Upon entering the screenhouse at the Kentville Research and Development Centre, one might initially perceive rows of ordinary strawberry plants. However, a closer inspection reveals a diverse array of characteristics, including varying leaf sizes, plant heights, and shades of green.
Beatrice Amyotte, a research scientist at the center, recognizes the potential within these differences. Her role involves developing strawberry varieties that thrive for growers and yield berries that consumers adore. With Canada’s changing climate presenting new challenges, Amyotte faces a complex task.
According to Amyotte, climate models indicate an increase in extreme conditions, with Nova Scotia expected to receive more precipitation and higher temperatures in the future. Adapting to hotter and wetter climates is crucial for the sustainability of strawberry varieties.
The screenhouse, housing 160 different strawberry plant varieties, acts as a testing ground for potential distribution to nurseries across Canada or field testing at various research centers. Amyotte’s work with the Canadian Berry Trial Network involves growing these varieties in different Canadian regions to identify those resilient to changing climate conditions.
Philip Keddy, owner of Charles Keddy Farms near Kentville, acknowledges the challenges posed by climate change on growers. Fluctuating weather patterns impact crop yields and operational costs, emphasizing the need for resilient plant varieties.
Collaborating closely with Amyotte and the research center, Keddy selects strawberry varieties that suit his customers’ preferences and growing conditions. Tailoring berry varieties to specific climates ensures optimal growth and productivity for commercial growers facing diverse environmental challenges.
Developing climate-resilient strawberry varieties is a gradual process, requiring 10 to 15 years for new seeds to reach commercial viability. Amyotte emphasizes the importance of mimicking specific environmental stresses during the breeding process to enhance the varieties’ adaptability to changing climate conditions.
In conclusion, the ongoing research at the Kentville Research and Development Centre aims to create strawberry varieties capable of withstanding climate change, supporting the sustainability of Canada’s berry industry.