Lower Strawberry Supply and Rising Prices in Mazovia, Season Nears End

Polish strawberry supply is lower than last year due to spring frosts and cool nights, with prices rising as the season enters its final phase. Availability on local markets is decreasing, especially in the Mazovia region.

On the Warecki market in Mazovia, strawberry prices in mid-June 2026 reached €4.2–4.7/kg (18–20 PLN per 4.25 kg łubianka, or about 9–10 PLN/kg), with dominant varieties including Marmolada and Sybilla. Traders report a noticeable decline in supply compared to 2025, attributed to spring frosts that damaged flowers and fruit set, as well as ongoing cool nights that delay ripening and reduce predictability of harvests.

Plantations across central Poland are experiencing shorter harvest periods. Many growers report that their fields are already nearing the end of the picking season. The combination of earlier frost damage and recent weather—rainfall with low night temperatures—has resulted in fewer strawberries available on wholesale and retail markets. This situation is reflected in quicker market turnover and a focus on sorting fruit for either fresh consumption or processing.

During harvest, growers are sorting strawberries directly in the field. The best quality fruit is sold as fresh dessert strawberries, mostly at local markets, while the lower grades are sent to processing plants. The reduced supply means every batch is significant, and rapid reaction to changing weather and fruit quality is necessary this year.

Imports of strawberries from Serbia and Moldova are still reaching Polish wholesale markets even at peak domestic season. There are ongoing government actions and stricter controls to combat mislabeling of imported strawberries as Polish, as this affects both prices and the competitiveness of local growers.

Quality criteria such as firmness, taste, and uniformity are increasingly important for buyers and retailers. The 2026 season has highlighted the need for strong root systems and adaptive production practices, as climate variability continues to impact yields and market availability.

Compiled from Polish trade press (2026-06-17)