberry tree is a medium-sized tree or shrub (10 to 15 meters) belonging to the Moraceae family . Its fruits, called blackberries, are compound fruits formed of small, tightly packed drupelets . There are mainly two species cultivated in France: the white mulberry (Morus alba) and the black mulberry (Morus nigra), whose fruits differ in their color, taste and period of maturity .

In France, the main commercial uses of blackberries are fresh consumption and processing into food products such as jams, syrups, and juices. Mulberry leaves, particularly those of the white mulberry, are also used in the silk industry to feed silkworms . In addition, some parts of the tree find applications in herbal medicine and cosmetics, thus offering diversification opportunities for market gardeners .

Evolution of the French market

The French blackberry market has seen mixed developments over the past three years. Conventionally, cultivated areas have remained relatively stable, at around 200 hectares, with a slight increase in production volumes thanks to improved cultivation techniques . Growing consumer demand for this fruit has boosted production, although volumes remain modest compared to other small fruits.

For the organic market, we observe a more marked dynamic. The areas certified organic or in conversion increased by approximately 15% over the period, reaching nearly 50 hectares in 2024 . This growth reflects the growing interest of consumers in organic products, despite an overall slowdown in the organic market in supermarkets . However, the sector is facing challenges, notably a drop in volumes sold in mass distribution, partly offset by the development of short circuits and direct sales .

Current market status

The French blackberry market in 2024-2025 shows contrasting trends between conventional and organic products. In conventional production, cultivated areas reach around 220 hectares, with an estimated production of 1,100 tonnes. There is a slight increase in demand, particularly in traditional distribution channels. The organic market, meanwhile, covers nearly 55 hectares, producing around 220 tonnes of certified blackberries. Despite an overall slowdown in the organic market, the organic blackberry sector shows notable resilience, with an 8.4% increase in turnover in specialist stores in the first half of 2024. This positive dynamic is supported by the growth of short supply chains and direct sales, which partially offset the decline observed in mass distribution .

Producing regions and terroirs

Blackberry production in France remains relatively limited, with a few dominant regions. The Rhône-Alpes region stands out as the main growing area, followed by Limousin and Périgord . These regions benefit from climatic and soil conditions favorable to the cultivation of mulberry trees.

Regional specificities play a crucial role in the success of this culture:

• Climate: Mulberry trees adapt well to temperate climates, with a preference for warm summers and mild winters. Brittany, for example, is experiencing growing dynamism in the production of small fruits, including blackberries, thanks to its oceanic climate .
• Soils: Mulberry trees thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Loamy clay soils, common in these regions, are particularly suitable .
• Exposure: A sunny exposure sheltered from cold winds encourages the growth and fruiting of mulberry trees .

However, climate change poses new challenges, particularly in terms of water management and adaptation to increasingly frequent summer droughts, particularly in Burgundy-Franche-Comté .

Essential growing techniques

The main mulberry varieties grown in France are the black mulberry (Morus nigra) and the white mulberry (Morus alba). There are also thornless varieties such as ' Black Satin ' and ' Triple Crown ', appreciated for their ease of harvesting .

Agronomic requirements:

• Soil: Well-drained, rich in humus, slightly acidic to neutral pH
• Climate: Adapted to temperate climates, resistant to heat (up to 38°C)
• Irrigation: Regular watering, especially for young plants
• Density: Spacing of 1.5 to 2 meters between plants

Average yields in conventional farming can reach 20 kg per plant for certain varieties . In organic farming, yields are generally 25 to 30% lower . Production begins in the first year for certain varieties such as 'Reuben', but full production is reached after 3 years . A well-maintained plantation can remain productive for 15 to 20 years.

Trade and international competition

France occupies a modest position in the international blackberry market, with limited production compared to the world's major producers. The main suppliers of imported blackberries to France are Spain, Mexico and Morocco . Import volumes have increased in recent years, reaching around 3,000 tonnes in 2024, mainly to meet growing off-season demand .

The competitive impact of imports on French production is significant, particularly in terms of price. Imported blackberries, often cheaper, exert downward pressure on the prices of local products. However, French producers rely on the quality and freshness of their fruit to stand out. The growing trend towards local consumption and short supply chains also offers opportunities for national blackberry producers to position themselves in niche markets with higher added value .

Development opportunities

The blackberry market in France offers interesting opportunities for producers, both conventional and organic. In conventional production, diversification into processed products such as jams, juices, and syrups represents growth potential, particularly to meet demand from the agri-food industry . Producers can also explore opportunities in the growing food supplement sector .

For the organic market, despite an overall slowdown, organic blackberries show remarkable resilience with growth of 8.4% in specialist stores . Organic producers can benefit from an emergency fund of 94 million euros and an increased budget for promotion via the Organic Agency . The growing demand for local and sustainable products offers opportunities in short supply chains and direct sales, allowing producers to better promote their production while meeting consumer expectations in terms of quality and traceability .

Profitability and financial aid

Blackberry production presents significant differences between conventional and organic farming in terms of costs and profitability. In conventional farming, production costs are generally lower, but margins can be reduced due to competition from imports. In organic farming, costs are higher, particularly for installation and maintenance, but higher sales prices help to compensate for this difference .

