ISHS Acta Horticulturae 61: Symposium on Vaccinium Culture in Europe
LONG-TERM EXPERIENCE IN THE CULTIVATION AND SELLING OF HIGHBUSH BLUEBERRIES |
| Author: | D. W. Heermann |
| Abstract:
The highbush blueberry has been planted on plantations since 1934. After 1950, the cultivation area increased to approximately 250 ha. An increased producer's price encouraged this development. Cultivation in garden plots is often carried out wrongly, due to bad information. The climate and soil limit commercial cultivation. Micro-climates promote the yield of single bushes which can amount to over 25 kg per bush. The soil and its pH-value are however of primary interest. The application of too much nitrogen during fertilization is the cause of most failures. Manual picking will in the future be replaced by totally mechanized harvesters. Adapted varieties, the classification of the plants, optimal packaging and an organized distribution are indispensable. Producers' cooperatives and few middlemen appear to be optimal. The consumer price must not be too high, in order that the blueberry can become known and liked. The cultivation development in Europe is positive. Harvesters and self-picking promote this development. | |
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