The investment will create two science clusters:
• The Canadian Horticultural Council will receive $3.6 million to create an Edible Horticulture Cluster to help improve production and increase marketable yields. Projects will address sector priorities such as field sanitation for blueberries and enhancing the storability of apples.
• The Vineland Research and Innovation Centre will receive $1.5 million to create an Ornamental Horticulture Cluster to help increase profitability through improved efficiencies and new market opportunities. Research will focus on a number of key areas, including developing best practices for pest and weed control and fertilization, optimal production conditions to reduce energy consumption and improved product development.
"The support for the horticulture science clusters is indeed welcome and very much appreciated," said Canadian Horticulture Council President Andy Vermeulen. "Research and innovation are the foundation to the continued success of Canada's vibrant and diverse horticulture sector, which is comprised of over 100 fruit and vegetable crops. The results of our cluster initiatives will have a real impact for those who grow, pack and ship these crops."
