Blueberries for Growers, Gardeners, and Promoters. Norman F. Childers and Paul Lyrene (eds.). 2006. Dr. Norman F. Childers Publications, 3906 N.W. 31st Place, Gainesville, FL 32606. 266 p. $50 plus $8 shipping, softcover. Color photos. ISBN 0-938378-16-3.
Blueberries for Growers, Gardeners, and Promoters is a timely publication. As indicated in the opening, blueberry acreage increased significantly during the period from 1993 to 2003, with the North American acreage of highbush cultivars being slightly above the acreage of lowbush cultivars. The percentage of increase in fresh production of blueberries over this period was more than double that of processed production. These trends demonstrate the increased awareness of the versatility of this crop and the health benefits associated with its consumption.
The book provides an introduction to blueberries and the several species used in production. It is targeted at growers, home gardeners, and also academicians. Developing a worthwhile publication for such a wide audience would seem to be an impossible challenge. However, the authors have indeed been equal to the task.
Section one presents a good discussion of the factors affecting growth and fruiting for all types of blueberries, beginning with phenology and environmental effects on growth and development. The discussion of varieties is accompanied by good descriptions and pictures. Cultural practices, ranging from site selection to nutrition, pruning, pollination, and pest control, are covered in a thorough, easy-to-understand manner as is the discussion of harvest and postharvest operations. Food safety occupies an important part of this discussion, as it should. Information on evaluating the profitability of blueberry production, organic production, lowbush production, health benefits, and home garden production rounds out Section one.
The remaining sections provide a good review of blueberry production in regions of the United States and in foreign countries. These discussions reinforce the idea that blueberries occupy a valuable place in fruit production throughout this country and the world.
Blueberries for Growers, Gardeners, and Promoters would be a great addition to the library for a wide range of people. It is a good reference for those contemplating or just beginning blueberry production. For existing growers and for research/extension personnel, it will serve as a good review of methods used in production and marketing. The book is comprehensive, offering good information for everyone with an interest in blueberry production and marketing, and is written in an easy-to-understand manner.