New variety grower trials will begin this winter as part of the Zespri MBIE KiwiBerry new variety programme. New Zealand KiwiBerry Growers Inc. (NZKBG) is working with Zespri on the trial set-up and the selection of trial sites. NZKBG is seeking expressions of interest from KiwiBerry growers who want to participate in the trials. To submit your expression of interest, please head to the NZ KiwiBerry Growers Inc. website here.
The KiwiBerry varieties included in these trials are from the Kiwifruit Breeding Centre, our joint venture partner with Plant and Food Research, who have evaluated the new varieties of KiwiBerry on research vines. These varieties will now go through the next phase of development, which includes grower trials. Multiple varieties will enter the trial, including some new male pollinisers.
These trials are looking to understand the new varieties' performance when managed by commercial growers, which could eventually support growth of the New Zealand KiwiBerry industry. Zespri aims to have a small number of grower trial sites spread throughout New Zealand. These will be small-scale trials, with limited vines per variety and multiple trial varieties per site.
While experienced KiwiBerry growers are preferred, applications from growers with experience in berry growing will also be considered.
The target data collected in the trial would be information on budbreak, fruit size, yield and quality, harvest timing, and pest and disease tolerance when varieties are under commercial management conditions. KiwiBerry trialists will receive an annual payment for participating in the trial.
Please note that no commercial kiwifruit licence is being offered for participating in the trial.
Registrations are open Monday 11 - Friday 22 March 2024.
If you have any further enquiries, please send to kiwiberrytrials@zespri.com.
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