During the Blackberry Field Day on June 10 in Arkansas, attendees gathered to discuss industry developments, including new varieties and advancements in technology aimed at enhancing efficiency and profitability. Despite these prospects, growers face immediate challenges as 2025 approaches.
According to Jackie Lee, director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture's Fruit Research Station, the current season has been marked by severe weather. Lee noted, "We had a total of four hailstorms, the worst occurring on March 15, which caused a lot of damage to blackberry canes." The hailstorms left blackberry plants vulnerable to anthracnose and fire blight due to open wounds.
Similar conditions were experienced in other parts of Johnson County and Northwest Arkansas, with hailstorms as recent as May 18 affecting fruit producers. At the Fruit Research Station, approximately a third of the initial crop had to be culled due to marketability issues, although future harvests are anticipated to improve in quality.
The event also addressed variety selection, a frequent inquiry among attendees. Lee explained that variety choice depends on the grower's marketing strategy and target audience. The breeding program initiated by the Division of Agriculture in 1964 has produced globally recognized varieties like Caddo, Ponca, and Natchez.
The program continues under Margaret Worthington, with the recent release of Sweet Ark Immaculate aimed at extending the season for U-pick operations and commercial growers. The Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association, established in 2018 and now with over 50 members, shapes the annual field day agenda to cater to growers' needs.
Jackie Lee stated, "One thing we've started highlighting more is new technology," reflecting the inclusion of demonstrations on drone and harvesting technologies from the University of Arkansas Engineering Department in this year's event. Besides the field day, the research station hosts additional public events, such as a pruning workshop led by Lee.
Source: Pine Bluff Commercial
