The State That Grows The Most Cranberries

The state that grows the most cranberries in the United States is Wisconsin. Known for its expansive cranberry marshes, Wisconsin has led the nation in cranberry production for several decades. The state's unique climate and sandy, acidic soil provide ideal conditions for cranberry cultivation. Cranberries are a significant part of Wisconsin's agricultural sector, contributing substantially to its economy. The cranberry harvest season typically begins in late September and extends through October, during which time the vibrant red berries are harvested from the flooded marshes, creating picturesque scenes that attract tourists and photographers alike. Wisconsin's cranberry industry is bolstered by a combination of family-run farms and larger agricultural enterprises, many of which have been operating for generations. These growers employ various sustainable farming practices to ensure the health of the bogs and surrounding ecosystems. In addition to fresh cranberries, the state also produces a wide range of cranberry-based products, including juices, sauces, and dried cranberries, which are distributed both domestically and internationally. The state's commitment to research and innovation in cranberry agriculture continues to support its dominance in this sector, ensuring that Wisconsin remains synonymous with cranberry production.
Advertisement

Wisconsin: the cranberry state

So, how many cranberries are we discussing here? While cranberries are no longer shipped or stored in wooden barrels, farmers still use the traditional 100-pound barrel as their standard measurement for cranberry harvests. In 2024, Wisconsin produced 4.9 million barrels of cranberries, which translates to 490 million pounds. And it gets even more impressive! Not only does Wisconsin lead the U.S. in cranberry production, but it also accounts for a significant portion of the world's cranberry supply!

When it comes to cranberry farming, there’s virtually no competition. Wisconsin produces twice as many cranberries as the second-ranking state, Massachusetts, which harvested 2.2 million barrels in 2024. What makes Wisconsin an ideal location for cranberry cultivation? Local farmers benefit from the state's abundant water resources and low pH soil—two essential factors for growing cranberries. Interestingly, only 5% of the cranberry harvest is sold as fresh fruit; the remainder is processed into frozen cranberries, dried cranberries, juices, and, of course, that beloved jellied canned cranberry sauce.

Recommended

Next up

Advertisement