Field Strategies for Rose Hip Production in Prince Edward Island

Abstract

Market demand for rose hips from wild rose (Rosa spp.) plants is increasing as research reveals the valuable nutraceutical compounds that they contain. Roses grow wild throughout Prince Edward Island, Canada, and commercial production of rose hips is a recently new venture in this province. This study examined the long-term effects of several management practices on rose hip production in Prince Edward Island. Cuttings from native wild populations were planted in a replicated trial at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Crops and Livestock Research Centre, Harrington Research Farm in Harrington, Prince Edward Island, in 2004. Treatments consisted of in-row mulch (none, straw, or bark); fertility (none, compost, or fertilizer); and two inter-row (tilled or sod). Mulch, especially straw mulch, promoted overall plant size and yield, while fertilizer promoted plant height and yield. Inter-row tilling was best during the first years of growth, while inter-row sod led to increased plant height in later years. Results indicated that management practices may need to be adjusted as plant establishment proceeds in order to maintain healthy and productive plants for long-term commercial production.