Alternative fruits gain ground in Texas agriculture

TEXAS CROP AND WEATHER REPORT

As Texas fruit growers battle unpredictable chill hours and late spring freezes, a small, but growing, group is turning to lesser-known or “alternative” fruit crops in search of more resilient and profitable options.

Fruits such as figs, blackberries and raspberries continue to draw interest from niche growers. In East Texas, producers are starting to explore the viability of jujube, golden kiwi, mayhaws, pawpaw and elderberries, said Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists.