Brief Summary of Minutes of Annual Meeting

Brief Summary of the Minutes:

October 14:

Dr. Peter Oudemans, Professor and Director of the P.E. Marucci Center for Blueberry and Cranberry Research at Rutgers University welcomed the group and gave a background introduction of the research center. Dr. Gina Sideli, Assistant Professor did introductions and an ice breaker warm up exercise.

Submitted state reports were distributed electronically to the participants.

State reports followed.

Two NJ blueberry growers, Denny Doyle, Chairman of the NJ Blueberry Council, Brandon Raso of Variety Farms came to meeting for lunch. They shared their thoughts and experience with blueberry traits and how the industry is doing. We had a blueberry tasting and discussion around the global market and the size/firmness/taste of imported blueberries.

We went to the Ocean Spray receiving station in Chatsworth for a tour with Ocean Spray Scientist Lindsay Wells-Hansen and manager Alonza Williams. The tour included the wash station where the berries are rinsed, then cleaned and samples taken for quality checks (color, firmness, defects). A discussion on the Ocean Spray priorities for quality and most important factors was part of the tour.

We then went to Pine Island Cranberry where we talked with Mike Haines, owner and operator, as well as Lindsay Wells-Hansen about cranberry farming. They took us to a bog that was being harvested to see the process of flooding and gathering into truck.

Lastly, we went to Integrity Propagations to meet with Greg Haddon, manager, who discussed how cranberries are maintained and cut into many new plants. There was discussion around maintaining purity of cultivars and methods to control disease and insect pressures.

We went to the Historical Smithville Inn for dinner and discussion of the historical agriculture and what it is today in south Jersey.

The meeting concluded after dinner.

October 15:

State reports were given throughout the morning.

In afternoon we did a lab and field tour of the Marucci Center. We first looked at the blueberry and cranberry breeding greenhouses and headhouse space which included a discussion of germplasm collection and phenotyping. We toured the Rutgers and USDA blueberry cultivar planting and the breeding blocks. At this point in the season the plants were senescing but there was a discussion on plants, breeding timelines and experimental designs. We then toured some of the breeding bogs and the difference between experimental bogs of cranberries.

Our afternoon concluded with finishing state reports. Dr. Sideli had the group taste low acid cranberries, and a discussion was held around sugar/acid ratio and flavor in fruit.

A business meeting was held to go over the objectives and purpose of the NCCC212 group.

The group met at Sharrott Winery for dinner. Winemaker and owner Larry Sharrott along with Atlantic County Agent, Gary Pavolis introduced the grapes grown for wines in the region and provided an overview of the wine industry in NJ.

The meeting concluded after dinner.

Reports were submitted by BC Berry, Rutgers University, Cornell University, North Dakota State University, North Carolina State University, Michigan State University, University of Arkansas, and Montana State University

2025 NCCC-212 Agenda:

Thursday, October 16: travel day

Accomplishments:

16 participants from 10 US state universities, 1 international (Canada) private company participated in the NCCC212 meeting this year.

Most participants have extension appointments and/or regularly communicate with growers and other members of the small fruit industry. Regular and ongoing communication provided by NCCC-212 annual meetings allow for the group to share information, increase knowledge, and extend that knowledge to regional industries. The extension of information occurs through publications of extension articles and/or newsletters, presentations at workshops and local and regional meetings (e.g. Great Lakes Expo, Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Convention, Washington Small Fruit Conference, South East Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference, Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement Association Grower Short Course, North American Strawberry Growers Association annual conference, North American Raspberry and Blackberry Association annual conference), webinars, web sites, and one-on-one communications.

This project has resulted in the release of numerous new cultivars and the development of germplasm and selections with specific traits needed for adaptation to regional industries. Breeding programs at Cornell University, USDA-Beltsville, USDA-Corvallis, Washington State University, British Columbia, University of Arkansas, Rutgers University, Michigan State University, University of Minnesota, University of Florida, University of California-Davis, and North Carolina State University have produced cultivars that meet the needs of strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, grape, muscadine and other small fruit growers across North America. Many of these breeding and genetics programs have also developed new genomic resources (for strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, and other berry crops) and markers for traits of economic interest to accelerate cultivar development efforts.

NCCC-212 collaborators have conducted research on genetics and genomics, taxonomy, production practices, propagation methods, protected culture, integrated pest and disease management, and other topics to improve the productivity, sustainability, and profitability of production systems. Other research has focused on organic methods, pollination, variety testing, and modeling for cold hardiness and disease risk. Research has also been conducted on the effects of cultivar, environment, and cultural management factors on fruit flavor, texture, shelf life, and nutritional quality.

The results of these projects have been disseminated to stakeholders via refereed and extension publications, field days, grower visits, conferences, and production guides. Many of these research and extension efforts have been regional or national collaborations.

Overall, the NCCC-212 the 2025 meeting participants reported coauthoring 81 peer reviewed publications in the past year and presenting research and extension results to grower groups and professional society conferences.

Objective 1. Develop small fruit germplasm through cooperative breeding and evaluation programs.

• Rutgers found a major quantitative-trait-loci within germplasm accessions that controls a specific flavonol quercetine-3-rhamnose production, while demonstrating that wild and landrace accessions maintain their importance as genetic resources for breeding improvements. Rutgers collected more than 500 additional accessions to validate the DNA markers associated with fruit acidity and resistance to fruit rot.
• Montana State University’s small fruit evaluation program focuses on cold-hardy berries and grapes. The main objectives for grape evaluation are wine grapes that ripen is a short season (~2000 GDD base 50° F). Currently, we are evaluating 20 varieties in a variety of training systems.  In berries, we are finishing up a 10-year trial of Haskap, Currants, Elderberry, Dwarf Sour Cherry, Aronia, and Serviceberry.  Better performing varieties of Haskap/Honeyberry and Dwarf Sour Cherry may offer higher returns to growers.  The research is now focused on characterizing traits associated with berry maturity, quality, and harvest ease (fruit abscission/attachment force). We are also evaluating how varieties, harvest timing, and storage effect concentrations of phenolic compounds in Haskap.
• Michigan State University- As part of the USDA SCRI VacCAP project (https://www.vacciniumcap.org/), the Edger lab, in collaboration with other VacCAP members, has generated and publicly released a suite of new genomic resources for the Vaccinium community, included assembling and annotating high-quality genomes (most exceeding 95% BUSCO completeness) for Northern Highbush (NHB), Southern Highbush (SHB), and cranberry (CB). These genomic resources, including the first pangenome graph, are publicly available now on the Genome Database for Vaccinium (GDV) (https://www.vaccinium.org/). Additional pangenome analyses are currently underway to identify the variable gene content contributing to fruit quality differences between various cultivars. The genotyping sequence capture array has already been used to identify specific genomic regions encoding resistance to two major industry concerns: Anthracnose fruit rot (AFR) and the blueberry stem gall wasp (BSGW).
• Utah State University County Extension Faculty established a new grape cultivar trial on a commercial farm in Genola, Utah County. For elderberry we have successfully multiplied several Utah selections in tissue culture and have had some limited success in root initiation. We are now on our third round of experiments determining optimum stratification requirements for seed germination and have established seedling evaluation sites at 5 locations, including 4 commercial farms.
• North Dakota State University initiated a grape germplasm enhancement project in 2009 with the goal of developing one red and white wine grape that will be winter hardy to -40 F without protection and ripen with only 1800 GDD base 50 F. Utilizing riparia for winter hardiness. Collected native Juneberry biotypes for nursery evaluation in comparison to the most common cultivars available in Canada and the US.  Continue to evaluate thirty-one biotypes and 14 named cultivars at two locations (Williston and Absaraka) for phenotypic and fruit yield evaluations. Dr. Dai continues to test chokecherry lines for resistance to X-disease. 
• Cornell University- directed by Dr. Courtney Weber strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry to extend the growing season and improve the quality of berries in NY. In the spring of 2025, plants of 3 raspberry and 2 strawberry selections were propagated for trials with growers. Plants were sent to 2 sites for commercial trials and additional trials are ongoing from previous years. As a result of trial evaluations at Cornell AgriTech and with cooperating growers, two primocane red raspberries in September 2024. ‘Crimson Beauty’ (NY17-25) produces in the early season, starting in late July to early August. The fruit is large, bright, glossy red with good flavor and firmness. ‘Crimson Blush’ (NY17-35) produces in the late season, starting in early September and extends the NY season until temperatures become too low. The fruit is large, firm and light red with very good flavor and storage capacity. These varieties are available through the commercial nurseries Phyllatech and North American Plants and are available for licensing. Plant patents were submitted for both varieties in 2025 and are under review.
• North Carolina State University -Strawberry: Hoffmann Program: Development of searchable HTS genome database of 13 strawberry cultivars (currently on local machine, online access in progress); Developing of indoor strawberry nursery at NCSU, hosting 13 genetics; Evaluating phenotypic propagation properties across 13 strawberry cultivars; Evaluating strawberry genetics from private and public breeding programs for Neo-P tolerance. Fernandez Program: Evaluated 7 cultivars from UC Davis, 4 cultivars from UF. 3 NCSU selections, NC 22-011, NC 21-035 and NC 22-005 in advanced trials with growers.

Blueberry: Ashrafi/Spencer Program: Sent NC5303, NC5305, NC5289 to Michigan State University, Oregon Blueberry, MBG (Georgia location) for trialing. Hosted Dr. Chu to review UGA materials sent to NCSU for testing; will be propagating and sending to UGA for further trialing and potential co-release. Last year of evaluating NC and UF cultivars for the Auburn-lead AFRI project. NC5289 showing high promise across all locations; to be patented by year end. Viticulture: Hoffmann/McDaniel Program: Developing two muscadine hybrid evaluation field trials, collaborating with private and public breeding programs in US. Evaluating of 5 UC-Davis PD-resistant cultivars in replicated trials; Caneberry: Fernandez Program: NC 740, blackberry, thornless, erect, mid-season, high sugar/excellent flavor to be released in 2026.

• University of Arkansas -Worthington- New muscadine releases:  Mighty Fine – black, seeded fresh-market muscadine with perfect flowers, large berry size, excellent cold hardiness, improved texture, and exceptional flavor. Altus- black, seeded processing muscadine with perfect flowers, excellent cold hardiness, attractive juice color, and unique aromatics with excellent processing quality for juice and wine.
• British Columbia- Upcoming release of BC 14-40-158, a mid-season blueberry with good fruit quality and consistent high yields, and the first blueberry release from the BC program. Raspberry: Upcoming release of BC 1855.11, a mid-late season floricane-fruiting raspberry with phenomenal fruit quality, primarily for the fresh market. Release of WSU 2188, a midseason floricane-fruiting raspberry for the processed market, tested in cooperation with Washington State University. Strawberry: Upcoming release of BC 10-2-1, the first day-neutral strawberry release from the BC program.

Objective 2. Develop practices for small fruit production tailored for climatic and market needs of growers.

• Rutgers phenotyping workflow underwent a fundamental transformation which became a breakthrough during 2025. The implementation of barcoding technology together with digital scale systems minimized sample identification mistakes and data entry mistakes which resulted in higher operational efficiency and better data quality. We evaluated more than 150 genotypes for fruit weight, photographic documentation and firmness assessments followed by chemical analysis of TA and Brix and anthocyanins.
• Montana State University focus on bird and weed management. We also are conducting research on mechanized harvest practices for small scale berry growers (low- cost shakers, catch trays, and cleaning) and larger-scale growers of Haskap/Honeyberry. 
• University of Georgia evaluated biochar, fertilizer rates, Calcium and Boron accumulation, and the use of different fertilizers helped us reassess the nutrient management guidelines. Collaborative efforts with Opti-Harvest on photoselective devices improved understanding of light control during plant establishment.
• Michigan State University Entomology (Isaacs) established a trial in early 2024 to compare new cultivars for their resistance or susceptibility to blueberry stem gall wasp. Research on spotted wing drosophila (SWD) has been in collaboration with many other states as part of the SCRI- and OREI funded projects led by UGA and University of Maine. This has included comparison of insecticide efficacy in the field to support registration of new insecticides by companies and the IR-4 Program.
• Utah State University’s Robert Schaeffer studies microbial bio-control agents (mBCA) and found a yeast-like fungus (Aureobasidium pullulans) with some promise, but colonization is cultivar dependent. Claudia Nischwitz (Extension Plant Pathologist) conducted a survey of grape vineyards across the state to determine prevalence of insect pests and diseases. She found grapeleaf skeletonizer and powdery mildew, but was unable to detect spotted lantern fly, grape or vine mealy bug in any traps. All samples analyzed were negative for Pierce’s disease. Burdette Barker (Extension Irrigation Engineering) has a project measuring water use of in commercial vineyards located in Washington and Box Elder counties. Heavily equipped vineyards,satellites and UAV sensors were used to track water use. Seasonal water use was 307 mm, 42 mm from soil reserves.
• North Dakota State University’s grape had winter dieback again which was attributed to large fluctuating temperatures above and below freezing in February and March. Examining methods to reduce trunk splitting. A PhD student is completing trial evaluating the effect of a caterpillar tunnel on productivity of ‘Marquette’ and ‘Petite Pearl’. Dr. Dai continues to evaluate management practices in red raspberries. A PhD student is evaluating ways to increase cold tolerance in strawberries.
• Cornell University directed by Dr. Anna Wallis for berry pest IPM monitoring and extension resources. Email communication was used to recruit previous collaborators for the SWD monitoring network. Traps were distributed in April to collaborators. Traps are deployed in May–June and monitored weekly. A new monitoring site, NYSIPM Berry Pest Monitoring Network Blog and Map, was set up for grower collaborators to report their trap data inkling trap captures (number of SWD males and females). Trap monitoring was concluded after ‘sustained trap capture’ (at least 2 consecutive weeks with positive SWD), this was typically by the end of June. Monitoring continued for the duration of the season (typically through August) if requested by the grower.

Data were summarized and reported at regional meetings including Northeast Tree Fruit IPM Working Group (NETFIPMWG) and Great Lake Fruit Workers (GLFW) annual conferences in October and November. Seasonal updates, monitoring protocols, and best management recommendations were shared at in person ‘Twilight meetings’ in Western NY, held once per month at commercial farms from May through August.

