USDA Researches Year Round Strawberries

Kim Lures, a USDA researcher, has developed a method to grow strawberries in low tunnels, extending the growing season in Maryland. This innovation allows for three harvests a year, improving local availability and fruit quality. The low tunnels help maintain optimal conditions for the plants, reducing disease and enhancing fruit health. Lures' production system supports breeding programs for locally adapted varieties, and it can be used with California-bred varieties. The economic potential is significant, with strawberries being a highly valuable crop. Lures aims for year-round production along the East Coast, benefiting local growers and consumers.

What innovation did Kim Lures introduce to extend the strawberry growing seasons?

• Vertical farming

• Genetically modified seeds

• Hydroponic systems

• Low tunnels

How do low tunnels benefit strawberry plants during different seasons?

• They reduce the need for fertilizers.

• They increase humidity levels year-round.

• They keep plants cool in summer and warm in winter.

• They provide extra sunlight in winter.

What is one of the main advantages of Lures' production system for strawberries?

• It increases the size of the strawberries.

• It enables the breeding of varieties that fruit for months.

• It allows for the use of less water.

• It reduces the need for pesticides.

Why is year-round strawberry production particularly beneficial for growers?

• Strawberries have a high value per acre.

• Strawberries are easy to transport.

• It requires less land.

• It reduces labor costs.

Which regions are targeted for year-round strawberry production using Lures' system?

• Midwest

• Southwest

• East Coast

• West Coast