Collection: Our quality Conventional Blueberry Plants for professional market gardeners

The blueberry market in France continues to grow rapidly, driven by diverse demand ranging from fresh consumption to processing into food products, cosmetics, and dietary supplements. Despite domestic production still being insufficient to meet consumption, opportunities for local producers are multiplying thanks to the increase in cultivated areas, varietal innovations, and financial support, while also facing the challenges of international competition and the specific requirements of this crop.

Blueberry and its fruits

The blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a subshrub of the Ericaceae family, producing small blue-purple berries called bilberries . These fruits, with a mild and slightly sweet flavor, are rich in antioxidants and nutrients . In France, the main commercial uses of blueberries include:

• Fresh consumption, very popular in summer
• Transformation into dried products for infusions and pastries
• Use as an ingredient in the food and beverage industry
• The production of food supplements and cosmetic products, exploiting their antioxidant properties
• The production of blueberry wines, taking advantage of their natural bloom

The growing demand for these varied uses is stimulating the development of the blueberry industry in France, offering new perspectives to producers .

Evolution of the French market

The French blueberry market has experienced significant growth in recent years, both in the conventional and organic sectors. In 2022, the total production area increased by 6%, reflecting the growing interest of producers . The conventional market has seen a steady increase in volumes, driven by increased consumer demand, with consumption increasing sixfold in volume since 2017 .

For the organic market, despite a general downward trend in other agricultural sectors, organic blueberries are maintaining their momentum. Les Jardins Bio du Médoc, for example, cultivate 100,000 blueberry bushes on 28 hectares, illustrating the growth potential of the organic sector . However, national production remains insufficient, with France producing only 11% of its total blueberry consumption, which leaves significant room for future market development, both conventional and organic.

Current market status

The French blueberry market will continue to grow in 2025, with an increase in cultivated areas and production volumes. In the conventional sector, national production reaches around 5,000 tonnes, now covering almost 15% of total consumption . Cultivated areas increased by around 8% compared to 2022, reaching nearly 1,200 hectares .

For the organic market, despite a general slowdown in the organic sector, blueberries are holding up better than other crops. Certified organic areas increased by 3% in 2024, while areas in conversion decreased by 37% . Demand remains strong, particularly through short supply chains and direct sales, which have grown by 9% . However, sales in large-scale distribution have fallen by 3.8%, reflecting a general trend in the organic market to favor local channels.

French regions and terroirs

The main blueberry-producing regions in France are Ardèche, Lozère, Vosges, the Alps and Brittany . Ardèche stands out as the leading producer of wild blueberries, where production extends over a third of the department, mainly in the Monts d'Ardèche Regional Natural Park .

Regional specificities favorable to blueberry cultivation include:

• An acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6, typical of granite or schist soils
• An altitude generally above 600 meters, although some varieties can be grown at lower altitudes
• A cool, sunny climate, with a preference for partial shade in more southern regions
• Well-drained, light soils rich in organic matter

These conditions are particularly present in mountain ranges and areas with granite subsoil, explaining the concentration of production in these regions .

Blueberry cultivation

The main blueberry varieties grown in France include Bluecrop , Duke , Draper and Liberty . These plants require acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5), well-drained and rich in organic matter . Regular irrigation is crucial, with 7-10 mm of water per day in summer . The recommended planting density is approximately 2000 plants per hectare .

Average yields vary between 8-9 tonnes/ha in conventional farming and slightly less in organic farming . Blueberry bushes come into production 2-3 years after planting and can remain productive for 30 to 50 years with proper maintenance . The shrub tolerates temperatures between 20-26°C, with a maximum of 35°C . Regular mulching and organic fertilization are essential to maintain soil acidity and promote optimal growth .

Trade and international competition

France occupies a modest position in the international blueberry market, representing only 0.1% of global production in 2021 with around 2,000 tonnes produced . This limited production only covers 13% of national needs, forcing the country to import massively to meet growing demand .

French blueberry imports come mainly from Spain (45%) and Morocco (21%), followed by Peru and Chile which together represent 8% of imports, especially for winter demand . Imported volumes have experienced tremendous growth, with an increase of 743% between 2003 and 2023 . This strong dependence on imports has a significant impact on French production, creating intense competition on the national market, particularly in terms of price and availability throughout the year .

The competitive impact of imports is particularly felt during the French production season. Even in the height of summer, 75% of blueberries consumed in June are imported, 50% in July and almost a third in August . This situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for French producers, who must stand out through the quality and freshness of their local products to conquer a larger share of the expanding national market.

