FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, August 22, 2011
CONTACT:
Margaret Hart, Communications Coordinator
651.201.6131, Margaret.hart@state.mn.us
Researchers to share results of blackberry production
Two field days feature evaluations of Primocane blackberries
Participants in the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program will host two free, on-farm field days to feature the results of their research in Primocane blackberry production.
The first field day will be held Friday, August 26, 2011 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at Elm Tree Farm, 14726 Afton Blvd. South, Afton, MN. In 2009, grower Patrica Bliska and University of Minnesota researcher Terrance Nennich planted several varieties of the new Primocane blackberries in a high tunnel. The first two years of the project were very successful with abundant growth. The high tunnel collapsed from extreme winter weather conditions last year and as result the blackberries are now growing in open fields. The field day participants will see the difference in blackberry varieties and growth habits.
Directions to 14726 Afton Blvd. South, Afton MN - Elm Tree Farm:
From the west, take I-94 East to exit 253. Take the right fork onto Manning Ave. Go about four miles and turn left on 40th St. Go four more miles and Elm Tree Farm will be on the left. From the east, take I-94 West to exit 258. Turn left on St. Croix Trail South for 4.5 miles to County Road 18. Turn right on CR 18 for 1.5 miles. Farm is on the right.
The second field day will be held Wednesday, August 31, 2011 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the North Central Research and Outreach Center (NCROC) in Grand Rapids, MN. At this field day, Nennich will show the third year of blueberry growth and production as well as raspberries grown in a high tunnel. Participants will view the high tunnels and several research varieties; discuss production data and growing practices.
Directions to the NCROC:
From Grand Rapids, take State Highway 169 East for about 1.5 miles. There is a sign at the entrance of the research center.
Contacts:
Terrance Nennich, North Central Research and Outreach Center, 218-280-7713
Jeanne Ciborowski, MDA Sustainable Agriculture Program, 1-651-201-6217
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