California Fruit and Vegetable

Category: Strawberries

  • New UC Study Estimates Costs for Growing Coastal Organic Strawberries

    A new study that can help growers and other readers estimate costs and potential returns for Central Coast organic strawberries was recently released by UC Agriculture and Natural Resources, UC Cooperative Extension and the UC Davis Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics.

    Organic strawberries represent approximately 13% of all strawberries produced along the Central Coast.

    “This study provides growers with a baseline to estimate their own costs, which can help when applying for production loans, projecting labor costs, securing market arrangements, or understanding costs associated with water and nutrient management and regulatory programs,” said Brittney Goodrich, UC Cooperative Extension specialist and study co-author.

    The cost study models a management scenario for a 30-acre farm, 27 acres of which are planted to organic strawberries.  The remaining acres are for the irrigation system, roads, and buildings.  The study describes the cultural practices used in organic strawberry production and harvest, including land preparation, soil fertility and pest management, irrigation and labor needs.

    The 20-page study shows costs for each operation, material inputs and costs, and cash and non-cash overhead costs in a variety of formats for one production and harvest cycle.  A ranging analysis is also included and shows potential profits or losses over a range of prices and yields.

    The new study, “2024 Sample Costs to Produce and Harvest Organic Strawberries,” can be downloaded from the UC Davis Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics website at https://coststudies.ucdavis.edu.

    For a detailed explanation of the assumptions and calculations used to estimate the costs and potential returns for each crop, readers can refer to the narrative portion of each study.

    Sample cost of production studies for many other commodities grown in California are also available at https://coststudies.ucdavis.edu.

    For more information about the organic strawberry cost study, contact Mark Bolda, University of California Cooperative Extension farm advisor, at mpbolda@ucanr.edu or Jeremy Murdock in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at jmmurdock@ucdavis.edu.

    UC Agriculture and Natural Resources brings UC information and practices to all 58 California counties. Through research and Cooperative Extension in agriculture, natural resources, economic growth, nutrition and youth development, our mission is to improve the lives of all Californians. Learn more at ucanr.edu and support our work at donate.ucanr.edu.

  • UC Davis Ends Strawberry Licensing Agreements with Eurosemillas

    The University of California, Davis, a leader in the development of world-class strawberry varieties for the California and global markets, is terminating all strawberry licensing agreements with Eurosemillas S.A., which has been a master licensee for older UC Davis strawberry varieties in countries outside of the United States.

    The decision to terminate the UC Davis Public Strawberry Breeding Program licensing agreements with Eurosemillas does not come lightly. The University of California provided due notice to Eurosemillas of the university’s position that Eurosemillas had defaulted on its agreements, and the university’s concerns were not addressed.

    The university is taking steps to provide stability for nurseries and fruit growers during this transition period, and ensure continued access to older UC Davis strawberry varieties. Newer UC Davis strawberry varieties continue to be available throughout the world per licensing agreements with other partners, Fresa Fortaleza and Global Plant Genetics.

    “The UC Davis Public Strawberry Breeding Program has been a huge success for consumers, growers, California’s agricultural economy and the global strawberry market,” said Helene Dillard, dean of the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. “The step the university is taking today is necessary to support our growers and our program, and to ensure the scientific breakthroughs at UC Davis and resources provided by the state of California are cared for, managed and marketed properly.”

    UC Davis holds active patents on 20 strawberry varieties, all of which have been licensed to nurseries to sell to strawberry growers.

    The university directly licenses strawberry varieties to California nurseries, offering state strawberry growers exclusive access to new varieties for two years and reduced royalty rates to give them a competitive advantage. The university also directly licenses varieties elsewhere in the United States and Canada.

    In markets outside North America, the university contracts with master licensees to work with nurseries, farmers and growers. International markets where UC Davis strawberry varieties are grown include the European Union, the United Kingdom and Switzerland; Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay; China; Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco and Turkey; South Africa; Canada; New Zealand and Australia.

    UC has been and will continue to be vigilant about supporting the UC Davis Public Strawberry Breeding Program and honoring its obligations to farmers and growers to ensure access to high-quality, affordable varieties in California and elsewhere. As a public research institution, UC diligently protects and promotes its intellectual property to maximize public value, support thriving agricultural economies and ensure reinvestment in university research and education.

    About the UC Davis Public Strawberry Breeding Program

    Strawberry varieties developed at UC Davis produce about 60% of all strawberries consumed worldwide. Varieties developed at UC Davis have made California a leading producer, with the state growing more than 87% of North American strawberries. The UC Davis Public Strawberry Breeding Program is funded primarily by revenue from licensing strawberry varieties. Licensing funds also support patent expenses, campus inventors, the UC Office of the President and UC Davis. Annually, the University of California generally receives between $8 million and $9 million in licensing revenue from the strawberry breeding program.

