QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF STRAWBERRY TRAY PLANTS IN HIGH LATITUDE CONDITIONS

Abstract

The aim of a series of experiments was to examine nursery production of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) plants for an extended harvest season in the northern European conditions. Different pre-culture treatments were applied, and the yielding potential of transplants potential was tested in fruit production trials. The quantity and composition of the carbohydrate reserves in the crowns and roots of the plants were studied in order to assess the transplant quality. The carbohydrate reserves varied according to the cultivar and the plant type. The total carbohydrate concentration was higher in the crowns and roots of tray plants than in those of bare-rooted waiting bed plants. Leaf removal prior to cold storing enhanced the cropping potential of waiting bed plants. A period of short-day treatment prior to the natural short-day season increased flower initiation, but not the fruit yield. After transplanting, the carbohydrate reserves in the crowns and roots of cold-stored tray plants reduced strongly. This reduction was smaller if white mulch instead of black mulch was used. Fruit yield was, however, not affected in terms of quantity.