• Oregon State University Singh, S. Lukas, A. Retano, and D. Bryla. An organic blueberry field trial was established in 2021 at Oregon State University’s Hermiston Agricultural Research and Extension Center to evaluate four organic amendments, including biochar, grape pomace compost, grape pomace co-composted with biochar, and woodchips (grower standard). Results showed that incorporated compost resulted in higher soil organic matter, increased nutrient availability, and greater microbial activity than the other treatments. However, none of the treatments had any effect on the structure of the bacterial community, which by the end of the second year of the study was largely dominated by Acidobacteria, or on the structure of the fungal community, which in both years was dominated by Ascomycota and Mortierellomycota. Data collected from this study will help us understand the suitability of organic inputs to enhance soil health indices while improving resource use efficiency. To provide industry with scientifically evaluated yield-quality data, a long-term research project was conducted with growers and winemakers as citizen scientists with replicated thinning trials in their vineyards and wineries. A 10-year data set was generated from 2012-2021. Over 20 companies participated in the research across Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Data included phenology, fruitfulness, cluster and shoot counts, tissue macro- and micro-nutrients, yield, and pruning weight. A new planting of kiwiberry was established in summer 2025 that will provide space for production management research and a germplasm site for breeding efforts. A new planting of ‘Columbia Star’, thornless, trailing blackberry (Rubus L. subgenus Rubus Watson) was established in fall 2019 to study the impact of plant spacing (0.75 m vs. 1.5 m), chemical primocane suppression (with or without), and primocane training [August training vs. “new-over-old” (unpruned)] on its growth, yield, fruit quality, machine-harvest efficiency, and labor requirements.
• North Carolina State University -Strawberry: Hoffmann Program: Development of indoor propagation practices; Development of tray-plant temperature protocols for enhanced fruit production; Performance evaluation of CEA conditioned strawberry plug plants in 4 states (CA, FL, NC, NY). Viticulture: Hoffmann/McDaniel Program: Early development of image recognition of PD disease (in progress).
• British Columbia Blueberry: Pseudomonas blight screening method developed. Blueberry lines with putative resistance to aphid colonization identified. Plant parasitic nematode species present in blueberry plantings surveyed. Novel blueberry viruses and viral strains identified and diagnostic tools developed.

Objective 3: Evaluate pre- and postharvest fruit quality components, including enhanced flavor, texture/firmness, shelf life, and phytonutrients.

• Rutgers has primarily focused on organic acids in both blueberry and cranberry. Work has begun to investigate flavonols, sugars and volatiles. Blueberry texture is important and we started to use a texture analyzer to identify size and firmness in the breeding program.
• Montana State University is currently evaluating effects of genotype (variety), harvest timing/fruit maturity, and storage effects phenolic content in Haskap/Honeyberry. UV-A, red, and blue LED in cold storage did not improve storage/shelf life by increasing water loss but did increase the color and phenolic content of some fruits. Chitosan treatments improved shelf life in table grapes and currants but is not a technique that’s easily adopted by smaller-scale growers. We evaluated effects of pectinase treatments on juice extraction in cold hardy berries, increasing juice yields by 30-40%.  Working with commercial cideries, we compared juice yields and quality between belt and bladder presses and found that belt presses provide not only higher juice yields but also increased concentrations of phenolic compounds in the juice and finished cider.  
• University of Georgia performed postharvest studies in blueberry to improve the quality and storage potential of Georgia-grown blueberries. Trials evaluating pre-harvest 1-MCP applications across three cultivars were established. Machine-harvested berries were assessed for firmness, shelf life, and quality after storage. Additional research on controlled atmosphere (CA) and ozone (O₃) storage aimed to establish science-based recommendations to reduce postharvest losses and extend marketability. Field evaluations of University of Florida (UF) and University of California–Davis (UC Davis) strawberry cultivars were conducted to assess tolerance to Neopestalotiopsis and key horticultural performance traits under South Georgia conditions. For blackberry a pre-harvest study tested melatonin and methyl jasmonate applications to improve fruit quality and reduce environmental stress in blackberries.
• Michigan State University Physiology research (Vander Weide) completed a 3-year study comparing ground cover (wood mulch, black weed mat, reflective mulch) use in a blueberry orchard with Dr. Rufus Isaacs (MSU berry crop entomology). We observed that reflective mulch has potential to improve photosynthesis, fruit size and firmness, marketable yield (color), and reduce SWD populations in orchards. we completed a study evaluating delayed harvest strategy to improve blueberry flavor with Dr. Emily Mayhew’s (sensory science) lab at MSU. We identified that delayed harvest improves sweetness perception and overall liking, and is beneficial for “firm” cultivars, such as ‘Draper’ and ‘Duke’. We completed two 4-year study on PGR use in blueberry. We identified two PGRs with the  capacity to improve flavor-related volatile organic compounds in blueberry, which we hypothesize will  improve fruit flavor.  We completed a 2-year USDA-SCRI (https://www.bluedynamo.org/) funded project with Dr. Tim Miles’ lab at MSU (small fruit pathology) in 2025 on a to assess horticultural impacts fruit rot development in northern highbush blueberry. We identified that most blueberry cultivars are susceptible to botrytis and anthracnose fruit rots at bloom and prior to harvest (large green berry), necessitating fungicide applications at both stages to adequately control pathogens. we planted a kiwiberry vineyard on our MSU campus horticulture farm. This planting will be used for a variety trial, as well as future studies on this crop.
• North Dakota State University’s Collaboration with Dr. Shetty to examine the concentrations of human health compounds in haskap and black currant cultivars. A MS is concluding a study to evaluate methyl jasmonate application to hydroponic day-neutral strawberry cultivars to enhance health attributes. A MS is evaluating haskap cultivar and fermentation process on wine quality.
• Cornell University directed by Dr. Kerik Cox best biopesticides and use of germicidal light for managing fruit diseases in strawberries. Plug plants were planted in non-fumigated soil with white on black plastic mulch beds. Fungicide treatments were applied using a CO₂-pressurized backpack sprayer. The incidence of fruit on ‘Albion’ fruit was assessed at harvest and the incidence of Botrytis fruit rot and Anthracnose fruit rot expressed as the number of symptomatic fruits out of 10 collected fruit. The incidence of common leafspot was assessed two weeks after harvest and expressed as the number of symptomatic leaves out of 10 arbitrarily selected leaves.Phytotoxicity on fruit and leaves was assessed in a manner identical to disease with the exception that injured fruit and leaves with abiotic spots resulting from injury were assessed. Management of mites and insect pests in strawberries and other berries (directed by Dr. Greg Loeb). We successfully reared two larval parasitoids of SWD at Cornell AgriTech, Ganaspis brasiliensis (Gb1) and Leptopolina japonica (Lj). We released adult Gb1 males and females (600 total per site) at four commercial blueberry farms in the Finer Lakes/Lake Ontario regions. Using rearing data for parasitoids from our sites over 4 years, including 2024, in combination with a number of additional release sites managed by our collaborators in Maine and New Jersy, a colleague at Cornell with expertise in landscape ecology (graduate student Chloe Cho working with Dr. Katja Poveda from Cornell Entomology in Ithaca) examined how local landscape characteristics influenced recovery of Gk and Lj. We have discovered several compounds that deter egg laying in fruit by SWD.  We tested these under more realistic field conditions in order to further develop them as possible tactics for controlling SWD.  Activities included testing the efficacy of 2 penthyfuran 2pf) relative to other repellents, testing efficacy of 2pf in combination with attract and kill (push-pull approach) and testing the compatibility of repellents with biological control.
• Oregon State University These findings of research on mechanical damage and fruit transpiration during storage reduces strawberry shelf life. Hemp hurd LHC biopads provide an environmentally sustainable alternative to EPS by enhancing moisture absorption, cushioning capacity, and microbial protection, thereby improving strawberry quality during storage and distribution.
• North Carolina State University- Blueberry: Iorizzo Program: Evaluated the genetic mechanisms controlling texture, organic acids, sugars, and anthocyanin accumulation in blueberries. Organic acids and anthocyanin are under the control of major QTLs, while texture and sugars are highly quantitative traits. Functionally characterized the gene controlling anthocyanin acylation, an enzymatic reaction that could enhance anthocyanin absorption. Closed the VacCAP project, a grant supported by the USDA-SCRI program that contributed to advances genetic, genomic and phenotyping resources to evaluate and select for fruit quality traits in blueberry and cranberry. Ashrafi/Spencer Program: Blueberry: Potential VSU-led collaboration on metabolomics in process.

