Background

Canada’s berry sector is exploring innovative ways to improve productivity, sustainability, and domestic supply. Traditional field-grown raspberry systems typically produce fruit within a short seasonal window and are vulnerable to weather variability and soil-borne diseases.
To address these challenges, long-cane raspberry production under semi-protected environments is emerging as a promising approach.

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In this system, raspberries are grown in substrate-filled pots under outdoor protective structures, allowing for improved control over growing conditions while maintaining a natural growing environment. This approach reduces soil-related diseases, improves crop consistency, and protects fruit from adverse weather.
Led by Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and funded through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s AgriScience Program, this multi-year initiative is focused on advancing berry production systems across Canada. The work includes collaborations with growers, propagators, and industry partners to evaluate production systems, substrates, and varieties for yield and quality.

Goal

To develop innovative, sustainable berry production systems that extend the growing season and strengthen Canada’s domestic food supply.

Objectives

  • Evaluate long-cane raspberry and blueberry production systems under semi-protected environments for yield, quality, and season extension.
  • Assess sustainable growing substrates to reduce reliance on materials such as coco coir and peat.
  • Develop irrigation management approaches tailored to different growing media.
  • Compare potted and field production systems across plant growth, nutrient levels, pest management requirements, and environmental impacts.
  • Explore off-season blueberry production, including the use of energy-generating solar greenhouse films.

What’s Next?

The project is currently progressing through multi-year trials, building on early findings that showed wood fibre blends produced yields comparable to coco coir. Ongoing research is evaluating additional substrates, including recycled stone wool, and their performance in berry production systems.
Further research will continue to assess plant growth, substrate performance, and irrigation requirements, while supporting the development of tools and information for growers.
An interactive demonstration event is planned for Summer 2027, where production systems and research findings will be shared with stakeholders.

Content

Look out for updates throughout the Summer, 2026.

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