READY TO TAKE ROOT

Getting Started with Small Fruit & Hops

The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) and the University of Maryland Extension (UME) partnered in 2018 and 2019 to offer a series of workshops on everything you need to know to grow, sell and market small fruits and hops in the Southern Maryland region and throughout the state of Maryland. The following resources were presented during the workshop series.

The workshop series and resource portal was made possible in part by a Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund Grant (RMPIF) and the the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Any further questions can be directed to SMADC Staff at info@smadc.com.

Southern Maryland Small Fruit Cultivar Trial – Results Released 8.31.20

University of Maryland Extension conducted research on 16 cultivars of blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries to determine best recommended varieties for growers in the region. The trial plots were established in the Spring and Fall of 2018 at the Central Maryland Research and Education Center in Upper Marlboro. Assessments were made of the vegetative growth, relative vigor, and size and yields of berries.

View or Download Trial Results

Video Library

Blueberries & Brambles Agenda
Blueberries & Brambles Industry Overview
Workshop Survey

BRAMBLES & BLUEBERRIES

There is a lot of interest in brambles (blackberries and raspberries) as well as blueberries as an alternative enterprise. These small fruits have a high per acre value and are often sought after by the consumers for the nutritional benefits and fresh taste.

This workshop session began with an overview of site preparation considerations for both blueberries and brambles including site selection, soil testing and fertility, and nematology. Next, establishment methods were discussed including variety selection for both brambles and blueberries, planting techniques, trellising requirements and bird protection. We rounded out the evening with a discussion of key pest management principles.

Presentations

Resources

Sample Budgets

Hops Agenda
Growing Hops in Maryland
Workshop Survey

HOPS

The number of local breweries has expanded rapidly over the last five years and with it the demand for fresh, locally source hops has also increased.

Hops can be grown well in the Southern Maryland region, however they require careful management and attention to detail to be successful. This workshop will provide an industry overview to include the current status of hops production and demand situation.

Next, production techniques will be discussed, including trellising requirements, site preparation, establishment methods and a review of current research on hops varieties best suited for this area. The evening will conclude with a review of hops harvest and processing methods.

Presentations

Strawberries Agenda
Strawberry Industry Overview
Workshop Survey

Strawberries

Strawberries lead the region in terms of both acreage and value for small fruit crops. There are two primary production methods for strawberries- the perennial matted row system and the annual plasticulture system. This workshop discussed both systems with an emphasis upon establishment methods, site selection, variety selection and pest management.

Presentations

Resources

Sample Budgets

Alternative & Niche Small Fruit Agenda
Workshop Survey

Niche & Alternative Crops

There are many opportunities for specialty production of niche fruit varieties in the Southern Maryland region. These species each bring unique market opportunities but require specialty production techniques. This workshop provided an industry overview and current market situation for specialty fruit followed by a discussion of Aronia, Beachplum, Cherry, Goldenberry, Ground Cherry, and Table Grapes.

Presentations

Resources

Marketing Agenda
Workshop Survey

Marketing Small Fruits

Producers don’t make money when they grow a crop, they make money when they sell it. Marketing is one of the most important things a business can do. Not only does marketing build brand awareness but it can also increase sales, grow businesses and engage customers. Workshop attendees received marketing information and tips targeted for each session. This final intensive marketing training session explored developing your product’s story, identifying your “ideal customer” profile, evaluating diversified marketing strategies, maximizing promotional materials and social media, and building a sustainable brand.

Presentations

Market Reports

Produce Marketing Reports (Lancaster Farming)
Philadelphia Terminal Market Produce Report, Pennsylvania Produce Auction Reports

USDA Specialty Crops Terminal Markets Standard Reports