KindHarvest summary: Major League Blueberries was established on a 300-acre Georgia property in 2015 and developed into a major organic supplier. Its experience shows the capital, time, market relationships and risk management needed to build a perennial horticulture business.
From new planting to organic production
The partners developed about 160 acres with roughly 400,000 blueberry plants. The farm completed its three-year organic transition in 2020 and sold its first fully organic crop in 2021, when it produced about one million pounds. Thirteen varieties and a later-producing 21-acre planting were intended to extend the harvest window.
Organic premiums come with production constraints
Organic certification restricted the fertilisers and crop-protection products available to the business. The farm accepted lower production potential in exchange for a stronger market price and sold through a single berry supplier serving major retailers. That arrangement simplified marketing but also concentrated customer risk.
Weather remains decisive
A severe March 2022 freeze damaged much of the expected crop even though the farm used frost protection. Crop insurance and documented management practices became important parts of recovery. The team then faced weed control, hedging damaged plants, drainage work, replanting and changes to fertiliser application.
The business lesson
Perennial fruit enterprises take years to reach full production. Variety choice, season extension, labour, insurance, buyer relationships and recovery plans can matter as much as the original planting decision.
Source and credit
This KindHarvest Team farm-business brief is based on reporting by John McCurry for Farm Progress, published 10 May 2022. The article has moved from its original address. Read the full Farm Progress article.