Project Number: 5320-21000-012-06
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 15, 2008
End Date: Aug 31, 2012

Objective:
This is a Standard Research and Extension Project (SREPs) bringing together scientists, economists, extension and industries in Hawaii and Oregon to: 1) investigate the potential of 'ohelo (Vaccinium reticulatum) an endemic Hawaiian berry as an ornamental potted plant, 2) establish sustainable 'ohelo berry production in Hawaii for culinary and value added products, 3) conduct critical economical analysis for objectives 1 & 2, 4) identify epidemiology, biology, host-pathogen interactions and management of potential fungal diseases that may impact sustainability.

Approach:
Develop clonal production protocols for three selected ornamental clones through cuttings and tissue culture propagation; grow out evaluation at four elevations. Develop sustainable berry production using 'ohelo seedlings at four sites. Prepare feasibility analyses of 'ohelo as an ornamental and berry crop. Develop culinary and value added uses for 'Ohelo berries. Determine the etiology and management of fungal diseases of 'ohelo in Hawaii. Extension and technology transfer to stakeholders. Documents Reimbursable with CSREES. Log 37102.