A GPG visit to berry production sites sees growers embracing premium fresh-market programmes, new genetics and climate-adaptive systems.
Global Plant Genetics (GPG) has highlighted the promise of Serbia as a developing source of berries.
The GPG team recently visited commercial berry production sites across the country, and found that the industry is continuing to evolve as growers increasingly invest in modern production systems and new genetics to meet changing market demands.
Working alongside long-term partner Zeleni Hit, GPG said that it met with Neša Momirović, Smiljana Momirović, Nevena Batić and Milica Momirović to review commercial raspberry, blackberry and blueberry plantings and discuss the opportunities and challenges facing growers.
GPG founder and co-owner Jamie Petchell pointed out that, while Serbia remains one of the world’s leading suppliers of raspberries for the IQF and processed fruit sectors, domestic consumption of fresh berries is increasing and growers are identifying new opportunities within premium fresh-market programmes.
This transition is influencing both production systems and variety selection, he said.
”During the visit, commercial plantings of Glen Mor, Glen Dee and Skye raspberries, together with Natchez and Von blackberries, demonstrated the role that modern genetics can play in improving fruit quality, consistency and commercial performance,” Petchell noted.
Discussions also explored the future potential of Pinnacle and new selections from the Oregon Blueberry breeding programme as Serbia’s blueberry sector continues to expand.
Climate change was another important topic throughout the GPG visit, the group said.
Growers reported milder winters and declining chilling hours, reinforcing the importance of breeding programmes capable of developing cultivars adapted to changing environmental conditions.
Investment in substrate production systems, protected cropping and modern agronomic techniques are also helping growers improve efficiency and produce fruit that meets the expectations of today’s fresh-market supply chains.
“Serbia has an exceptional berry-growing heritage,” said Petchell. ”What is particularly encouraging is seeing how growers are combining generations of experience with modern genetics and production systems to build an industry that is well positioned for the future.
”Innovation is not replacing tradition – it is strengthening it,” he added.