    UC Davis develops strawberry varieties for greater yield, disease resistance, flavor, adaptation to different growing conditions and other positive characteristics. UC Davis breeders work collaboratively with industry leaders to produce fruit that meets the market demand and address the needs of growers. The program also trains students and postdoctoral researchers to be leaders in this vital industry. — By Bill Kisliuk, UC Davis

  • Cal Poly Strawberry Center 8th Annual Field Day

    Join more than 400 strawberry growers, researchers and industry representatives for this year’s Strawberry Center Field Day on Thursday, August 8th from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (check-in beginning at 7:30 a.m.).  Participants will rotate through stations, hearing from students and staff about the latest research taking place at the Strawberry Center at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Topics include the newest automation technology, predatory mites, soil-borne pathogens of strawberry and much more. “We look forward to sharing the center’s latest research and happenings,” shares Julie Tillman from the Strawberry Center.  Registration opens in April/May and includes lunch. For attendee and sponsorship information (now available), click HERE.

  • UC Strawberry Production Research Meeting, Feb. 14

    Join UC Farm Advisor Mark Bolda and other University and field experts in this virtual meeting to learn about the latest research and advances in strawberry production. Anyone directly involved with the production of strawberries is invited to attend. Live Spanish translation will be available. We will discuss issues pertaining to production of strawberry and provide updates on current research addressing those issues. Continuing Education Credits from CA DPR are pending approval. Register to attend HERE.

    Contacts for More Information
    Logistics: UC ANR Program Support, 530-750-1361 (messages only)

    Program: Mark Bolda, UCCE Farm Advisor

  • North American Strawberry Growers Association 2024 Conference

    Join the 2024 NASGA Annual Meeting and Conference on January 29-31, 2024, in Hershey, PA in conjunction with the Mid Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention.

    The convention will begin with a full day workshop on strawberry production.  The workshop will include presentations and discussion on soil health, site selection, varieties, fertility and nutrient management. Matted row production will be discussed but there will also be discussion on substrate production as well as other alternative production methods.  Time will also be spent discussing insect, disease and weed management.

    Day 2 and 3 will be filled with informative presentations as well as a number of panel discussions. There will also be the popular grower and nursery profiles. Presentation Topics include: Cyclamen mite management, new diseases, Anthracnose updates, variations between high tunnel and greenhouse production, weed management, runner management, plastic options, new strawberry varieties and more.

    Book accommodations early

    Be sure to book your accommodations early to ensure a room at Hershey Lodge. A special discounted Mid Atlantic Convention room rate of $169.00 plus 11% taxes is available to attendees.

    If you wish to make your reservation by phone, call the Hershey Lodge Reservation office at  855-729-3108, and ask for the room block for the Mid Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Conference,  January 28 – February 02, 2024.

    Learn more and register

    Visit the North American Strawberry Grower’s Association website for more information about this annual meeting that brings together strawberry researchers, growers and agribusiness from around the world and will feature two and a half days of meetings and a tour of the Hershey, PA growing area. Registration information will be listed on the NASGA website as available.

  • Crown Rot and Red Stele Root Rot in Strawberries: Silent Soilborne Threats

    – SPONSORED CONTENT –

    Strawberries can fall victim to various fungal and bacterial diseases, with crown rot and red stele root rot being 2 of the most common. As soilborne pathogens, these diseases can destroy your strawberries from the ground up and are often difficult to identify until it’s too late to properly manage the disease.

    These diseases thrive in various environmental conditions, meaning strawberries are susceptible throughout different phases of the growing season. However, with the correct preventive measures you can protect your crop health and quality.

    Crown Rot Signs and Symptoms in Strawberry Crops

    According to University of California IPM, initially, symptoms usually include plant stunting and small leaves. As the season progresses, plants may collapse slowly or rapidly. Cutting open infected plants, reveals a brown discoloration that can be seen in or throughout the crown tissue. Infection of the roots causes a brown to black root rot.

    Red Stele Root Rot Signs and Symptoms in Strawberry Crops

    According to University of California IPM, symptoms of red stele root rot first appear on plants that are located in low and poorly drained parts of fields. Strawberry plants infected with red stele root rot often become stunted as affected leaves die and are replaced by younger, smaller leaves. Young roots often become rotted with red coloration at the core. Infection is mostly limited to winter and early spring when the soil is oversaturated during cool weather.

    Strawberry Disease Control Recommendations

    Recognizing crown rot and red stele root rot in strawberries is crucial, yet often, visible symptoms may indicate that disease has already progressed significantly. That’s why it’s important to implement proper preventive measures to stay 1 step ahead of disease.

