2017 ASHS Annual Conference

Mid-south strawberry production in states like Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas is low (about 250 – 300 acres each) compared to California, Florida, and North Carolina. Most strawberry production occurs on family-run operations with 5 acres or less, and production occurs with a diversity of other vegetable and small fruit crops. While a few growers continue raise strawberries using perennial matted-row systems, annual plasticulture production has increased significantly. Until recently, using black plastic was limited due to concerns of excessive heat and lower yields. A few growers produce using white on black plastic to reduce heat exposure. While most production occurs in open fields, high and low tunnel production is on the rise. Tunnel production allows for early fall and/or spring production, higher yields, and quality, and protect crops from adverse weather conditions including high winds, hail, and heavy rainfall. In the mid-south, strawberry planting occurs from mid-September through November using bare root plants; however, planting with strawberry plugs is slowly on the rise. While day-neutral varieties like ‘Albion’ are common, most small, retail producers prefer June-bearing types including the consumer-popular ‘Chandler’ and ‘Camarosa’, though some grow ‘Strawberry Festival’ and ‘Camino Real’. June-bearing types typically produce higher yields before high temperatures decrease production. There is interest in research of heat-tolerant varieties that do well in southern climates. Soil pH can be a concern, especially in regions where pH may be as high as 7.5 to 8.0. Soil amendments including sulfur, compost or using high acid fertilizer formulations may be needed. Strawberry pests in the region include insects like spider mites, aphids, Thrips, lygus bugs, crickets, and lepidopteran pests. Economically-damaging fruit diseases include Botrytis, Powdery mildew and Colletotrichum; and root diseases like Rhizoctonia and Phytophthora. Strawberry sales are targeted primarily for retail markets (farmer’s markets, roadside stands, CSAs, u-pick operations) or sales of jams and jellies. Fresh market sales occur from February through May or when high temperatures decrease production. Large-acreage growers (over 20 acres) contract with local wholesalers and retailers for use in various products including ice cream, jams, and jellies. While there continues to be small increases in mid-south strawberry acreage, there are also many new challenges facing growers and increased training opportunities and continued research for the region are needed.