General Production Information

● In 2002, Tennessee was not ranked in national fresh market strawberry production (1), however produced approximately 800 acres during 2003. ● Total production in 2003 was estimated as having a market value of $10,000,000. ● Acreage in the last 3 years had been on a slow upward trend, increasing from 700 acres in 1999 to 800 acres in 2003. ● The top 5 counties in acreage as of 2002 were Unicoi, Washington, Rhea, Hawkins and Bledsoe. ● Harvest from traditional matted-row and plasticulture producers typically begins during the third week of April to second week of June and matted-row begins the second week of May and extends through the mid-June. However, use of plastic mulch and/or row covers may advance harvest by 1 to 2 weeks. Strawberry Production in Tennessee Matted-row production in Tennessee consists of 400-450 acres. Establishment cost of a matted-row system is approximately $1,500 per acre and if fumigation is used, production cost is increased by $1,200 per acre. Annual production costs range from $1500- $3000 per year. Fields may be replanted every 3rd to 4th year, however rotation is recommended. Net returns of $5,000-6,000 per acre per year are normal for 3 years only in a matted-row production system. Varieties most commonly used in matted-row systems include, Early Glow, Allstar, Delmarvel