The potential profitability of blackberries is attractive compared to other crops, with gross margins reaching €384/ha on average . To support the transition to organic, specific aid is available, such as Conversion to Organic Agriculture (CAB) and the eco-Regime . In addition, a €105 million emergency fund has been set up to support organic farms that have suffered economic losses, providing additional support to organic blackberry producers.

Sector challenges and risks

Blackberry production in France faces several challenges, both in the conventional and organic markets. In the conventional market, competition from imports, particularly from Spain and Morocco, is putting pressure on prices . The volatility of agricultural markets and speculation on raw materials accentuate this instability . Phytosanitary risks, such as the phytoplasma responsible for bramble stunting, require increased vigilance and costly preventive measures .

For the organic market, the constraints are specific. Strict regulations impose higher production costs, with yields generally 25 to 30% lower than conventional . Organic producers face additional costs related to additional labor and alternative crop protection techniques . In addition, competition is intensifying in the organic market, with increasing supply in the face of stabilizing demand, which may put downward pressure on prices . Producers also have to deal with increased risks of allergies and poisoning linked to the use of natural products whose safety is not always fully established .

Innovations and future prospects

The blackberry sector in France is experiencing significant advances in innovation and research. Work is underway to develop varieties that are more disease-resistant and adapted to climate change, particularly through participatory breeding programs involving researchers and farmers . These initiatives aim to create genetically heterogeneous population varieties, offering better resilience to environmental variations . At the same time, the adoption of agroecological practices, such as the use of cover crops and crop diversification, is gaining ground to improve the sustainability of farms.

In the medium term, the blackberry market is expected to experience sustained growth, part of the broader trend of the plant-based protein market, estimated at $162 billion by 2030 . The shift towards more sustainable production systems and the integration of advanced technologies, such as nanotechnology, into agroecological practices should stimulate innovation and open up new opportunities . Furthermore, adaptation to climate change could allow the introduction of new mulberry varieties in previously unsuitable areas, thus diversifying national production .

Recommendations for market gardeners

Integrating blackberry cultivation presents advantages and disadvantages for French market gardeners. The main advantages include growing demand, attractive prices, and diversification opportunities. However, the disadvantages include sensitivity to climatic conditions, high organic production costs, and increased competition from imports.

Recommendations for market gardeners considering this crop:

• Favor short circuits and direct sales to maximize margins
• Choose varieties adapted to the local terroir and resistant to diseases
• Invest in sustainable growing techniques such as cover crops and crop diversification
• Consider processing (jams, juices) to enhance production and reduce losses
• Exploring opportunities in the organic market, despite higher costs, due to its continued growth
• Integrate effective pollination practices, such as the use of bumblebees, to improve yields
• Training in specific techniques for managing soil fertility in diversified market gardening

A thorough analysis of the local market and available resources is essential before embarking on this cultivation. Success will depend on the ability to adapt to the specific conditions of the farm and meet the constantly changing market demands.

Specialist suppliers and consultants

For professional market gardeners looking for quality mulberry 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, including mulberry trees. They offer plants in various formats (mini-plugs, pots, pots) adapted to the needs of professionals . Their sales department is responsive, with a response within 48 hours, and they ensure rapid delivery throughout France .
• Econome à Légumes ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ): A trader in plants and plant material, this company specializes in supplying plants to French professional producers. They offer decreasing prices based on volume and a responsive sales service .

These two suppliers not only offer quality plants, but also personalized technical support. They can advise you on the choice of varieties, planting techniques and cultivation management, adapted to your terroir and your production objectives . Do not hesitate to contact them to obtain a personalized quote and benefit from their expertise in the field of berries.

How to choose your variety of Mulberry?

Are you looking to plant mulberry trees on your plot but unsure which mulberry variety to choose? This mulberry variety guide lists the main varieties, along with their characteristics and uses. For farm sales, supermarket sales, or processing? There's something for everyone.

If you are looking for another variety of mulberry trees, please do not hesitate to contact us: contact us

Our ranges of Mulberries:

Organic Mulberry Range for Professionals

Conventional Mulberry Range for Professionals

Mulberry Variety Guides:

When to plant mulberry trees? When to harvest blackberries?

Do you want to start growing blackberries but don't know when to plant them? Do you also want to know when you'll be harvesting them?

On this page you will find the planting and harvesting periods for each variety of blackberry.

Black Satin Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Period

Black Satin Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Black Satin Mulberry is from late July to October. Black Satin Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

Dirksen Mulberry Tree: Planting and Harvesting Period

Dirksen Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Dirksen Mulberry is from August to early September. Dirksen Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

Loch Ness Mulberry Tree: Planting and Harvesting Time

Loch Ness Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period of Loch Ness Mulberry is from August to October. Loch Ness Mulberry is a non-everbearing variety.

Smoothstem Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Time

Smoothstem Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Smoothstem Mulberry is from September to October. Smoothstem Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

Thornfree Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Time

Thornfree Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period of Thornfree Mulberry is from July to September. Thornfree Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

Triple Crown Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Time

The Triple Crown Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for the Triple Crown Mulberry is from August to September. The Triple Crown Mulberry is a non-everbearing variety.

Hirtus Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Period

Hirtus Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Hirtus Mulberry is from August to September. Hirtus Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

Darrow Mulberry: Planting and Harvesting Period

Darrow Mulberry is planted from September to November or from February to May. The fruiting/harvesting period for Darrow Mulberry is from July to August. Darrow Mulberry is a non-remontant variety.

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 .