The annual Blackberry Field Day on June 10 attracted growers from Arkansas and neighboring states, aiming to explore industry status, including emerging varieties and technologies enhancing operational efficiency.
Jackie Lee, director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture's Fruit Research Station in Clarksville, noted the year's challenging start, emphasizing adverse weather impacts. "We had a total of four hailstorms, the worst occurring on March 15, which caused a lot of damage to blackberry canes," Lee said. Damages continued with challenges including anthracnose and fire blight from the open wounds, a rarity in blackberry cultivation.
Northwest Arkansas faced more storms, affecting fruit and vegetable producers until May 18. Lee mentioned that though the station's crops weren't entirely lost, critical damage required culling about one-third of the initial fruit harvest due to lack of marketability. "We culled about 120 pounds and harvested about 220 pounds. That's a much deeper cut than in a normal year," she stated. Prospects appear better for remaining crops. "The good news is that the fruit that's supposed to come off next week is of really high quality," she said.
Discussion on variety selection is prominent among growers. Lee pointed out that the response hinges on growers' marketing strategies and target audiences. Since the Division initiated blackberry breeding in 1964, notable varieties like Caddo, Ponca, and Natchez have gained international market preference. Margaret Worthington now leads breeding efforts, introducing new entries such as Sweet Ark Immaculate to extend harvesting seasons.
The Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association, established in 2018 and having over 50 members, has influenced the field day's agenda, prioritizing technological advancements. Recent field days featured drone applications and a University of Arkansas Engineering Department showcase on potential future harvesting technologies. Lee said, "One thing we've started highlighting more is new technology."
In addition, the research station conducts public events like the February pruning workshop, covering techniques for blackberry, muscadines, grapes, and more.
Source: Banner News