Overview
- The season has begun in parts of Saxony in late May with early varieties and protected plantings already being harvested and some farms open for self-picking.
- The Sächsischer Obstbauverband says it expects roughly 1,400 tonnes from about 175 hectares in its area while official area estimates vary between reports.
- Late‑April frost caused only light damage according to growers, who are using fleece, foil coverings and early‑ripening varieties to protect crops and bring harvests forward.
- Producers report an acute dependence on seasonal workers with foreign labor a large share of the workforce and rising wage costs that make up roughly half of operating expenses.
- Retail and on‑farm prices differ sharply—examples range from about €4.50 per kilo for self‑picking to €10 per kilo at some stands—against a backdrop of fewer strawberry farms and lower production than a decade ago.