• University of Arkansas Closed a diagnostic gap by delivering the first validated detection system for SPMYEV, a listed virus lacking reliable assays. Developed a suite of infectious clones (SPMYEV, BCRV, BYVaV, BluVS) that also serve as VIGS vectors, bridging virology and breeding research. Strengthened certification frameworks with diagnostic pipelines (triplex endpoint PCR, duplex qPCR, ViMAPC controls) for BlScV and BluVS. Advanced phantom agent removal efforts, reducing unnecessary trade barriers and supporting global regulatory harmonization.

• British Columbia Blueberry: Bioanalytical platform for volatile organic compound (VOC) characterization developed for association of underlying genes with consumer “liking”. Raspberry: a high-throughput method for analyzing raspberry color/anthocyanins developed.

Objective 4: Identify opportunities and collaborate on the development of extension resources for multistate, regional, national, and/or international audiences.

• Rutgers outreach activities targeted New Jersey cranberry and blueberry stakeholders through annual meetings which drew between 30 to 40 growers and industry professionals. Our collaboration network consists of Dr. Neyhart from USDA and UW–Madison's image analysis team who provide color and size analysis software to enhance the phenotypic capabilities of our breeding program. Rutgers has established collaboration with University of Georgia and North Carolina State for acquiring blueberry selections/cultivars. We have also collaborated with University of Wisconsin on cold hardiness tolerance in blueberry cultivars and North Carolina State for understanding the genetics of bioactive compounds in blueberry. The partnerships bring enhanced data quality and create stronger institutional connections between organizations.
• Montana State University We are also collaborating with Universities of Minnesota and Wisconsin to conduct research and deliver outreach to Haskap/honeyberry growers.
• University of Georgia coordinated the blueberry session at the Southeast Fruit and Vegetable Conference, researchers from Michigan, Oregon, North Carolina, and Florida were invited to speak at the session and developed a workshop for the industry, showcasing grafted blueberries and the advantages and disadvantages of creating a new blueberry production system.
• Michigan State University A multi-state SCRI project focused on blueberry pollination is being led at MSU with colleagues from OR, WA, and FL, to compare stocking densities and colony placements for improving pollination, and we have developed a Pollination Planner decision-support tool to help growers plan their pollination strategies. North American High Chill Blueberry Trial Network: We are working with the “North American High Chill Blueberry Trial Network” to assess cultivars in each region (WSU, OSU, AAFC) and coordinate protocols, analysis, and findings.
• Cornell University (directed by Anya Stansell). Expanding berry extension reach in western NY. Over the April to December period, direct consultations with growers occurred regularly via phone, email and through direct farm visits. Multiple workshops and presentations at grower meetings were conducted during this period. The included monthly evening meetings focused on phenology and pest management from April to July to help growers identify the appropriate growth stage to apply protective measures. We are also developing farm level, applied research on pest/disease management, varietal selection and management and season extension for NYS berry growers. Cooperation with Cornell faculty research programs and NY growers will ensure the latest information is disseminated into the industry. In summer 2025, visits to support strawberry growers in Bronx, NYC were continued. A demonstration planting was installed in Karol’s Garden in Castle Hill (Che’Von Cooper). Additionally, additional growers were recruited for participation in upcoming trials. In Syracuse, collaboration with 4 community-facing gardens in Syracuse with support of CCE Onondaga was initiated including the Midland Ave Community Garden, the Van Keuren Square garden, Hillbrook Juvenile Detention Center garden, Dr. King Elementary school garden. And finally, a project on anaerobic Soil Disinfestation in Strawberry was participated in funded by NESARE. Identifying strategies to increase grower profitability (directed by Dr. Miguel Gomez). Understanding price, demand, competition, and cost factors is critical for growers to make production and marketing decisions. This data was collected from consumers and growers and analyzed to identify feasible strategies that increase grower profits. The assessment was begun by analyzing the returns and costs for field production of berries versus protected production, including production in high tunnels and in greenhouses. Activities include reviewing berry production budgets and grower sales prices, interviewing growers to update budgets, analyzing the costs and returns for each method of production and developing an interactive crop budget spreadsheet for NYS berry growers.
• Oregon State University – Translate lab-validated A&K guidance into extension factsheets. Develop field-validation trials with multistate collaborators. Host webinars/field days to demonstrate SWD bait placement, coverage strategies and integration with rotation schedules. Raspberry cultivars for the Pacific Northwest (PNW 655). Davis, A.J., S.B. Lukas, L.W. DeVetter, W. Hoashi-Erhardt, and P. Jones. The current small fruit researchers in Oregon and Washington are collaborating to update this guide to include recently released cultivars, remove any content that is no longer relevant, and to provide a more comprehensive photo index of commercially grown cultivars. Nutrient management of raspberries and blackberries in Oregon and Washington (PNW 780). Davis, A., S. Lukas, B. Strik, A. Moore, L. Wasko DeVetter, D. Bryla, and E. Dixon. Our team from Oregon and Washington collaborated to complete a major revision of the existing “Caneberries: nutrient management guide”, which was written in 2006, and needed updating to improve ease of use and to include relevant information for growers who are using different management and fertilization techniques than they were nearly 20 years ago.
• North Carolina State University -Strawberry: Hoffmann Program: Development of multi-state training on challenges and opportunities strawberry propagation; Multi-state development of indoor propagation guidelines (pdf format); Lopez Program: Development of a strawberry, blueberry, and blackberry pest management educational video series with collaborators from the University of Arkansas. Additionally, in-service training and workshops will be part of the education activities related to the pest management video series. These events will be held both in the eastern and western parts of the state during fall 2025 and spring 2026. Some of these efforts will be dedicated to educating stakeholders on the proper use of biological control as part of their IPM programs and thrips identification.
• University of Arkansas ACPC provides comprehensive virus and systemic pathogen diagnostics for Fragaria, Rubus, Vaccinium, Ribes, and Sambucus, covering ~115 pathogens using PCR, qPCR, and ELISA. Public and university breeders can request accession clean-up. Upon official APHIS funding confirmation (expected January 2026), collaborators will be informed of the number of accessions that can be accepted.

British Columbia Blueberry and raspberry integrated 

• pest management (IPM) newsletters published. Field days organized.

Publications = 81

University of Arkansas

Johns, C.A., Silva, A., Chizk, T.M., Nelson, L., Clark, J.R., Aryal, R., Ashrafi, H., Thompson, E., Hardigan, M. and Worthington, M.L., 2025. Genetic control of prickles in tetraploid blackberry. G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics, 15(6), p.jkaf065.

Godwin, C., Chizk, T.M., Johns, C., Nelson, L., Threlfall, R., Clark, J.R. and Worthington, M.L., 2025. Genetic control of sweetness and acidity in blackberry. Frontiers in Plant Science, 16, p.1569492.

Cifuentes R., Brito M.L., Cornejo-Franco J.F., Alvarez-Quinto R.A., Mollov D., Martínez A., Ochoa J., Villamor D.E., Tzanetakis I.E., Quito-Avila D.F. 2025. Insights into the virome of the Andean blackberry (Rubus glaucus). Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 173:197–208. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10658-025-03058-5

Hajizadeh M., Ghaderi Zandan N., Koloniuk I., Sierra-Mejia A., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Characterization, detection, and prevalence of a novel strawberry crinivirus. Plant Dis. 109:988–991.

