Cranberries: strong growing conditions
August 12, 2026 at 4:10 PM ,
Der AUDITOR
Strong growing conditions support near-average 2026 crop
Growing conditions across North America’s key cranberry-producing regions have generally been favourable this season. After the weather-related challenges of 2025, growers have benefited from conditions that supported flowering, pollination, and fruit set. With the harvest still weeks away, the 2026 cranberry crop is tracking closer to historical averages. However, production is expected to fall below the exceptionally large crops of the past two years and global cranberry output could also be slightly lower than last year.
Quebec returns to average production
Quebec is expected to return to more typical production levels following two exceptionally strong crops. Favourable flowering conditions, strong fruit set, and a combination of warm days and cool nights have supported crop development. Hybrid varieties continue to perform particularly well, while traditional varieties are tracking near average yields. August weather will remain critical for fruit sizing and final production volumes.
Improved outlook for New Brunswick
After drought conditions affected the 2025 crop, New Brunswick growers are seeing a much more favourable season. Strong bloom development and healthy crop growth are supporting expectations for improved yields and fruit quality.
Wisconsin shows strong recovery
Wisconsin, the largest cranberry-producing state in the US, has experienced a significant improvement from last year. Minimal winter injury and favourable growing conditions have supported healthy crop development, with both hybrid and native varieties performing well.
Massachusetts set for rebound
Massachusetts growers have benefited from excellent flowering, pollination, and fruit set. Warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and timely rainfall have created ideal growing conditions. If favourable weather continues through the harvest, production is expected to be near or slightly above average, marking a strong recovery from one of the state’s smallest cranberry crops in a decade during 2025.
2026 cranberry market outlook
Across North America, favourable growing conditions are supporting expectations for a stable cranberry crop in 2026. While production is unlikely to match the record volumes of recent years, yields are expected to return closer to historical averages, providing a positive outlook for the cranberry market. In Europe, cut US cranberries S/M are currently trading at EUR 3.90/kg (USD 4.49/kg) FCA NL.
View the original article issued by Chelmer Foods here
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