The Small Fruit Update
The SFU is a newsletter for the PNW berry industry featuring regional crop reports, news, pest management, research and industry events.
What is The Small Fruit Update?
This newsletter is published weekly during the growing season and bi-monthly from October to February. It includes crop reports, industry updates, and pest management information for berry cultivation throughout the Pacific Northwest.
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Small Fruit Update Week 22, 2025
We have been collecting scorch samples through the Oregon Virus testing program (similar initiatives exist in BC and WA). While some fields display the usual signs, others do not (such as yellowing or weak plants).

Small Fruit Update Week 21, 2025
I’m drawing your attention to some final decisions being made before the full season starts. The Red Raspberry breeding program geneticist position is currently in the interview process.

Small Fruit Update Week 20, 2025
Patchy rain finally made its way through Oregon and while I don’t like the thought of what it’s doing for the early, early strawberries that will be coming off this weekend it’s been so, so dry and much needed.

Small Fruit Update Week 19, 2025
If you are an Oregon strawberry grower, you would have received notice recently of a proposed rule change to remove the organic exemption from the Oregon Strawberry Commission assessment collection.

Small Fruit Update Week 18, 2025
It is important to observe plants for recurring virus symptoms, especially in fields that have seen a steady decline in production over the past few years, as signs of virus symptoms are starting to emerge. Additionally, we want to remind everyone that BC, WA, and OR have virus surveillance and testing programs available, all sponsored by their respective blueberry councils and commissions.

Small Fruit Update Week 17, 2025
The lack of temperature spikes and abundance of sunshine hours in a day creates ideal conditions for bees to pollinate effectively. However, there is some concern about excessive bloom overlap, not allowing the bees to keep up. I think it’s fine but time will tell.

Small Fruit Update Week 16, 2025
I thought it would be important to notify folks on the changes happening at the local USDA-ARS. At least four berry related scientists and numerous administrative and maintenance support staff are no longer with the organization

Small Fruit Update Week 15, 2025
Let’s talk hive strength. After hearing some overwintering concerns in hives this year with many colonies appearing weaker than normal, it’s important to keep a closer eye on bee activity.

Small Fruit Update Week 14, 2025
Meetings and field work collide. We’ve got bees going into Eastern Washington and Southern Oregon fields. Word on the street is that honeybees didn’t overwinter so well this year.
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