Singh S., Villamor D.V.V., Sharma Poudyal D., Sierra-Mejia A., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. A systems-based approach to ensure berry crops health status: from the breeder to the field. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 172:55–73. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10658-024-02985-z

Tzanetakis I.E., Aknadibossian V., Špak J., Constable F., Harper S.J., Hammond J., Candresse T., Folimonova S.Y., Freitas-Astúa J., Fuchs M., Jelkmann W., Maliogka V.I., Marais A., Martin R.R., Mollov D., Vidalakis G. and another 170 authors. 2025. Streamlining global germplasm exchange: Integrating scientific rigor and common sense to exclude phantom agents from regulation. Plant Dis. 109:736–755. https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-04-24-0745-FE

Druciarek T., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Invisible vectors, visible impact: The role of eriophyoid mites in emaravirus disease dynamics. Virology 606:110478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virol.2025.110478

Sierra-Mejia A., Hajizadeh M., Atanda H.Y., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Overcoming the woody barrier: Dodder enables efficient transfer of infectious clones to woody plants. J. Virol. Methods 334:115114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jviromet.2025.115114

Sierra-Mejia A., Villamor D.V.V., Rocha A., Wintermantel W.M., Tzanetakis I.E. 2024. Engineering a robust infectious clone and gene silencing vector from blackberry yellow vein associated virus. Virus Res. 350:199488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199488

Sierra-Mejia A., Villamor D.V.V., Tzanetakis I.E. 2024. Development and application of an infectious clone and gene silencing vector derived from blackberry chlorotic ringspot virus. Virus Res. 350:199460. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199460

British Columbia Berry

Baldassi C, Lee C, Dossett M, Castellarin SD. 2024. High-throughput color determination of red raspberry puree and correlation of color parameters with total anthocyanins. Plant Methods. 20:78.https://doi.org/10.1186/s13007-024-01197-0

Hoashi-Erhardt W, Moore PP, Hardigan MA, Peterson M, Lukas S, Jones P, Dossett M. 2025. ‘WSU 2188’(Cascade Legacy™) Red Raspberry. HortScience. 60(6):899–903.

https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18510-25

University of Georgia

Godara A, Rubio Ames Z, Deltsidis A. 2025. Delayed Harvest Reduces Postharvest Quality and Storability of Southern Highbush cv. ‘Meadowlark’ and Rabbiteye Blueberry cv. ‘Brightwell.’ HortScience, 60:182-190.

Espinoza N, Lessl J, Rubio Ames Z. 2025. High Soil Potassium Levels Do Not Increase Leaf Potassium Concentration in Rabbiteye or Southern Highbush Blueberry. HortScience, 60:152-161.

Godara A, Rubio Ames Z, Deltsidis A. 2025. Photoselective Devices Increased Productivity of Southern Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum Interspecific Hybrids). HortScience, 60:182-190.

Godara A, Rubio Ames Z, and Deltsidis A. Impact of Shorter Picking Intervals on the Storability and Postharvest Quality of Rabbiteye Blueberries cv.'Brightwell'. Frontiers in Plant Science,16, 1683940.

Michigan State University

Alan E Yocca, Adrian Platts, Elizabeth Alger, Scott Teresi, Molla F Mengist, Juliana  Benevenuto, Luis Felipe V Ferrão, MacKenzie Jacobs, Michal Babinski, Maria Magallanes Lundback, Philipp Bayer, Agnieszka Golicz, Jodi L Humann, Dorrie Main, Richard V Espley,  David Chagné, Nick W Albert, Sara Montanari, Nicholi Vorsa, James Polashock, Luis Díaz Garcia, Juan Zalapa, Nahla V Bassil, Patricio R Munoz, Massimo Iorizzo, Patrick P Edger,  Blueberry and cranberry pangenomes as a resource for future genetic studies and breeding  efforts, Horticulture Research, Volume 10, Issue 11, November 2023, uhad202,  https://doi.org/10.1093/hr/uhad202

MacKenzie Jacobs, Samantha Thompson, Adrian E Platts, Melanie J A Body, Alexys Kelsey,  Amanda Saad, Patrick Abeli, Scott J Teresi, Anthony Schilmiller, Randolph Beaudry, Mitchell J  Feldmann, Steven J Knapp, Guo-qing Song, Timothy Miles, Patrick P Edger, Uncovering  genetic and metabolite markers associated with resistance against anthracnose fruit rot in  northern highbush blueberry, Horticulture Research, Volume 10, Issue 10, October 2023,  uhad169, https://doi.org/10.1093/hr/uhad169

Nick W Albert, Massimo Iorizzo, Molla F Mengist, Sara Montanari, Juan Zalapa, Andrew Maule,  Patrick P Edger, Alan E Yocca, Adrian E Platts, Boas Pucker, Richard V Espley, Vaccinium as a  comparative system for understanding of complex flavonoid accumulation profiles and  regulation in fruit, Plant Physiology, Volume 192, Issue 3, July 2023, Pages 1696–1710,  https://doi.org/10.1093/plphys/kiad250

Mengist, M.F., Bostan, H., De Paola, D., Teresi, S.J., Platts, A.E., Cremona, G., Qi, X., Mackey,  T., Bassil, N.V., Ashrafi, H., Giongo, L., Jibran, R., Chagné, D., Bianco, L., Lila, M.A., Rowland,  L.J., Iovene, M., Edger, P.P. and Iorizzo, M. (2023), Autopolyploid inheritance and a  heterozygous reciprocal translocation shape chromosome genetic behavior in tetraploid  blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). New Phytol, 237: 1024- 1039. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.18428

Clare Shaun J., Driskill Mandie , Millar Timothy R. , Chagné David , Montanari Sara , Thomson  Susan, Espley Richard V. , Muñoz Patricio , Benevenuto Juliana , Zhao Dongyan , Sheehan  Moira J. , Mengist Molla F. , Rowland Lisa J. , Ashrafi Hamid , Melmaiee Kalpalatha , Kulkarni  Krishnanand P. , Babiker Ebrahiem , Main Dorrie , Olmstead James W. , Gilbert Jessica L. ,  Havlak Paul , Hung Hsiaoyi , Kniskern Joel , Percival David , Edger Patrick , Iorizzo Massimo ,  Bassil Nahla V. 2023. Development of a targeted genotyping platform for reproducible results  within tetraploid and hexaploid blueberry. Frontiers in Horticulture.  DOI=10.3389/fhort.2023.1339310

Hislop, L. M., Luby, C. H., Loarca, J., Humann, J., Hummer, K. E., Bassil, N., Zhao, D.,  Sheehan, M. J., Casa, A. M., Billings, G. T., Echeverria, D. M., Ashrafi, H., Babiker, E., Edger,  P., Ehlenfeldt, M. K., Hancock, J., Finn, C., Iorizzo, M., Mackey, T.,... Hulse-Kemp, A. M. (2024).  A Blueberry (Vaccinium L.) Crop Ontology to Enable Standardized Phenotyping for Blueberry  Breeding and Research. , (10), 1433–

Scott J Teresi, Mélanie J A Body, Alder Fulton, Adrian E Platts, Marivi Colle, Philip D Fanning,  Jacquelyn A Perkins, Rodrigo R Amadeu, Juliana Benevenuto, Patricio Munoz, Jack C Schultz,  Rufus Isaacs, Patrick P Edger, Deciphering the underlying genetics of galling resistance to the  blueberry stem gall wasp in northern highbush blueberry, Horticulture Research, 2025;,  uhaf197, https://doi.org/10.1093/hr/uhaf197

Chen S, Lin M, Taniguti CH, Tang X, de la Torre F, Sideli GM, Iorizzo M, Edger PP, Neyhart J,  Zalapa J, Bassil N, Heller-Uszynska K, Zhao D, Beil CT, Sheehan MJ. A public mid-density  genotyping platform for cultivated cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton). Plant Genome.  2025 Dec;18(4):e70118. doi: 10.1002/tpg2.70118. PMID: 41058566; PMCID: PMC12505202.

