Harvest Harmony: The Story Behind California Berry Genetics' Blueberry Breakthrough with UGA's Scott NeSmith
California Berry Genetics, in collaboration with renowned University of Georgia (UGA) Horticultist Scott NeSmith, has pioneered a blueberry seedling program. NeSmith, having led the UGA Blueberry Breeding Program for over two decades, played a pivotal role in breeding the Duchess series blueberry varieties. Greg Willems, the owner of California Berry Genetics, asserts, “Through UGA, we have the exclusive rights in the US (except for Georgia) to sell the three Duchess varieties to commercial growers in the United States.”
The Duchess series comprises high-yield blueberries designed for mechanical harvesting, addressing labor costs and ensuring food safety during operations. The three featured varieties are Early Duchess, Blue Duchess, and Sweet Duchess, each measuring between 17-23 mm in size. Distinguished by their large size, medium to light blue color, small dry scar, and firm skin, Duchess blueberries are available for purchase between the beginning of May and late June. In the western US, these berries are offered to consumers under California Berry Genetics’ Farm to Table Berries brand. Blue Duchess is also available in Mexico.
Looking ahead, California Berry Genetics plans to introduce five new varieties to commercial growers within the next two years, collectively known as the Monica series. Developed from seedling selections from the University of Georgia, these jumbo blueberries range in size from 20 to 28 mm, featuring a thick skin and dense flesh. Similar to the Duchess varieties, they exhibit a small stem scar, a uniform appearance, and offer a crisp and sweet taste with high brix and low acidity.
All varieties, including the upcoming Monica series, are cultivated in the Central Valley of California, specifically in Fresno County. Although they thrive in this region, they are well-suited for diverse environments, allowing California Berry Genetics to extend their offerings to commercial growers across the United States. The company aims to elevate the blueberry sector by sharing its unique genetics program and innovative cultivars with the broader agriculture industry.