Ongoing project
Understanding the cause of blueberry root wrapping and associated root crown disorders (BB23000)
Delivery Partner: University of Queensland
© 2026 Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited.
This project is investigating the causes and mitigation strategies for a disorder in blueberries that leads to significant yield loss in Australia, aiming to enhance the sustainability and productivity of the berry industry.
Challenge
Blueberry root wrapping and associated disorders can manifest as abnormal growth patterns like root wrapping, crown restriction, and stem occlusion. These symptoms can take months to years to appear after planting, complicating diagnosis and intervention, with very preliminary estimates suggesting losses of up to $20K per hectare annually.
Although the incidence is lower in Australia compared to international reports, its variability and delayed manifestation complicate diagnosis and intervention, making it crucial to understand the underlying factors contributing to the disorder's occurrence.
Response
To tackle the issue, the project is exploring potential causal factors related to blueberry root wrapping and crown restriction, focusing on propagation and early field growth practices. The team has been refining hypotheses based on industry observations and a thorough literature review.
A series of trials and experiments will be conducted to identify the primary causes and develop practical recommendations to mitigate the disorder. These findings will be shared with industry stakeholders to guide best practices and improve production outcomes for blueberry growers in Australia.
Benefit
By seeking to identify the root causes and developing effective mitigation strategies, the project will help Australian blueberry growers increase yield, mitigate financial losses and improve sustainability. This will align with the Berry Industry’s Strategic Investment Plan 2022-2026, contributing to a healthier and more resilient blueberry sector.
This project is a strategic levy investment in the Hort Innovation Blueberry Fund
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