Opportunities for French producers

The French blueberry market offers significant opportunities for local producers, both in the conventional and organic sectors. In the conventional market, the development potential is considerable, with French consumption remaining modest at only 150 grams per year per capita, compared to 700 grams in Germany and 1.3 kg in the United States . This margin of progression represents a real growth opportunity for French producers.

For the organic market, despite a general slowdown in the sector, organic blueberries are maintaining their momentum, notably thanks to growing demand via short supply chains and direct sales, which have grown by 9% . Producers can benefit from institutional support for converting to organic and meeting specific consumer expectations in terms of quality and traceability. Diversification into processed blueberry products, such as food supplements and cosmetics, also offers promising opportunities for French producers, taking advantage of the antioxidant properties of this fruit .

Profitability and financial aid

Blueberry production in France presents significant differences between conventional and organic methods. The cost of organic production is generally higher, but this difference is offset by higher sales prices . Soilless cultivation allows for maintaining high yield potential over the long term, offering an attractive opportunity for growers .

To support the development of the sector, several aid schemes are available. Organic processing and marketing companies can benefit from public aid from various financiers such as Regional Councils, Water Agencies, ADEME and FranceAgriMer . Specific aid exists for conversion to organic farming, market gardening and the eco-regime . In addition, FranceAgriMer's orchard renovation program offers subsidies for land preparation, planting and the purchase of seedlings, with aid limited to 40 hectares per farm and 30 hectares per species .

Sector challenges and risks

The blueberry market in France faces several significant challenges. In the conventional sector, international competition, particularly from Morocco and Spain, is exerting significant pressure on prices . French producers also have to face increasing phytosanitary risks, with diseases such as grey mold, powdery mildew and root rot affecting 66%, 45% and 39% of farms respectively .

For the organic market, constraints are linked to higher production costs and strict regulations. Organic certification and required cultivation practices increase costs, while competition intensifies with the arrival of new players on the market . In addition, organic producers face specific challenges such as pest management without synthetic pesticides, notably Aphis spp. which affects 82% of farms . Demand volatility, influenced by economic factors such as inflation, also represents a significant risk for all producers .

Innovations and future perspectives

The blueberry sector in France is experiencing significant advances in innovation and research. Efforts are being made to develop varieties that are more disease-resistant and better adapted to local climatic conditions. Agroecological practices are gaining ground, including the exploration of wild blueberry cultivation as a sustainable and profitable alternative . This approach, requiring few inputs and offering limited production costs, is part of an ecological approach while meeting the growing demand for local and natural products.

In the medium term, the French blueberry market is expected to continue its growth, driven by increased consumer demand for healthy, antioxidant-rich foods. Estimates suggest that the European blueberry market size could reach USD 12.40 billion by 2029 . For French producers, this represents an opportunity to develop new outlets, particularly in the food supplement and cosmetics sectors, while strengthening their position on the domestic market in the face of international competition . Adopting sustainable practices and investing in improved varieties will be crucial to meeting this growing demand while maintaining the quality and competitiveness of French production.

Market gardening opportunities and strategies

Blueberry cultivation presents interesting opportunities for French market gardeners, but requires careful consideration before embarking on it.

Benefits :

• Fast-growing market with increasing consumer demand
• Potential for diversification of income and outlets (fresh, processed, cosmetics)
• Perennial crop that can remain productive for 30 to 50 years

Disadvantages:

• High initial investment (around €26,000/ha)
• Specific soil and climate requirements
• Strong international competition, particularly from Spain and Morocco

Recommendations:

• Carefully assess the soil and climate conditions of your farm
• Favor varieties adapted to your region and the targeted marketing channels
• Consider soilless cultivation to overcome soil constraints
• Focus on quality and freshness to stand out from imports
• Explore opportunities in organic farming and short supply chains
• Find out about the assistance available for organic installation and conversion

A thorough analysis of the local market and your investment capabilities is crucial before embarking on this demanding but potentially profitable crop.

Blueberry plant suppliers

For market gardeners and professional producers looking for quality blueberry 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 blueberries, in different formats (mini-plugs, 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, specializing in the supply of plants for French professional producers. They offer decreasing prices according to volume and ensure direct delivery to the farm .

Both companies offer not only quality plants, but also personalized technical support, from variety selection to growing advice. Their expertise can be invaluable in optimizing your blueberry production and maximizing your profitability .

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 .