An Overview of the Blueberry Industry in Florida

摘要

From 1997 to 2012, the blueberry acreage in Florida has expanded by 1950 ha, with the majority of this increase in central and south central Florida. Also during this period, the value of the industry has grown from just over SUSS million to greater than $US62 million. Moreover, the Florida blueberry industry received significantly higher freight on board (FOB) prices than other marketing regions in the United States during the traditional "market window" from late March to early May 2012 to 2014. Southern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosom hybrids) cultivars adaptable to low-chill sites in central and south central Florida are commonly planted. Inputs such as pine bark, hydrogen cyanamide application, and overhead irrigation for freeze protection are often utilized by Florida producers to enhance early season fruit production.