Effect of Low Tunnels and Planting Dates on the Fruit Quality of Organic Day-Neutral Strawberries in High Tunnels in North Carolina

Abstract

ABSTRACT Fresh strawberry is in high demand because of the fruit’s unique flavor, taste, and high nutritional value. Berry quality is vital for fresh markets. Day-neutral strawberry varieties such as Albion and San Andreas have proven to produce a higher yield and better quality fruit than some short-day varieties. High tunnels (HT) and low tunnels (LT) are considered as good micro-environmental management options for the season extension of strawberries. However, the effects of LT inside HT on berry quality of day-neutral strawberries have not been reported. This 2-year study aimed to determine if LT and planting dates would affect the fruit quality of day-neutral strawberries in organically managed HT. The weight, size, color, texture, total soluble solids (TSS), and total titratable acidity (TTA) of berries were quantified. Planting dates and LT did not affect fruit quality variables except that fruit weight was reduced in LT in March and April. ‘Albion’ had larger, firmer fruit, and had higher TSS and TAA values than ‘San Andreas,’ except in samples collected in February. ‘San Andreas’ had more reddish and brighter fruit than ‘Albion.’ Although ‘Albion’ may produce better quality fruit than ‘San Andreas,’ both varieties would produce quality fruit for fresh markets in early spring. Including LT in HT did not benefit the fruit quality of organic day-neutral strawberries.