According to Blueberries Consulting, wherein the last decade the question was how blueberry supply could keep up with demand, now the question is how to make demand keep up with supply. The supply of fresh berries on the world market grew again in 2022, with blueberry exports in particular showing a constant increase that is forecasted to continue in the coming years, driven by the expansion of production in countries such as Peru, Mexico and Morocco.l The United States is the world's largest producer of blueberries, with at least 14 states growing the new super berry with Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and Georgia leading the charge. California Berry Genetics is one of the top blueberry breeders and nurseries in the country and is bringing farmers exotic new varietals that are evolving the blueberry category with larger, sweeter, and more unique cultivars.

Blueberry production in the United States has increased significantly over the last decade, in part because of consumer demand. Blueberries have tremendous flavor and health benefits, and can be enjoyed either whole or as extracts and powders in nutrition supplements and healthier packaged foods. One innovation that made this growth possible is genetic adaptations that help create a quality, high-yield, disease-resistant crop.2 The CoFounders of California Berry Genetics, Greg and Monica Willems are one of the leading blueberry nurseries and varietal importers in the United States. They are on the forefront of the rapid genetic progress of this specialty crop, having worked with thousands of seedling trials, and are introducing new exotic cultivars to the industry. The seasoned team is sharing its blueberry varietals with farms throughout the United States and internationally.

California Berry Genetics is working with renowned blueberry breeder and Horticulture Professor, Scott NeSmith of the University of Georgia to develop a program that will provide farmers access to the most innovative, flavorful, efficient and emerging blueberry cultivars available. These new cultivars feature rich flavors, large berries and ideal mouth feel which makes them exceedingly appealing to consumers. For farmers, California Berry Genetics' new varietals work well with a machine harvest, which is ideal for operations facing labor shortages and those that are keeping food safety top of mind. These blueberries are also a high yield crop.

Willems opened the nursery in California in 2019. Each year they evaluate 15-17,000 individual plants for texture, flavor, sugar bricks, storage ability and more to find the perfect genetic parents. Following years of this meticulous process of growing, testing, breeding and consulting with NeSmith, California Berry Genetics is now sharing their success with U.S. farmers in their mission to evolve the blueberry category through the introduction of exotic, new cultivars that will drive market demand across sectors. California Berry Genetics is selling elevated blueberry varieties bred by NeSmith:

 • Sweet Duchess — a low chill blueberry that is ideal for growing in warmer climates. This varietal offers robust flavor, firmness and shelf life. The aromatic sweet intense blueberry flavor makes this variety the leading variety where sweet flavorful fruit is desired.

• Early Duchess — another low chill, firm blueberry with an inviting color and bloom. Early Duchess berries generally grow quickly and produce high yields. Extremely large berries and compact ripening make this variety ideal for early season production. If a jumbo program is the target market this variety will be the buyers top choice. Late blooming and early ripening is the main advantage for Early Duchess.

• Blue Duchess — these outstanding berries offer an exceptional crunch and elevated crispy flavor. They are a favorite amongst farmers and consumers alike. Upright growth and narrow crown make this an ideal variety for machine harvest.

California Berry Genetics doesn't just sell exceptional varieties to farmers, they also share best practices from soil nutrition to pruning and horticultural care to help make their partners successful. California Berry Genetics gives them the foundation for success by assessing land and providing plant materials and infrastructure, consulting on cultivation, sustainability, culture, research and bringing the product to market.

"The berries that Scott NeSmith has bred taste better than any blueberry I've ever tasted; they truly stand out from what is on the market right now," says California Berry Genetics CEO, Greg Willems. "We are excited to help farmers successfully grow their crops and bring these flavorful, evolved berries to the world."

Greg and Monica come from legacy farming families. Both bring generations of farming expertise and wisdom to the organization. Originally from Russia and Germany, Greg's family began growing raisins in California in the early 1900's. Greg followed in their footsteps until 1999, when he shifted his focus to blueberries. California Berry Genetics already sells popular blueberry varietals such as Miss Lilly, Miss Alice Mae TM and Suziblue to mainstream stores under the Farm to Table Berries brand. 2023 will be the first year of harvesting the three Duchess varieties.

California Berry Genetics is one of the top blueberry nurseries in the nation, calling on generations of expertise and wisdom. They piloted a program with renowned horticulturist, Scott NeSmith of the University of Georgia that has varieties all over the world. Their Farm to Table Berries line, which is available at most large grocery retailers, features some of the best and most consistent blueberries to hit store shelves.