Innovative technologies for improved wild strawberry production in marginal tuscan areas

The influence of soilless cultivation systems, year of production and cultivars on fruit yield and quality in wild strawberry (F. vesca L.) was studied. Peat-perlite mixture and grown bags filled with coconut-perlite were used as substrates in soilless culture. Performance of traditional field-grown plants (control) was compared to crop production on soilless media in open field and under protection during two production seasons. Strawberry yield was affected by the type of growing system, year and cultivar. Protected soilless culture produced significantly higher and/or earlier marketable yields. Production was highest for bag-grown 'Alpine' strawberries, but fruit appearance and quality was reduced compared to the control. Pomological parameters were differently affected by the considered factors. 'Alpine' gained a greater visual and organoleptic preference, resulting more suitable for soilless production.