Researchers examined breeding strategies targeting key diseases and insect pests raspberries. By identifying and incorporating resistant traits, breeders aim to reduce reliance on chemical controls, improve plant health, and support sustainable production practices. The study emphasizes the potential for genetic improvement to enhance both the profitability and environmental sustainability of red berry cultivation.
In addition, the studies assessed blackberry (Rubus spp.) performance in the Pacific Northwest, evaluating and highlighting the release of 'Thunderhead' the first erect primocane fruiting blackberry bred and tested by USDA for this region. Results provide insights on growth patterns, fruit yield, and management practices that optimize production in the region. Decades of research into resistance traits is summarized in the study, which emphasizes the potential for genetic improvement to enhance both the profitability and environmental sustainability of raspberry cultivation.
Small fruit production in the Pacific Northwest is a significant segment of the horticultural industry, where Oregon and Washington respectively generate the highest production volumes of blackberry and red raspberry in the United States. These findings offer growers evidence- based strategies for breeding, cultivar selection, and management practices that reduce pest and disease pressure, improve productivity, and promote sustainable production systems.
This research was performed by the USDA-ARS-HCPGIRU small fruit breeding program (Corvallis, OR) under Dr. Michael Hardigan in collaboration with former USDA-ARS nematologist Dr. Inga Zasada, additional ARS pathologists and entomologists, and Oregon State University's Endowed Professor for Northwest Berry Production and Management, Dr. Scott Lukas. Our review covering the various aspects of breeding for pest and disease resistance in raspberries was spearheaded by Ph.D. student Savannah Phipps.
According to Dr. Hardigan, the goal of this research was to "assist breeders in developing raspberry cultivars with longer productive lifespans. The publication of 'Thunderhead', an erect primocane fruiting blackberry cultivar for the Pacific Northwest, was intended to highlight a new resource for growers, and USDA efforts to diversify the region's production beyond machine harvesting early-season trailing blackberries for the processing industry. Primocane fruiters offer benefits of season extension, improved fresh market applications, and reduced management costs. This last point is critical in the face of increasing challenges with cost and availability of seasonal labor in the Northwest. 'Thunderhead' helps to address these challenges, and produces exceptional yields of blackberries with excellent flavor and post-harvest quality."
Michael Hardigan is a Research Geneticist with the USDA-ARS in Corvallis, Oregon. He is focused on developing high-quality processing and fresh market varieties of blackberry and red and black raspberry for the Pacific Northwest region.
The full article can be read on the ASHS HortScience electronic Journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18571-25 and https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18617-25
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.