    Avoid soilborne diseases like crown rot and red stele root rot in your strawberry crops with these recommendations:

    • Select Proper Planting Site: Your first line of defense from disease is selecting the correct planting location. Choose a well-drained field without a history of disease.
    • Use Raised Beds: Plant seedlings in raised beds, avoiding low wet spots as excess moisture creates an ideal environment for fungal disease.
    • Choose Disease-resistant Varieties: Consider planting strawberry varieties known for resistance to crown rot and red stele root rot.
    • Ensure Proper Irrigation: Avoid overwatering and the use of runoff for irrigation due to potential inoculum spread
    • Implement Fungicide Spray Program: Consider applying a systemic fungicide such as Orondis® Gold for ongoing protection against key Oomycete diseases like crown rot and red stele root rot.

    Orondis Gold fungicide combines 2 powerful active ingredients to deliver preventive, residual and systemic activity that helps you control soilborne strawberry diseases during the season. A combination of mefenoxam and oxathiapiprolin, Orondis Gold provides built-in resistance management. In addition to offering crown rot and red stele root rot disease prevention, Orondis Gold helps secure early strawberry crop establishment and promotes root health.

    For more insight into strawberry disease management, contact your Syngenta representative.

    Sign up for the Know More, Grow More Digest to receive twice-monthly agronomic email updates pertinent to your area.

    All photos are either the property of Syngenta or are used with permission.

    Syngenta hereby disclaims any liability for third party websites referenced herein.

  • California Strawberry Commission Fills Two Key Positions

    The California Strawberry Commission (CSC) is announcing two key hires to advance the industry through research and communications.

    Dr. William “Bill” Turechek joins the CSC as the new Vice President of Research. Bill joins the CSC after serving since 2006 as a Research Plant Pathologist at the USDA-ARS Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, Florida, where he worked on epidemiology and management of strawberry and vegetable diseases.

    Dr. Turechek has over 100 peer-reviewed research articles and book chapters, has raised tens of millions of dollars in extramural funding, and has served as senior editor for the journals Plant Disease and Phytopathology. His areas of expertise include plant disease epidemiology, disease management, and statistics, with an emphasis on diseases that occur in strawberry and annual vegetable production.

    “We are excited to have Dr. Turechek join the California Strawberry Commission and utilize his expertise to aid the 400+ family-owned strawberry farming operations in California,” said Rick Tomlinson, California Strawberry Commission President.

    “I am honored to join the California Strawberry Commission and I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know the many growers, shippers, and processors in the California strawberry industry. As the Vice President of Research, one of my primary goals is to work closely with the industry to identify key research needs, and then make it happen. In leading the Commission’s research efforts, I hope to empower California strawberry growers with the latest research and data to help them make the informed decisions that will advance strawberry farming in California” said Dr. William Turechek, California Strawberry Commission Vice President of Research.

    The California Strawberry Commission also recently named Jeff Cardinale as the new Director of Communications.

    Among his duties, Cardinale will lead positive marketing message campaigns highlighting the importance of the California strawberries and the industry itself to the local communities where strawberries are grown as well as to local, state, and national stakeholders. Cardinale will also handle media relations and crisis communications. Cardinale led the commission’s response to the January and March flooding events.

    Jeff Cardinale Joins the CSC as Director of Communications

    “On behalf of the 400+ California strawberry growers, shippers, and processors, I am excited to join the California Strawberry Commission. There are incredible stories to tell about the California strawberry industry, from the remarkable opportunities for field workers becoming farm owners, to the fact that 97 cents of every California strawberry dollar goes right back into the community. These are just a few of the many great things happening in the California strawberry industry and I look forward to showcasing those stories,” said Jeff Cardinale, California Strawberry Commission Director of Communications.

    “We are delighted to have Jeff on board. He brings nearly 10 years of agriculture communications experience as well as extensive work in proactive and crisis communications. The commission is confident Jeff will serve the industry well,” said Rick Tomlinson, California Strawberry Commission President.

    Dr. Bill Turechek joins the CSC as Vice President, Research

    Prior to his work in agricultural communications, Cardinale served as the Public Information Officer for the Fresno Police Department. Cardinale also has more than 15 years experience in television news management where he won six Emmy Awards for Best Newscast.

    As part of the marketing and media relations campaigns, Cardinale plans to introduce new ways of reaching the media, as well as the local strawberry farming communities to stay engaged with the industry.

     

  • Two Upcoming UC Davis Strawberry Breeding Field Days

    The UC Davis Strawberry Breeding Program is having two field days coming up.  The first, on May 24, will be held in Lompoc and the second will be held on June 14 at Meridien Road in Prunedale.  Both field days will feature the program’s day-neutral varieties.

