The cold and rainy spring has delayed Estonia's strawberry season more than usual. There are currently very few domestic strawberries at Tallinn's markets. A larger quantity will reach the counters only next week.
According to sellers, the strawberries are not ripe enough. The cold weather prevents them from turning red. Therefore, the yield is low. No Estonian strawberries were sold at Nõmme market on Tuesday.
Nõmme market seller Indrek said the rainy spring has been difficult for strawberry growers. Farmers cannot grow enough strawberries. One farmer said the yield is so small that it's not worth bringing to Tallinn. Everything goes for personal use and to friends.
There were few Estonian strawberries at Keskturg. Helme farm sold its strawberries. Seller Aleks said people prefer domestic produce. Buyers immediately ask if the strawberries are Estonian.
Helme farm strawberries were expensive at the beginning of the season. Now the price has dropped. Nõmme seller Jaana said currently mainly Polish strawberries are being sold. There are few Estonian strawberries due to the cold weather.
Sellers believe more Estonian strawberries may arrive next week. Warmer weather will help the strawberries ripen.
Võru County farmer Vello Kramp said spring has been difficult for plants. However, the tomato yield is better than last year. Cucumbers will be available until September, and the tomato harvest will last until October.
At Keskturg, Estonian potatoes, cucumbers, and tomatoes were expensive. Seller Tatjana said there is little Estonian produce and prices are high. At Nõmme market, prices were even higher.
Seller Indrek confirmed there is little Estonian produce. Onions, tomatoes, and cauliflower are available, but prices are high. Antsu farm seller Jevgeni said buyers prefer Estonian produce. Price is not as important, quality is more significant.