Global berry breeding company Plant Sciences Genetics has debuted the first year-round low-reversion primocane variety under its Rejoice blackberry platform.
Rejoice primocane blackberry, BK 6-13, addresses key issues within the supply chain, according to the company. For growers, this includes strong yields, risk-reducing genetics, first-year fruiting and zero chill hours. For marketers, Rejoice is a robust varietal branding and co-promotion of a premium blackberry. For retailers and consumers, it’s a consistent eating experience and improved shelf life, the company says.
“We know retailers and our shipper-marketer members value Rejoice because of its ability to reduce rejections upon receipt and help minimize shrink at retail,” says Katie Montano, PSG’s marketing director.
PSG blackberry licensees will also have access to advanced selections, early pipeline testing, agronomic support and marketing collaboration.
The company says reversion is a major appearance challenge for blackberry cultivation and can be influenced by postharvest management and can vary by variety.
“After five years of working with Rejoice, we’ve found that its genetics naturally result in lower reversion incidence,” Montano says.
PSG says it has also identified ideal harvest intervals to reduce reversion.
“Rejoice is more than just genetics; it’s a complete platform that provides growers with agronomic support to optimize harvest and postharvest management,” Montano says.
The company says that feedback from grower partners, internal taste evaluations and fruit buyers has been positive, and Montano notes that, “Rejoice has generated strong demand thanks to its consistently good flavor, dependable quality, attractive appearance and year-round availability.”
PSG says BK 6-13 is just the first launch under the Rejoice platform, with more varieties to come.
“We have three additional releases that complement BK 6-13 with agronomic traits including earlier floricane production, thornlessness and later primocane production,” Montano says. “All of these varieties will be marketed under the Rejoice brand because they deliver the same consistent consumer promise of high-quality fruit with excellent appearance and flavor.”
