Are you interested in modern raspberry production, unsure how to develop this production in your farm, or looking for ideas to produce higher quality fruits while wanting to establish business contacts with fruit buyers? All of this is available in one place at the 1st International Strawberry and Raspberry Conference – Berry Forum 2024, taking place on November 27-28 in Ożarów Mazowiecki. We warmly invite you to an extraordinary conference dedicated to innovations and challenges in the berry industry!
This event is the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge, make valuable contacts, and learn about the latest trends in raspberry cultivation. Together, let’s create a better future for the berry industry! The conference will be held in a modern hotel and conference center at Hotel Mazurkas (****).
Curious about the program? A brief description of what awaits raspberry producers on the second day of the conference is provided below. Those interested in the first day can find more information by clicking on the link
Part I – AGROTECHNIQUE
9:15–9:45 – Hits of the raspberry project (Rasberry Factory): protecting raspberries with a safe level of residues.
Dr. Paweł Krawiec from Horti Team will focus on key aspects of raspberry protection. Participants will learn which traditional protective measures are still effective, how to implement biological protection, and how to apply alternative methods while minimizing the level of active substance residues in fruits. Dr. Krawiec will also share the latest research and his practical observations.
9:45–10:25 – Managing nutrients and fruit quality.
Dennis Wilson from Delphy will remind participants how crucial it is to manage nutrients correctly concerning raspberry growth and fruit quality. He will address issues related to nutrient balance, pH monitoring, and their impact on flavor and durability of raspberries. D. Wilson’s presentation will also include innovative technologies supporting this process.
10:25–10:45 – Practically preparing good nutrient solutions.
Andrzej Miąsko from ICL will present methods for preparing nutrient solutions that are not only effective but also simple and economical. Participants will learn how to balance nutrients and how to effectively utilize supplied nutrients in building appropriate quality yields.
10:45–11:05 – Single or double harvest.
Damian Gaik and Dariusz Daniłkiewicz from Agronom Plants will initiate a discussion on raspberry harvesting strategies. Presenting the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches, they will share practical experiences related to these raspberry cultivation systems while utilizing the latest recommended raspberry varieties.
11:05–11:15 – Discussion and summary
A brief discussion session will be dedicated to exchanging ideas and reflections on the topics presented.
11:15–12:10 – Coffee break
Time for networking and sharing experiences over a cup of coffee, with the possibility of visiting companies presenting their solutions for berry cultivation.
Part II – TRENDS IN PRODUCTION
12:10–12:40 – Challenges and trends in soilless cultivation.
Krzysztof Żabówka from Fall Creek will present the evolution of soilless cultivation, its advantages, and pitfalls. Participants will learn about innovations regarding hydroponic systems and their impact on fruit quality. This presentation will also highlight trends and directions that should be followed when cultivating raspberries in substrates.
12:40–13:00 – The role of brown coal-based products in raspberry cultivation.
Radosław Łaźny from Plon Expert will discuss innovative brown coal-based products and their applications in raspberry cultivation, emphasizing their impact on soil health and yield.
13:00–13:20 – Biological and conventional pest control methods.
Tomasz Domański and Wojciech Niemiec from Agrosimex will share effective methods for combating pests such as spider mites and spotted wing drosophila, confronting them with new trends in biological plant protection.
13:20–13:40 – Who will work in the fruit harvest? Managing work and workers.
Wiesław Brzozowy from Fieldstone will address managing workers in the face of seasonal challenges. The discussion will focus on recruitment, training, and maintaining work efficiency.
13:40–13:50 – Discussion and summary
A review of the topics covered in the block, encouraging active discussion on encountered challenges.
13:50–15:00 – Lunch break (in the form of a buffet with a rich menu served by Hotel Mazurkas) is a time for lunch and further conversations in a less formal atmosphere.
Part III – CHALLENGES AND BREEDING
15:00–15:30 – Why raspberries crumble and are misshapen.
Dariusz Faryniarz from Delphy will discuss the main causes of quality issues in raspberries, such as crumbling and deformities. Participants will have the opportunity to learn practical tips and observations that will help improve harvest quality and increase production profitability.
15:30–15:50 – What to pay attention to when exporting strawberries and raspberries.
Jędrzej Lubicz from Frutania (Germany) will share key criteria regarding fruit production that can influence success in international markets. With his insights, participants will be better prepared to align their products with foreign buyers’ expectations.
DEBATE
15:50–16:10 – Raspberry breeding around the world.
In this session, Dr. Agnieszka Orzeł, a recognized breeder and author of 28 Polish raspberry and blackberry varieties, will present a global perspective on raspberry breeding. Participants will have the opportunity to hear her thoughts on breeding trends and innovations in this field, as well as learn about the latest raspberry varieties being introduced to production in Europe.
16:10–17:10 – Requirements for new raspberry varieties.
Experts from various corners of Europe will gather to discuss the requirements regarding new raspberry varieties. The conversation will include breeders and fruit producers:
– Dr. Agnieszka Orzeł (Poland)
– Nico de Groot (Advanced Berry Breeding, Netherlands)
– Alessandro Gualandi (G-Berries, Italy)
– Paweł Dąbrowski (Agronom Group, Poland)
During this debate, participants will learn about the most desired traits in new varieties, which varieties can be expected in the near future, and whether investing in their cultivation in local farms is worthwhile.
17:10–17:20 – Discussion and summary
At the end of the conference, participants will have the chance for an open discussion, summarizing the main topics and exchanging reflections on the future of the industry.
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Berry Forum 2024 will be an excellent opportunity to broaden horizons, share experiences, and establish new contacts among enthusiasts and experts in the fruit industry. We cordially invite you to participate in this unique conference, which will undoubtedly bring added value to every attendee!