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Blueberry research launches exciting new California specialty crop
Authors
Manuel JimenezFrancis Carpenter
Richard H Molinar
Kathryn Wright
Kevin R Day
Authors Affiliations
M. Jimenez is Small Farms Advisor, UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), Tulare County; F. Carpenter is Research Field Assistant, UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE), Tulare County; R.H. Molinar is Small Farms Advisor, UCCE Fresno County; K. Wright is Research Field Assistant, UCCE Tulare County; K.R. Day is Tree Fruit Farm Advisor, UCCE Tulare County.Publication Information
Hilgardia 59(2):65-69. DOI:10.3733/ca.v059n02p65. April 2005.
PDF of full article, Cite this article
Abstract
Observational trials at the UC Kearney Research and Extension Center indicate that new southern highbush blueberry cultivars, which require fewer “chill hours” to produce fruit, are well adapted to the San Joaquin Valley climate. In a replicated cultivar evaluation, we quantified yields and identified several productive and flavorful varieties. These initial trials and ongoing studies on irrigation, plant spacing, mulches and pruning will improve the likelihood of establishing this promising new crop in the semiarid valley. Because blueberries are acid-loving, the soil must be extensively treated before planting, at considerable expense. Growers considering planting or expanding blueberry acreage should develop sound business plans, accounting for lower future prices and improved growing, harvesting and packing efficiencies.
References
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Gough RE. The Highbush Blueberry and Its Management.. 1991. Binghampton, NY: Food Products Pr. p. 60-90. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0167-8809(03)00125-7
Gregory J. Uses of Sulfuric Acid as a Water Amendment in Agriculture. Proceedings, International Irrigation Show. The Irrigation Association, San Antonio, TX 2001. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0160-4120(02)00157-5
North American Blueberry Council. Blueberry Statistical Record Book, 2004. 2004. www.nabcblues.org. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0269-7491(03)00246-X
Strik B, Brunn C, Antonelli A, et al. Highbush Blueberry Production. 1993. Pacific North West Pub #215. Agricultural Communications, Oregon State University, Administrative Services A422. Corvallis, OR. 73 p.
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Also in this issue:
A Classification System for California's Hardwood RangelandsLetters: April-June 2005
Collaboration fosters Kearney scientific achievements
Agricultural innovation marks 40 years at Kearney
“Farm to palate” postharvest research ensures high-quality produce
UC nematologists battle tiny underground pests
Lygus study validates treatment thresholds
The future of California raisins is drying on the vine
Orchard-system configurations increase efficiency, improve profits in peaches and nectarines
Labor costs may be reduced …
Methyl bromide alternatives … Soil solarization provides weed control for limited-resource and organic growers in warmer climates
Mulches reduce aphid-borne viruses and whiteflies in cantaloupe
Large bugs damage pistachio nuts most severely during midseason
Early harvest delays berry skin browning of ‘Princess’ table grapes
Reduced-risk fungicides help manage brown rot and other fungal diseases of stone fruit
Conventional and molecular assays aid diagnosis of crop diseases and fungicide resistance
Deep vadose zone hydrology demonstrates fate of nitrate in eastern San Joaquin Valley
Weighing lysimeters aid study of water relations in tree and vine crops
Ozone reduces crop yields and alters competition with weeds such as yellow nutsedge