The first study examines the relationship between soil potassium levels and leaf potassium concentration in rabbiteye and southern highbush blueberries. Results indicate that increasing soil potassium does not necessarily lead to higher potassium uptake in leaves, suggesting that growers may need to reconsider fertilizer application strategies to avoid unnecessary inputs without yield benefits.
The second study evaluates the effectiveness of photoselective devices in enhancing blueberry productivity. Researchers found that modifying light conditions using these technologies resulted in improved fruit development and overall yield, demonstrating the potential of light management techniques in controlled cultivation environments.
Together, these studies provide actionable insights for blueberry growers looking to refine nutrient management practices and leverage advanced technologies to maximize crop performance. By optimizing fertilization strategies and integrating photoselective solutions, producers can improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance the sustainability of blueberry farming.
Dr. Ames is Assistant Professor and Small Fruit Extension Specialist at The University of Georgia. Her research program focuses on increasing the efficiency of the production system by improving production management practices. Updating fertilization guidelines for the blueberry industry in Georgia is one area of research program. Improving fertilization practices will allow farmers to have a more efficient and sustainable production system.
The phoselective devices publication was part of Amit Godara's MS thesis, partnered with Opti-harvest to test their technology as a replacement for grow tubes.
The K publication is part of PhD student, Natalia Espinoza's dissertation. The blueberry industry in Georgia hasn't updated blueberry fertilization guidelines since 1990, and with new southern highbush varieties being planted, fertilization management and nutrient sufficiency ranges need to be updated.
The full stories can be found on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal website at:
https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18251-24 and https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18379-24
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.
Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community - scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.