Bishop, G., Smith, H.G., Mandelik, Y., Holzschuh, A., Gonzalez-Andujar, J.L., Stojnic, S.M., Foster, B.L., Isaacs, R., Stanley, D.A., Sutter, L., Fijen, T. et al. (2025) Critical habitat thresholds for effective pollinator conservation in agricultural landscapes. Science https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adr2146 

Teresi, SJ., Body, M.J.A., Fulton, A., Platts, A.E., Colle, M., Graham, P., Fanning, P.D., Pointon, H., Perkins, J.A., Amadeu, RR., Benevenuto, J., Munoz, P., Kelsey, A., Callow, P., Isaacs, and Edger, P. (2025) Deciphering the underlying genetics of galling resistance to the blueberry stem gall wasp in northern highbush blueberry. Horticultural Research. https://doi.org/10.1093/hr/uhaf197

Rossi-Stacconi, M.V., Abram, P.K., Anfora, G., Beers, E., Biondi, A., Borowiec, N., Carrillo, J., Collatz, J., Colmagro, A., Johnson, B.C., Daane, K., Dal Zotto, G., Döbeli, H., Fanning, P., Fellin, L., Gariepy, T., Giorgini, M., Grassi, A., Guerrieri, E., Herz, A., Isaacs, R., Lee, J., Lisi, F., Loeb, G.M., Lupi, D., Martin, J., Masetti, A., Moffat, C., Mori, N., Park, K.R., Prade, P., Puppato, S., Rodriguez-Saona, C., Schmidt, S., Seehausen, L., Sial, A.A., Tavella, L., Tortorici, F., Urbaneja-Bernat, P., Van Timmeren, S., Walton, V.M., Wang, G., Wang, X. (2025) Adventively established Leptopilina japonica: a new opportunity for augmentative biocontrol of Drosophila suzukii. Journal of Pest Science, 1-17. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10340-025-01907-0

Graham, K.K., Sanchez, A.B., McArt, S., and Isaacs, R. (2025) Pesticide drift into field margins threatens bee pollinators and other beneficial insects. Environmental Entomology. https://doi/10.1093/ee/nvaf051/8161150

Eeraerts, M., C. Kogan, R. Isaacs, P. Batáry, B.R. Blaauw, K. Bobiwash, J.W. Campbell, P. Cavigliasso, J.C. Daniels, J.D. Ellis, J. Gibbs, L. Goldstein, R.E. Mallinger, A. Melathopoulos, S.Z. Miller, A. Montero-Castanõ, S.M. Naranjo, C.C. Nicholson, J.A. Perkins, N.E. Raine, T.H. Ricketts, E. Rogers, J.J. Ternest, K. Verheyen, and L.W. DeVetter. 2025. Wild bees mediate fruit quality via seed set in highbush blueberry: A quantitative synthesis. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment. 394: 109872 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agee.2025.109872

Levenson, H., Van Timmeren, Walton, V., Isaacs, R. (2025) Crop edge sampling and early life stage detection for improved monitoring of spotted-wing drosophila, Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae), in berry crops. Journal of Economic Entomology. https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toaf122

Walters, J., Fisher, R., Sharkey, T.D., Isaacs, R., and Santiago, J.P. (2025) Extreme heat affects blueberry pollen nutrition: consequences for bee health and plant reproduction. Scientific Reports 15, 6249. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-90676-y

Van Timmeren, S., Brubaker Salcedo, M., Perkins, J., and Isaacs, R. (2025) Seasonal phenology and host plant use by Leptopilina japonica attacking Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in Michigan, determined using a modified collection method. Journal of Economic Entomology. https://doi/10.1093/jee/toaf053/8114575

Aly, M.F.K., Burrack, H.J.B., and Isaacs, R. (2025) Developing an artificial diet for rearing Ganaspis brasiliensis (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) on spotted-wing drosophila. Annals of the Entomological Society of America 118, 88-99. https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/saae039

Huang, J., Isaacs, R., and Wilson, JK. (2025) Reliable mass production of Ganaspis kimorum (Hymenoptera: Figitidae), a larval parasitoid of Drosophila suzukii (Diptera: Drosophilidae). Journal of Insect Science 25, 5. https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieaf024

Brouwer, K., Eeraerts, M., Rogers, E., Goldstein, L., Perkins, J., Milbrath, M., Melathopoulos, A., Meyer, J., Kogan, C., Isaacs, R., and DeVetter, L. (2025). Strategic honey bee hive placement improves honey bee visitation but not pollination in northern highbush blueberry. Journal of Economic Entomology, toae267. https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae267

Tucker S, Gurjeet S, Nawab A, Najme A, VanderWeide J, Sears M, Dong Y. 2025. Optimizing  Soil Moisture Sensor Placement Through Spatial Variability Analysis in Orchards. Smart  Agricultural Technology.

Dick D, VanderWeide J*. 2025. A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review of Plant Growth  Regulator Use in Blueberry Production. Frontiers in Plant Science. 10.3389/fpls.2025.1632855

Gasdick M, Dick D, Mayhew E, Lobos G, Moggia C, VanderWeide J*. 2025. First they’re sour,  then they’re sweet: Exploring the uniformity of blueberry quality at harvest and implications for  consumer liking. Postharvest Biology and Technology. DOI: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2025.113765  

Palai G, VanderWeide J, Pico J, Castellarin SD, D’Onofrio C. 2025. Water deficit modulates berry terpenes accumulation via jasmonates signaling in Vitis vinifera L. (cv. Sangiovese).  Environmental and Experimental Botany. DIO: 10.1016/j.envexpbot.2025.106171

Boyang D, Lu Y, VanderWeide J. 2025. Development and Preliminary Evaluation of a YOLO based Fruit Counting and Maturity Evaluation Mobile Application for Blueberries. Applied Engineering in Agriculture. DOI: 10.13031/aea.16247

VanderWeide J, Pico JC, Petersen M, Castellarin SD. 2025. Terpene biosynthesis and  accumulation in Riesling (Vitis vinifera L.) is “uncoupled” from berry technological maturity and predominately regulated by solar radiation. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry. DOI:  10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.109212

Neugebauer K, Mattupalli C, Hu M, Oliver JE, VanderWeide J, Lu Y, Sullivan K, Stockwell VO, Oudemans P, and Miles TD. 2024. Managing Fruit Rot Diseases of Vaccinium corymbosum.  Frontiers in Plant Science. DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1428769

 VanderWeide J*, Nasrollahiazar E, Schultze S, Sabbatini P, Castellarin C. 2024. Impact of cluster thinning on wine grape yield and fruit composition: A review and meta-analysis.  Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research. DOI: 10.1155/2024/2504396

North Carolina State University

Cifuentes R., Brito M.L., Cornejo-Franco J.F., Alvarez-Quinto R.A., Mollov D., Martínez A., Ochoa J., Villamor D.E., Tzanetakis I.E., Quito-Avila D.F. 2025. Insights into the virome of the Andean blackberry (Rubus glaucus). Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 173:197–208. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10658-025-03058-5

Hajizadeh M., Ghaderi Zandan N., Koloniuk I., Sierra-Mejia A., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Characterization, detection, and prevalence of a novel strawberry crinivirus. Plant Dis. 109:988–991.

