10 Local Berries to Discover

In Quebec, berries come in three main categories: must-haves, emerging varieties and those that are off the beaten path. Each reflects terroir, the conditions of cultivation and the uses in the kitchen. Here are 10 to discover.

The classics

Strawberries and raspberries are among the berries that dominate the market. Easy to grow, they thrive in fertile soils and their production is widely spread across the country, although some regions have a higher concentration of producers.

Blueberries and cranberries are added to the list and are grown in specific regions due to their special soil requirements. Accessible, both in grocery stores and pick-your-own farms, these berries are eaten fresh in season. They are also available in frozen or processed versions (jams, juices, etc.).

To remember:

Production well established in Quebec
Available fresh, frozen and processed
Widespread pick-your-own options

Strawberries

The Capitale-Nationale, and more specifically Île d'Orléans, is a major production site. The influence of the river creates a microclimate that protects the crops from frost and allows the strawberries to ripen more slowly, which concentrates the sugars and intensifies the aromas. In addition, there are suitable soils, which contribute to the quality of the fruit.

Raspberries

The Laurentians have a high proportion of producers. This delicate fruit grows best in light, well-drained soils and full sun, conditions that are very present in the region. The proximity of Montreal also encourages pick-your-own options.

Did you know?

The production methods of strawberries and raspberries have evolved in recent years. The introduction of everbearing varieties makes it possible to spread the harvests until autumn. The use of tunnels and weather protection helps to bring forward and extend the season, while limiting disease. These practices make it possible to offer quality local fruit over a longer period of time.

Blueberries

Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean is the heart of wild blueberries in Quebec, and one of the world's main production hubs. The vast majority of the province's farms are located there. This concentration is explained by the presence of vast sandy plains with very acidic and poor soils. These conditions are not conducive to most crops, but are ideal for blueberries.

Did you know?

About 80% of the harvest comes from managed blueberry fields, with the rest picked in public forests.

Cranberries

Centre-du-Québec is home to most of the production, where organic and peat soils, which are acidic and spongy, are well adapted to this crop. Its flat topography facilitates the construction of basins and the management of water, which is used to flood fields during harvest and form a protective layer in winter.

Did you know?

Quebec is the world's second largest producer of cranberries after Wisconsin.

Emerging berries

Some berries are gaining popularity and presence in the market. Hardy and well adapted to the Quebec climate, they stand out for their nutritional profile and originality, even if they are still often eaten processed.

To remember:

Growing crops
Harvests spread out from June to September
Presence mainly with specialist producers

Chokeberry

Still lesser-known, chokeberry is gaining ground in Quebec with producers focusing on superfoods. Easy to grow and harvest, it produces a very astringent fruit, which is rarely eaten fresh. It is mainly found in juice, powder or processed products, where it reveals all its benefits.

Haskap

Arriving at the turn of the 2000s, the haskap has established itself as a small fruit of the future. Harvested in June, it opens the season with a unique flavour, a combination of blueberries, raspberries and blackcurrants. Fragile, it is mainly processed, but remains a rising star for its nutritional qualities.

Sea buckthorn

The cultivation of this northern fruit with a tangy taste developed in Quebec in the 2000s. Rich in vitamin C and omega fatty acids, it is mainly processed into juices, oils and specialized products.

Did you know?

Harvesting sea buckthorn is a real logistical challenge. Between the sharp thorns of the shrub and the fragility of the berries, which burst easily, growers must be extra careful. They also use a surprising method: branch freezing.

Lesser-known berries

Other small fruits remain more discreet. Grown on a smaller scale or present in a natural environment, they often occupy niche markets and are mainly used in processing.

To remember:

Small or marginal production
Available mainly in select areas
Strong potential for transformation

Saskatoon berries

A small fruit native to Quebec, Saskatoon berries are mostly picked in the wild or grown on a small scale. Its production remains marginal and linked to local initiatives. Sweet and lightly scented, it is reminiscent of blueberries with a touch of almond and lends itself well to jams and desserts.

Elderberry

Hardy and adapted to the Quebec climate, elderberry is gaining in popularity, but remains a niche crop in the province. Its flowers and berries are mainly processed into syrups, drinks and health products. Its production remains limited and it is often associated with diversified farms.

Blackcurrant

This small fruit, from a traditional niche crop, has been present in Quebec for a long time. Its powerful taste, both acidic and woody, makes it especially suitable for fine processing, particularly in liqueurs and jams. It is now experiencing a revival of interest thanks to local products and gastronomy.

From the fresh produce aisle to frozen or processed options, local berries come in all forms. It’s a great opportunity to explore, taste and showcase local know-how.

Please note that the availability of the fruits mentioned varies from store to store. Don't hesitate to ask for more information in the fruit and vegetable section.