TRENDS IN STRAWBERRY PRODUCTION AND RESEARCH IN CANADA: 1980–1987

Strawberry production in Canada increased gradually from 1980 to 1987 and averaged 31 800 t per year during this period. Farm gate value increased from $28 million in 1980 to $47 million in 1986. Production is primarily sold as fresh fruit in all regions except for British Columbia, where about 90% is processed. The harvest season is generally of 4 weeks duration in any location, and exports are minimal. In 1987, Canada imported 22 400 t fresh strawberries from the U.S.A., and 7 900 t frozen from Mexico, U.S.A., and Poland.

Strawberries continue to be grown in the matted row system. The choice of cultivars has evolved since 1980 with a reduction in acreage of 'Redcoat' and a rapid increase in 'Kent'. 'Veestar' and 'Totem' remain as major cultivars. Much grower and researcher interest is focused on extending the harvest season through the use of June-bearers in the ribbon row and waiting bed cultural systems, and by the cultivation of day-neutral cultivars. Day-neutral cultivars 'Tribute' and 'Tristar' hold particular promise, and cultivar improvement continues. Current research on harvest mechanization is an attempt to stimulate the processing industry and reduce imports of frozen product. Increased emphasis is being directed toward producing reliable cultivars, through conventional and cell culture techniques, by enhancing resistance to pathogens and herbicides.