Singh S., Villamor D.V.V., Sharma Poudyal D., Sierra-Mejia A., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. A systems-based approach to ensure berry crops health status: from the breeder to the field. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 172:55–73. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10658-024-02985-z

Tzanetakis I.E., Aknadibossian V., Špak J., Constable F., Harper S.J., Hammond J., Candresse T., Folimonova S.Y., Freitas-Astúa J., Fuchs M., Jelkmann W., Maliogka V.I., Marais A., Martin R.R., Mollov D., Vidalakis G. and another 170 authors. 2025. Streamlining global germplasm exchange: Integrating scientific rigor and common sense to exclude phantom agents from regulation. Plant Dis. 109:736–755. https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-04-24-0745-FE

Druciarek T., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Invisible vectors, visible impact: The role of eriophyoid mites in emaravirus disease dynamics. Virology 606:110478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virol.2025.110478

Sierra-Mejia A., Hajizadeh M., Atanda H.Y., Tzanetakis I.E. 2025. Overcoming the woody barrier: Dodder enables efficient transfer of infectious clones to woody plants. J. Virol. Methods 334:115114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jviromet.2025.115114

Sierra-Mejia A., Villamor D.V.V., Rocha A., Wintermantel W.M., Tzanetakis I.E. 2024. Engineering a robust infectious clone and gene silencing vector from blackberry yellow vein associated virus. Virus Res. 350:199488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199488

Sierra-Mejia A., Villamor D.V.V., Tzanetakis I.E. 2024. Development and application of an infectious clone and gene silencing vector derived from blackberry chlorotic ringspot virus. Virus Res. 350:199460. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199460

North Dakota State University

Dai, W., Zhang, Q. In vitro mutation induction of raspberry species (Rubus) using gamma ray irradiation. In Vitro Cell.Dev.Biol.-Plant 61, 140–146 (2025). https://doi-org.ezproxy.lib.ndsu.nodak.edu/10.1007/s11627-024-10484-3.

Daler, S.; Kilic, T.; Hatterman-Valenti, H.; Kaya, O. (2025). Graft compatibility of local grapevine varieties with grapevine rootstocks in Yozgat Province. Horticulturae, 11:7, 803. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070803.

Daler, S.; Kaya, O.; Kilic, T.; Hajizadeh, H.S.; Bay, H.; Ates, F.; Yilmaz, T.; Hatterman-Valenti, H. (2025). Exogenous putrescine enhances lime stress tolerance in grapevine rootstock-scion combinations. BMC Plant Biology, 25:1, 854. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12870-025-06873-4.

Daler, S.; Kaya, O.; Canturk, S.; Korkmaz, N.; Kilic, T.; Karadag, A.; Hatterman-Valenti, H. (2025) Silicon nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) boost drought tolerance in grapevines by enhancing some morphological, physiological, and biochemical traits. Plant Molecular Biology Reporter, 43:3, pp. 1057-1075. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11105-024-01520-y.

Kaya, O.; Karakus, S.; Ates, F.; Daler, S.; Hatterman-Valenti, H. (2025). Enhancing ‘Royal’ grape quality through a three-year investigation of soil management practices and organic amendments on berry biochemistry. Chemical and Biological Technologies in Agriculture, 12:1, 17. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40538-025-00733-x.

Kaya, O.; Karakus, S.; Bozkurt, A.; Canturk, S.; Yilmaz, T.; Hatterman-Valenti, H. (2025). Essential oil compounds and their impact on grape (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Narince) physiology under Botrytis cinerea infection. Physiological And Molecular Plant Pathology, 136, 102544. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmpp.2024.102544.

Kesen, O.; Yagci, A.; Hatterman-Valenti, H.; Kaya, O. (2025). Enhancing grape seed germination and seedling development through varietal responses to sodium nitroprusside and gibberellic acid applications. Horticulturae, 11:7, 754. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070754.

Keskin, N.; Karakus, S.; Hatterman-Valenti, H.; Kaya, O.; Cavusoglu, S.; Tekin, O.; Kunter, B.; Keskin, S.; Kaya, A.C.; Karadogan, B. (2025) Modulation of biochemical traits in cold-stored 'Karaerik' grapes by different edible coatings. Horticulturae, 11:6, 672. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060672.

Tarim, G.; Karakus, S.; Keskin, N.; Hatterman-Valenti, H.; Kaya, O. (2025). Timing matters, not just the treatment: phenological-stage-specific effects of seaweed and ethanol applications on postharvest quality of 'Tarsus Beyazı' grapes. Horticulturae, 11:6, 656. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060656.

Wang, Z.; Svyantek, A.; Kadium, V.R.; Bogenrief, S.; Hatterman-Valenti, H. (2025). Different yeast strain effects on 'King of the North' wine chemical, chromatic, and descriptive sensory characteristics. Fermentation-Basel, 11:5, 262. https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11050262.

Zengin, R.; Ugur, Y.; Erdogan, S.; Yavuz, C.; Hatterman-Valenti, H.; Kaya, O. (2025). Phytochemical and antioxidant variability in some black mulberry, chokeberry, and elderberry cultivars in relation to cultivar, plant part, and extraction solvent. Horticulturae, 11:5, 455. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11050455.

Freedman, K., Collado, C., Hernández, R. and Hoffmann, M. 2025. Precise Indoor Vine

Conditioning: A proof of concept to improve bud development of young, containerized

grapevines. American Journal of Enology and Viticulture (AJEV) (in review).

Volk, E., Fox, G., Fennimore, S., Neal, J. and Hoffmann, M. 2025. Impact of soil-applied steam in combination with exothermic chemicals on weed and pathogen survival. HortScience (accepted).

Knuth, M., Trhelfal, R., Worthington, M., Fleming, A., Perkins-Veazie, P ., Yang, W. and Hoffmann, M. 2025. US Consumer’s Willingness to Pay for Fresh-market Grape Attributes. HortScience (accepted).

Johnson, J., and Hoffmann, M. 2024. Evaluation of Yield, Fruit Chemistry, and Firmness of Seven Strawberry (Fragaria xananassa) Cultivars in an Eastern North Carolina Greenhouse. HortScience 59(11), 1634-1643.

Lay-Walters, A., Heagy, K., Woodley, A. and Hoffmann, M. 2024. Impact of pre-plant fertilizer

rates in combination with Polysulphate® on soil nitrogen distribution and yield of short-day

strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa cv. Camarosa). Agronomy 14(4), 774. DOI:

10.3390/agronomy14040774.

Mengist F.M., M. A. Abid, M.H. Grace, R. Seth, N. Bassil, C. D Kay, A.P . Dare, D. Chagné, R.V.Espley, A. Neilson, M.A. Lila, M. Ferruzzi and M. Iorizzo. 2025. Identification and functional

characterization of BAHD acyltransferases associated with anthocyanin acylation in blueberry. Horticulture Research, Volume 12, Issue 5, May 2025, uhaf041.

Heeduk O., M.F. Mengist, G. Maa, L. Giongo, M. Pottorff, J.A. Spencer, P . Perkins-Veaziea, M.

Iorizzo. 2025. Unraveling the genetic architecture of blueberry fruit quality traits: major loci

control organic acid content while more complex genetic mechanisms control texture and sugar

content. BMC Plant Biology, 25, 36 (2025)

Dare P .A., C. Wu, J.I. Carvajal, H.M. Nguyen, C.S. Günther, C. Hamiaux, S. Bailey, C. Deng, M.F. Mengist, M. Iorizzo, T.M. Foster, D. Chagné, S. Montanari, R.V. Espley. 2024. Haplotyped genome mapping and functional characterisation of a blueberry anthocyanin acetyltransferase (AAT) controlling the accumulation of acylated anthocyanins. Journal of Experimental Botany, 2024;,erae489.

Lay-Walters, A., Samtani, J., Fernandez, G., Havlin, J., Coneva, E., Stafne, E., Bumgarner, N.,

Lockwood, D., Rubio Ames, Z., Blaedow, K., & McWhirt, A. 2025. Survey of Seasonal Variation of Leaf Tissue Nutrient Concentration of Southeastern Blackberry. HortScience, 60(11), 1928–1937. https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI18867-25

Haynes, B. Fernandez, G., Ma, G., Perkins-Veazie P . 2025. Anthocyanin Content and Profiles of Strawberry Fruit from North Carolina Genotypes. Journal of the American Pomological Society,79(1), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.71318/r4s8ab07

Haynes, B., Fernandez, G., Ma, G., Chen, H., & Perkins-Veazie, P. (2025). Strawberry Germplasm Influences Fruit Physicochemical Composition More than Harvest Date or Location.

