PROFITABILITY OF HIGH TUNNEL STRAWBERRIES
Proposed by: Tim Baker
Presenters: Baker, T.P., Regional Horticulture Specialist (Northwest), University of Missouri Extension, Gallatin, MO 64640
Fowler, T.R., Regional Horticulture Specialist (Northwest), University of Missouri Extension, St. Joseph, MO 64507
Interest in high tunnel production of vegetables and small fruits remains at a high level among Extension horticulture clients. Frequently, growers will ask about strawberries in high tunnel systems. High tunnel crops should usually be those producing the greatest return per square foot, in order to more quickly pay off the investment in the tunnel. While strawberries are not the highest yielding crop per square foot, there may be a place for them in a high tunnel system under some circumstances. Strawberries would certainly work well in a crop rotation scheme, for example. They also may be a personally preferred crop for some growers, which will work if the selling price remains high from year to year. This presentation will outline the experiences of a producer growing high tunnel strawberries, showing how the crop is grown through the year. Profitability and other considerations will be given to help Extension agents guide their clients when questions about high tunnel strawberries are raised.