We are delighted to report that we are expanding our production this coming season.
Both of these new forms of berry plants are grown to be fruited in a soilless (substrate) system. They are planted into 100% COIR or aCOIR/PEAT mix to achieve the best results for rooting and maintaining the root systems for the production cycle. An important component is the computer system that monitors the number of waterings each day and the PPM or Electrical Conductivity (EC) of the fertilizer that is injected into each watering. Computer injection systems have been developed to accomplish these requirements for both large and small productions.
One dependable way to experience the use of strawberry tray plants is to set up a field with tabletops and crop covers over the rows. The grow bags are placed on the table tops and the tray plants are planted into the bags. Then, 55 to 60 days later, fruit production begins.
The tabletops could also be installed in tunnels with day neutral varieties to maximize production. Once this system is set up with the initial investment, you have a permanent area to produce strawberries.
An important note: We have planted the strawberry tray plants into soil and have experienced that it does not work. The plant is not able to access nutrients in the soil as opposed to a hydroponic system.
The opportunity with long canes is the same. Many growers are now planting raspberries in the soil in high tunnels. To get away from growing in soil, the long canes are potted up into a 7-liter pot, from the 1.8-liter pot that we grow them in, to produce the crop of fruit.
We will continue to share our experience and knowledge with you as we learn more.