Horticulturae, 11(1), 55. https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11010055

Kelso, F., Da, K., Dewey, R. E., Reiland, D. S., Almeyda, C., Liu, W., & Ashrafi, H. (2025).

Optimization of Adventitious Shoot Regeneration Protocols for Six Vaccinium corymbosum

Cultivars. HortScience, 60(7), 1109-1117.

Zhang, J., Maleski, J., Ashrafi, H., Spencer, J. A., & Chu, Y. (2024). Open-source high-throughput phenotyping for blueberry yield and maturity prediction across environments: Neural network model and labeled dataset for breeders. Horticulturae, 10(12), 1332.

Oregon State University

Singh, S., S. Lukas, A. Retano, and D. Bryla. 2025. Evaluating locally available organic4

amendments to enhance soil health indicators for highbush blueberry production east of the

Cascades in the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Springer Nature, 15:20933.

Davis, A.J., S.B. Lukas, and B.C. Strik. 2025. Labor costs and yield recovery after

renovation and cane thinning in ‘Mini Blues’ highbush blueberry. HortTechnology 35(6).

DOI: 10.21273/HORTTECH05745-25

Dai, Y., R. Holland, S, Doane, W.Q. Yang, F. Takeda, and J. Chen. 2025. A survey on the

cleaning and sanitization practices for blueberry harvest containers and mechanical

harvesters in the U.S. Journal of Ag. And Food Research 24.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafr.2025.102353

Davis, A.J., S.B. Lukas, B.C. Strik, S.T. Orr, and D.R. Bryla. 2025. Plant growth, yield,

machine-harvest efficiency, fruit quality, and labor costs in ‘Columbia Star’ trailing

blackberry: risks and advantages of closer in-row spacing, primocane suppression, and “new-

over-old” primocane training. HortScience (in press).

Delelee LM, Woodill AJ, Skinkis PA. 2025. Climate Change Projections Indicate Shifts

in Phenology for Willamette Valley Pinot noir. Am J Enol Vitic 76:0760003. DOI:

10.5344/ajev.2024.24033.

Osterman KM and Skinkis PA. 2025. Long-term Citizen Science Project Led to Pinot

noir Yield Management Changes. Am J Enol Vitic 76:0760015. DOI:

10.5344/ajev.2025.24072.

Skinkis, P. 2025. Old School Vineyard Nutrient Monitoring Meets Modern Precision

Ag. Practical Winery & Vineyard Journal. July 2025: 40-43.

https://www.winebusiness.com/wbm/article/304442

Skinkis PA. 2025. HiRes Vineyard Nutrition Podcast. Oregon State University

Extension https://extension.oregonstate.edu/podcast/hires-vineyard-nutrition-podcast

Skinkis PA and Shcherbatyuk N. 2025. High Resolution vineyard Nutrient Management

Website https://highresvineyardnutrition.com/

Skinkis PA. 2024. Rootstock Research: Impacts on Growth, Drought Tolerance and

Nutrition. Wilbur Ellis Wine Grape Meeting, Salem, OR. December 4, 2024.

Utah State University

Schaeffer, R.N., Z. Smutko, H. Vaughan, E.C. Burgess, M.M. Grilley, M. Kindred, S. Jadhav, M. Borghi, K.R.

Curtis, B.L. Black and J.R. Reeve. Aureobasidium pullulans-mediated protection against grey mold is cultivar-dependent in strawberry. BioControl. In preparation

Spencer, S., B. Black, K. Kowallis, L. Yardley. Propagation of Blue Elderberry (Sambucus cerulea). American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA. 1 August, 2025.

1. Black. Blue Elderberry Research in Utah. 2nd International Elderberry Symposium, Columbia, MO. 18-19 June, 2025

Sarah Caballero, Alexander, Levin, Joseph, DeShields, Darrell Carrato, Yanyun Zhao,

Jooyeoun Jung, Pre-harvest cellulose–chitosan spray for mitigating smoke impact in

wine grapes: blocking m-cresol, validation in model table grapes, and vineyard field

evaluation, Journal of Food Science, 2025, accepted.

Fryer, J. A., de Matos, A. D., Hort, J., & Tomasino, E. 2025. Consumer responses to

smoke-impacted pinot noir wine and the influence of label concepts on perception. Food

Research International, 203, 115881. SCRI support was acknowledged

Fryer, J.A. Tomasino, E. 2025. Understanding the sensory influences of oak in the

production of smoke-affected wines: A case study with Cabernet Sauvignon. Beverages.

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Profile of Wildfire-Affected Cabernet Sauvignon. Journal of Wine Research, 1-18. SCRI

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Fryer, J.A., Sartori, C., Thrall, J., and Tomasino, E. 2025. Understanding the ashy flavor

recognition thresholds in Pinot noir wines. 59: (3). OenoOne.

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monthly newsletter for the Oregon Wine Research Institute, Oregon State University,

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guide for wine grapes in Oregon. Oregon State University Extension Publishing. EM 8413.

Skinkis. P., V. Walton, and B. Edmunds. 2025. “Grape Pests” In Pacific Northwest insect pest

management handbook. Pacific Northwest Extension Publishing.

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Montana State University

Wang Z, Svyantek A, Miller Z. Effect of blue and red light-emitting diodes on haskap (Lonicera caerulea L.) postharvest storage. Agricultural Products Processing and Storage. 2025 Dec;1(1):1-2. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44462-025-00006-8

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Rutgers University

Clare, S.J., Zheng, P., Driskill, M., Kawash, J., Neyhart, J., Millar, T.R., Main, D., Polashock, J., Edger, P., Vorsa, N., Johnson-Cicalese, J., Zalapa, J., Sideli, G.M., Iorizzo, M., Bassil, N. (accepted). A high-recovery, high-density targeted genotyping platform for cranberry. The Plant Genome.

Shufen C., Meng L., Taniguti, C.H., Tang, X., de la Torre, F., Sideli, G.M., Iorizzo, M., Edger, P.P., Neyhart, J., Zalapa, J., Bassil, N., Heller-Uszynska, K., Zhao, D., Beil, C.T., Sheehan, M.J. (2025). A Public Mid-Density Genotyping Platform For Cultivated Cranberry. The Plant Genome.

Jiménez, N. P., Fong, S., Neyhart, J. L., Johnson‐Cicalese, J., Vorsa, N., & Sideli, G. M. (2025). Leveraging genetic resources and genomic prediction to enhance flavonol content in cranberry fruit. The Plant Genome, 18(3), e70074.

Neyhart, J.L., Wakholi, C., Rippner, D.A., Price, J.H., Altendorf, K.A., Heineck, G.C., Zalapa, J. Loarca, J., Sideli, G.M. (submitted September 2025). BerryBox: An affordable computer vision system for postharvest phenotyping of cranberry and other small fruits. The Plant Phenome.

Oudemans, P.V., Kaur, J., Wells-Hansen, L.D., Neyhart, J.L. Holland, L.A., Haines, J.M., Polashock, J.J., Rodriguez Saona, C., Besancon, T.E., Sideli, G.M. (in review).

Integrating Past Lessons into Improved Management of Cranberry False Blossom Disease. Plant Diseases.

Jiménez, N., Torres-Meraz, M.A., Neyhart, J., Zalapa, J., Sideli, G.M. (in review). Demographic and genome-wide analyses reveal genetic divergence between upper Midwestern and Eastern North American wild cranberry populations. Horticulture Research.