Revolution in blueberry growing will affect the market and whole supply chain

First genetics for blueberries were High chill varieties, growing in the North of America. These varieties needed +/- 1000 hours cold below 7°C, they were invented more than hundred years ago. 30 years ago low chill varieties appeared. Low chill grow now in Spain, Morocco. A blueberry genetics and nursery company at Fruit Attraction has introduced ZERO chill genetics available as open variety and accessible for all growers.

“New generation of genetics called “0 cold”, which means they do not need cold at all”, - explains Hans Liekens Commercial Manager EMEnA, Fall Creek. ZERO Chill genetics include large early AtlasBlue™ ‘FCM12-045’, medium-large BiancaBlue™ ‘FCM12-087’ and JupiterBlue™ ‘FCM12-131’ (mid-early and very early ripening respectively). Hans explains that these new genetics can grow in low chill areas, but also in 0-chill areas, like countries around equator, in Sahara, whenever there is water available. “New varieties will never sleep, that is why we call them evergreens”, - he adds.

This will cause revolution as now blueberries can be grown in countries where a year ago it was not possible. “Big advantage is grower can decide when he wants to have fruits, for example when price on the market is higher on blueberries. In the long term new genetics will create opportunity for Southern Europe and Africa, and even China to avoid blueberries from Peru or Chile