Prospects and problems of blueberry growing in China.

摘要

In China, there are four major regions for blueberries (Vaccinium L.) production: the Northeast, Shandong Province, the Southeast and the Southwest. In 2007, the total area was >1300 ha, with a yield >400 tons. South China has a vast territory of favorable conditions for blueberry growing, including acidic soils with appropriate air temperature and water availability. The major problems include: (1) selection of an inappropriate growing site, (2) insufficient planting material, (3) limited availability cultivar choices, (4) grower's unfamiliarity with blueberry cultural practices, and (5) grower's lack of experience with fruit harvest and processing. The establishment of demonstration plantations could be a practical and effective way to guide the development of blueberry growing in China.