Strawberry Variety Evaluation, Opportunities, and Challenges of High Tunnel Production

High tunnels can be used as a season extension tool allowing the growers to gain an early entry into the market, when berry prices are high, and when consumers are typically most excited about berry consumption and picking. There is limited information on variety choice and economic viability of strawberry production in high tunnel for Virginia strawberry growers. This study was our first effort to determine (i) suitability of strawberry varieties new to coastal Virginia and (ii) to understand strawberry cultivation in high tunnel environment. 'Sweet Ann' and 'Ruby June' were identified as promising high tunnel varieties for coastal Virginia climactic conditions. Here we document variety performance, opportunities and challenges of high-tunnel strawberry production.