Berries grown in pots could increase production

19/11/2015

The berries (such as blueberries and blackberries) have become popular in the United States, and Gary Gao, an extension specialist at Ohio State University, is studying how the cultivation of berries in pots can help boost crops.

In his two-year research project, Gao will plant blueberries, blueberries and raspberries in pots and then transport the containers to a sheltered place like a fresh barn before the extremely cold temperatures arrive.

Gao noticed that the commercial producers of berries from Ohio experienced cold damage in many plantations, especially if they were not protected before the arrival of winter

"Even blueberries, which typically can withstand cold temperatures, have suffered damage in Ohio in the last two years"declares

Gao will also study the berries grown in pots under protective covers and compared with traditional crops. He also hopes that the berries grown in pots help expand the growing season, "as potted fruit plants can be transported to warmer environments sooner or later to speed up or slow down the fruit harvest season and thus maximize profit margin". What is expected is that producers perceive an increase not only in production, but also in profits.

Gao's project is funded by a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture to specialty crops through the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Gao explains. The project is working already.

Source: Growingproduce.com