BERRY PRODUCTION IN NORWAY

Berries are widely grown commercially in this Scandinavian country. Because of the positive climatic influence of the Gulf Stream and the long days in the summer time, berry production is possible beyond the Arctic Circle and at a heighth of about 1000 m above sea level. Wild berries - especially bilberries, lingonberries, cowberries and raspberries are found all over the country. These species are frequently used in Norwegian households, but they are commercially cultivated today. The most important berry crops are strawberries (1800 hectares), red raspberries (250 hectares) and black currants (200 hectares).
Strawberries are mostly consumed fresh but also prepared as jam. The Dutch cultivar 'Korona', with large berries, rich in taste and aroma, is the dominating cultivar for the fresh
market. Other strawberry cultivars grown in Norway include 'Senga Sengana', 'Polka','Honeoye' and 'Inga'.