IMPROVING BERRY CROP PRODUCTION SYSTEMS TO MEET CURRENT NEEDS AND CHALLENGES IN THE MID-ATLANTIC REGION

1. Continue to develop optimum methods of producing strawberries in soilless production systems. This will provide growers with options that give them better control over environmental conditions and disease pressure - two factors that currently negatively impact strawberry production. (Demchak)2. Develop a better understanding of the many factors affecting strawberry anthracnose inoculum presence in planting stock, in growers' fields, and the surrounding landscape to identify ways to decrease anthracnose pressure. (Demchak and Marini)3. Continue to evaluate the long-term effects of different organic matter soil amendments and mulches to improve establishment and yields of blueberry plantings. (Marini and Demchak)4. Evaluate blueberry cultivars for their suitability and adaptability to production on mineral soils. (Marini and Demchak)