    More details about each meeting are on the pdf fliers attached below.

    Attached Files

    UCD Day Neutral Field Day Agenda Lompoc English 
    UCD Day Neutral Field Day Agenda Prunedale English 

  • Strawberry Consumption Linked with Heart Health, Cardiometabolic Benefits

    As attention focuses on heart disease this February for American Heart Month, the latest research on strawberries, including their potential heart health benefits, was presented at the 9th biennial Berry Health Benefits Symposium (BHBS) in Tampa, FL. This research adds to the growing body of scientific evidence supporting the role of strawberry consumption in promoting heart health.

    According to Britt Burton-Freeman, Ph.D., professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology and BHBS Heart and Healthy Aging Session Chair, “The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study showed that a diet low in fruit is among the top three risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. To address the “fruit gap” we need to increase the amount of total fruit consumed as well as the diversity of fruit in the diet. Accumulating evidence in cardiometabolic health suggests that as little as one cup of strawberries per day may show beneficial effects.”

    Studies demonstrate that the cardiometabolic benefits of strawberry consumption are multi-faceted and may include decreased total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, increased vascular relaxation and tone, decreased inflammation and oxidative stress, decreased insulin resistance, and decreased blood sugar. Clinical trials have linked strawberries to improvements in various markers for cardiovascular disease, including lipid levels.

    In one randomized controlled crossover trial of 33 obese adults, daily consumption of strawberries at a dose of two-and-a-half cups per day significantly improved insulin resistance and moderately improved high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particle size in comparison to the control group.

    “Our study supports the hypothesis that strawberry consumption can improve cardiometabolic risks,” said lead investigator Arpita Basu, Ph.D., R.D.N., associate professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, “Furthermore, we believe this evidence supports the role of strawberries in a ‘food as medicine’ approach for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults.”1

    Another study with 34 adult men and women with moderate hypercholesterolemia conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology found that vascular function, as indicated by flow-mediated dilation, improved one hour after strawberry intake.2

    As one of the most popular and accessible fruits in the U.S., strawberries are a flavor-favorite with consumers. A serving of 8 strawberries (one cup) fulfills the daily recommended value of vitamin C and delivers a host of other nutrients and beneficial bioactive compounds. Available year-round, strawberries offer consumers a versatile and convenient fruit option beloved by kids and adults.

    About California Strawberry Commission

    The California Strawberry Commission is more than 300 strawberry farmers, shippers, and processors, all working together to advance strawberry farming for the future of our land and people. Commission programs create opportunities for success through groundbreaking programs focused on workforce training, strawberry production research, and nutrition research. Through science-based information and education, it delivers the good news about sustainable farming practices that benefit the health of people, farms, and communities.

  • North American Strawberry Symposium & Growers Association Conference

    Strawberry growers, researchers, and other industry members from around the globe are invited to attend the 10th North American Strawberry Symposium (NASS), a meeting of  to be held in conjunction with the annual North American Strawberry Growers Association (NASGA) conference, March 7-10, 2023 at the Embassy Suites in San Luis Obispo, California, USA. California, where nearly 90% of U.S. strawberries are grown, features a unique coastal environment with its western ocean exposure, moderate temperatures, warm sunny days, and cool foggy nights –perfect for growing strawberries year-round.

    The Symposium will include two and a half days of workshops, reception, research presentations, marketing presentations, poster sessions and an award luncheon, and will be followed by a post- conference tour on March 10, which will encompass strawberry production in the region as well as the research, training and testing facilities at the CalPoly Strawberry Center. The Program Committee is committed to making this a world-class research symposium for growers and scientists, and we eagerly look forward to seeing you in San Luis Obispo.

    Subject areas for oral and poster presentations include: Global and North American Overviews, Breeding, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Disease & Pest Management, Propagation & Nursery Management, Cultural Practices, Indoor Production, Precision Agriculture, Robotics, Automation, Plant Nutrition and Water Management, Plant Physiology, Economics of Production Practices, Post-Harvest Quality Management, and Food Safety.

    Workshop topics include: Disease Management, Nursery Developments, Entomology, Strawberry Breeding Tools and Tips, Production Management/Plant Physiology, Getting Started with Automation/Precision Agriculture, Indoor Production, Methyl Bromide Alternatives, Novel Weed Management Approaches. View the full program HERE.

    Look for a mail-in registration form and more program details (abstract deadlines, keynote speakers, etc.) and opportunities for industry, organization and agency sponsorship on the NASGA website: http://www.nasga.org/. Please spread the word to fellow researchers and strawberry growers.