Page 7 - Impact Spring 2023

The science of Minnesota strawberries
When it comes to fruit research, the U of M is best known for developing the Honeycrisp apple. However, the CFANS Department of Horticultural Science
also has a rich history of research into other fruits
and berries. The strawberry research program has been particularly active in creating new varieties and studying production practices to make crops more resilient and profitable for growers.
As climate change takes effect, it’s increasingly important to understand how strawberries will be affected. “Adapting to a changing environment is essential for ensuring the success of our strawberry research. After 50 years of trial and error, our dedication to intensive research has provided us with the knowledge necessary to keep our strawberry production flourishing for years to come,” said Jim Luby, PhD, professor, Department of Horticultural Science. Strawberries have a limited window of opportunity since they are susceptible to both heat and cold when growing. At the West Central Research and Outreach Center in Morris, CFANS scientists have conducted studies on strawberries since 1982, examining how well new cultivars and top picks from the breeding program adapt to Minnesota’s environment. Strawberries are clearly popular. USDA statistics show the country produced over one million tons in 2021, and according to the Minnesota Department
of Agriculture, there are more than 90 “Minnesota GrownTM” strawberry farmers in the state.
Andy Petran, PhD, who studied at CFANS and now grows strawberries at Twin Cities Berry Co. in Farmington, Minnesota, is confident in the future for farmers of this beloved berry. “I believe that through careful research and trial, we can make farming more accessible by protecting our crops and expanding our growing seasons,” he said. “It’s an investment in all of our futures and the future of farming in Minnesota.”
Honoring family, supporting science
For many teenagers, doing yard work is the quintessential first
job, earning some cash while beautifying neighborhood lawns.
For Eric White, recollections of the lawn mower’s whir and
that fresh-cut grass smell are also forever entwined with fond thoughts of his grandparents, Donald and Jean White.
Donald, who passed away in 2016, joined CFANS in 1961.
For decades, he taught courses related to turfgrass science, landscape design, and nursery management. Today, you’ll
find many of his former students working as professionals in
the turf industry, including as superintendents at major golf
courses across the U.S.
“My weekly trip to mow
their lawn, stir up the
compost pile, and help with
Nana’s garden created so
many great memories,”
said Eric, who is a
graduate of the
U of M Carlson School of
Management (CSOM) and
current teaching faculty
member in the CSOM
“After the yard work,
finance department. WITH HIS GRANDPARENTS.
we’d sit around the
ERIC WHITE AT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION kitchen table or on the
deck for at least an hour talking,
usually with an ice cream treat in hand.”
As an adult, Eric continues to honor this bond with his grandparents by giving to the Donald B. and Jean G. White Turfgrass Graduate Fellowship on a monthly basis. This
fellowship supports graduate students involved in the turfgrass science program, part of the Department of Horticultural Science.
“I want to carry on my grandparents’ legacy and provide recipients with the opportunity to contribute to a field that
Grandpa was so passionate about,” said Eric, whose parents, siblings, and many extended family members were educated
at or work at the University today, or both. “The research
coming out of the U of M has broad impacts across the state
and globe. My hope for these fellows is that they will follow
their curiosity and passion for turfgrass science. I’m confident they’ll make discoveries, intellectual contributions, and a long- lasting impact on our world. I know Grandpa and Nana would
be very proud of their work.”
 To learn more visit z.umn.edu/whitefellowship.