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EVER-BEARING STRAWBERRIES FOR SUMMER FRUIT PRODUCTION

Extension Education

William Lantz
Extension Educator
University of Maryland Extension
Mt. Lake Park

Abstract

Fresh market fruit and vegetable producers in the Mountains of Western Maryland are challenged with producing fruit. Late spring frosts, early fall frosts, cool summers and long cold winters make raising most fruits nearly impossible. In 2005, Dr. Harry Swartz introduced producers in Garrett County to a method used in Europe to produce ever-bearing strawberries. Bare root ever-bearing strawberries are started as plug plants in a greenhouse and then planted into the field in May. These plants will produce fruit about 30 days after planting and will produce 1 to 1.5 pounds of fruit during the summer. Because of severe winter climate, these plants are removed before winter. This method takes advantage of the cool summer weather but eliminates overwintering and spring frost protection. Retail prices at the farmers market for local strawberries during the summer have ranged from $3.00 to $3.50 per pint. This high retail price makes this method of producing strawberries attractive to fresh market producers. In 2006, the University of Maryland Extension office received two Northeast SARE grants to adapt this method of producing strawberries to the mountains of Western Maryland. From 2006 to 2009 extension conducted eight on farm demonstration and applied research projects, including high tunnel production, nutrient requirements, plastic mulch color, plant types, and a variety trial. During the period, nine educational programs were also held including a multi day strawberry short course, field days and winter educational programs with 183 producers in attendance. In 2009, 21 producers grew 20,000 ever-bearing strawberry plants.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

A poster file has not been provided

Authors: W.D. Lantz, S.L. Frick, H.J. Swartz,
  1. Lantz, W. Extension Educator, Maryland Cooperative Extension, Maryland, 21550
  2. Frick, S. Extension Program Assistant, Maryland Cooperative Extension, Maryland, 21550
  3. Swartz, H. Associate Professor, University of Maryland, Maryland, 20742
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