US blackberry production: U-pick farms are growing in Texas

Published Jun 10, 2024

Tridge summary

Texas is expanding its agricultural repertoire by growing more blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, with blackberries being the most popular lesser-known fruit crop. Blueberries are mainly grown in East Texas due to their need for acidic soil and good drainage. The single rabbiteye blueberry plant can produce up to 15 pounds of berries annually. The state is also looking into alternative production methods, including protected cultivation of raspberries, to increase profitability and address climate challenges. Despite the challenges of disease, drought, and extreme heat, fig trees perform well in many parts of the state. Agriculture in Texas faces various issues, including damage from storms and hail, declining forage conditions leading to supplementation, and tough management decisions for livestock. However, livestock conditions are generally good, and cattle prices remain strong.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

While Texas is famous for its Ruby Red grapefruit and is the nation’s top producer of watermelons, some well-known but lesser-grown fruits like blackberries, blueberries and raspberries are finding their place in its fields, orchards and gardens. “The lesser-known fruit crop with the most acres and most continued growth in the state would be blackberries,” said Larry Stein, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist based in Uvalde. “New Arkansas varieties of blackberries have been performing well and this year is no exception. And the new Arkansas varieties can be grown pretty much throughout the state.” Brazos, Rosborough and Kiowa blackberries are also grown in the state. Blueberries are another popular fruit for growers, but Stein said blueberry production is “mainly an East Texas thing.” They can, however, do well in other areas with more acidic soils, as long as drainage is good. According to AgriLife Extension horticulturists, the best blueberry for Texas is the ...

Source: Farm Progress