Farm labor crews for berry growers

Berry work we handle

• Planting September to NovemberTransplanting strawberry plants into beds for the next season's crop.
• Field maintenance Year-roundHand weeding, runner removal, and bed and irrigation upkeep.
• Strawberry harvest and packing Most of the year, depending on regionPicking and packing into clamshells in the field. Southern California starts in winter; the Central Coast runs spring through fall.
• Caneberry training and harvest May to OctoberTraining canes and picking raspberries and blackberries through summer and fall.

The berry season at a glance

Typical California timing. Exact dates vary by region, variety, and weather.

What berry growers should know

• Food safety in the fieldBerries are packed in the field, so crews follow food-safety rules for handwashing, clean containers, and keeping the pack area clean.
• Hard on the bodyStrawberry picking is stooped work. Regular rest and recovery breaks, water, and rotating tasks help crews stay healthy through the season.
• Pay by the box, done rightBerry harvest is often paid by the box. We pay piece rate the legal way, with separate pay for rest periods and time spent not picking.

Read our compliance standards

Questions from berry growers