In August, news broke in the strawberry-growing industry that there was a large outbreak of Neopestalotiopsis (Neo-P), an emerging strawberry fungal disease affecting every part of the plant (crown, roots, leaves, fruit). This has impacted thousands of growers across North America, causing shipments to be canceled and many growers to abandon strawberry-growing plans this season.
In 2023, Nourse Farms, a North American berry plant propagator, had the foresight to invest in propagation techniques that help mitigate risks such as Neo-P while enhancing overall plant quality.
John Place, Nourse Farms CEO said: "It starts with our virus-indexed tissue culture mother plants. In the past year, we've expanded our propagation systems to shield our plants from weather-related stress and reduce disease pressures. Our stringent quality control processes are designed to ensure our plants are in the best position to meet the highest cleanliness and health standards."
Nourse Farms' North Carolina glasshouse is used primarily for strawberry tip production.
Enhanced Plant Quality Through Raised Rail Systems
Nourse Farms' adoption of the GeGe rail tray system protected by Haygrove tunnels at their Massachusetts and North Carolina facilities is a game-changer for plant quality. This setup covers four acres in Massachusetts and 13 acres in North Carolina, improving airflow around the plants, encouraging better root development, and resulting in sturdier, more vigorous plants. The controlled environment of the rail trays paired with the tunnels reduces the risk of soil contact and water splashing, protecting the plants from disease exposure and ensuring they arrive at customers' fields ready to perform.
Controlling Every Step from Lab to Field
Nourse Farms' unique process allows the organization to maintain control over every stage of plant production. This holistic approach enables Nourse Farms to respond swiftly to industry challenges, innovate continuously, and deliver exceptional quality plants that meet the evolving needs of growers.
"With unpredictable weather patterns and emerging disease pressures, we recognized the need to control our entire propagation process," said Place.
For more information:
Nourse Farms
www.noursefarms.com