North Carolina's local and regional food system includes the production of apples, blackberries, blueberries, figs, kiwifruit, muscadine grapes, pecans, peaches, nectarines, raspberries, and strawberries. Through the NC State Extension program fruit specialists and agents provide research-based information, educational programs, and developments throughout the state regarding the production of small fruits, tree fruits, and niche crops.
The primary goals are to add value, enhance profitability, management strategies through local production and marketing for homeowners, fruit producers, and the processing industry. Successful fruit growth is highly dependent on practicing proper production techniques, soil nutrition, pest and disease management, training, and pruning. Through NC State University research, many new horticultural crops have been introduced or developed with genetic resistance to pests, disease, heat tolerance, drought, and freeze damage.Fruit Resources
Small Fruits
The Small Fruit Program helps North Carolina and Southeastern farmers grow bunch grapes, muscadine grapes, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. See how you can optimize production through varietal selection, pruning and training, pest management, and postharvest handling.Tree Fruits
North Carolina ranks in the top 10 nationally for peach, apple, and pecan production. Explore successful grower solutions to orchard management, rootstocks, tree density, herbicides, common practices, and frequent challenges.NC Fresh Produce Safety
Food awareness and consumption is the best strategy in maintaining a healthy community. Unfortunately, fresh fruit and vegetables have sickened many people and have been linked to several outbreaks since 1990. Prevent foodborne illness and contamination through our practical suggestions.Please read our handbook on Food Safety for Schools + Community Gardens.
