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EVALUATION OF ARONIA BERRY YEILDS, CULTIVAR ADAPTABILITY AND OPTIMUM NITROGEN REQUIREMENT FOR ORGANIC PRODUCTION IN MARYLAND.

Applied Research

Sudeep Mathew
Agent, Agriculture & Natural Resources
University of Maryland Extension
Cambridge

Abstract

\r\n The Black Chokeberry [Photinia melanocarpa (Michx.) Robertson and Phipps], also known as “Aronia”, is a northeastern U.S native with a long history of fruit production in Eastern Europe.  As an alternative crop, this fruit is part of a growing industry in the mid-western States with great marketing potential.Recent studies have shown that Aronia has a very high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) compared to other fruit, including blueberries and the tropical palm fruit Açai. Increased interest by consumers to the health-promoting effects of fruits and vegetables containing high concentrations of flavonoids, considered potent antioxidants, makes Aronia a highly marketable fruit crop.  Research conducted at University of Maryland, Wye Research and Education Center has been evaluating Aronia’s cultural management, including cultivar adaptability, disease and pest resistance, and fertility requirements to produce optimum yield.  Two popular varieties, ‘Viking’ and ‘Nero’ were selected because of their availability in the U.S. nursery trade.   Our research has been showing that this fruit seems relatively easy to grow, requiring little fertilizer and pesticide input, which maximizes profit and reduces time for return on investment.  A University of Maryland Extension program is presently underway to promote the interest of this fruit as an alternative crop for farms. 

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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.

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Authors: *S. A. Mathew, A. G. Ristvey
  1. Mathew, *. Agent, University of Maryland Extension, Maryland, 21613
  2. Ristvey, A. Extension Specialist, University of Maryland Extension, Maryland, 21658