Description
This second edition contains nine chapters, providing an overview of the various aspects of blueberry science and culture. In chapter 1, the industry is described with information on the history of cultivation, the most important locations, the species and the cultural practices employed in the different production regions. Chapter 2 deals with the taxonomy of blueberry species, the history of improvement and current breeding efforts, tools and goals, and describes the most important blueberry cultivars grown worldwide. The emerging genomic information on the blueberry is highlighted. In chapter 3, the anatomy and morphology of the highbush (Vaccinium corymbosum) and rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei) are discussed, along with vegetative and reproductive growth and development. Chapter 4 deals with the generation and distribution of carbohydrates, and the factors involved in dry-matter production and partitioning among the various plant organs. Chapter 5 concentrates on the mineral nutrition of blueberries, the factors that affect the availability of nutrients, and the methods to establish and supply the nutrients to satisfy crop demands. Chapter 6 covers various management practices that are important in blueberry cultivation, including mulching, irrigation, soilless culture, cultivation under high tunnels, pruning, pollination and harvest. Chapter 7 examines plant growth regulators with regard to their application and the factors that affect their performance. The most relevant pests, diseases (viruses, bacteria and fungi) and weeds that attack blueberries are covered in chapter 8. Chapter 9 discusses the pre- and postharvest management of fruit quality.