Pests and diseases can significantly reduce currant and gooseberry yield. Mapping of the threats will guide future research efforts.
A network of researchers and advisors in the seven Nordic and Baltic countries are creating a summary of the present pest, disease and mitigation situation to guide future research efforts in currants and gooseberries (Ribes spp.) production.
– There are many reasons to try to maintain the cultivation of Ribes berries in all countries where it is possible. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and there are not many crops with these properties that can be cultivated so far north. Therefore, it is also important for preparedness reasons to maintain the area and expertise. It is also important to try to promote cultivation with as little environmental impact (chemical pesticides) as possible, and in this regard, many growers in our countries are at the forefront, says Olle Anderbrant, coordinator of the researcher network “Developing Integrated Pest Management in Nordic currant production“.
The researchers have collected up to date information about the most urgent needs for research when it comes to plant protection. An inventory of major pests and diseases in each country has been made based on published and previously unpublished information. These data form the background for a summary of the situation within the region as a whole and will point out research fields to prioritize in the future.
They have also taken previous and expected climatic changes into account and looked into possible changes of pest control regulations.
Collaboration between countries with similar environment and pests and diseases enables sharing ideas, resources and finally production of successful research proposals focusing on berry crops that have received less attention compared to strawberry and raspberry. By collaboration between countries, it should be easier to produce successful research proposals.
In the northern agricultural EU region, i.e., the Nordic and Baltic countries, currant and gooseberry production has a long tradition. Due to various economic and regulatory conditions these berries are nowadays mainly produced in the countries east of the Baltic Sea.
The network will continue exchanging information to the benefit of berry production and crop improvement in northern Europe. The project members have participated in various scientific and outreach meetings and presented the network and its ambitions.