CRANBERRY PRODUCTION

A Guide for Massachusetts

University of Massachusetts Cranberry Station

College of Natural Resources and the Environment
East Wareham, MA
 CRANBERRY PRODUCTION:
A GUIDE FOR MASSACHUSETTS

Editors
Hilary A. Sandler and Carolyn J. DeMoranville

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS
PUBLICATION
CP-08

UMASS-AMHERST
COLLEGE OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

UMass Cranberry Station

P.O. Box 569
East Wareham, MA 02538
(508) 295-2212

http://www.umass.edu/cranberry

December 2008
 Contributing Authors

Anne Averill, Professor-Small Fruit Entomology

University of Massachusetts-Amherst Department of Plant, Soil, and Insect Sciences

Frank Caruso, Extension Associate Professor-Plant Pathology

University of Massachusetts-Amherst Cranberry Station

Carolyn DeMoranville, Station Director & Extension Associate Professor-

Nutrition and Soils
University of Massachusetts-Amherst Cranberry Station

Peter Jeranyama, Extension Assistant Professor-Plant Physiology

University of Massachusetts-Amherst Cranberry Station

Jeffrey LaFleur, Executive Director

Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association

Kenna McKenzie, Research Scientist

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Kentville, Nova Scotia

Linda Rinta, Cranberry Farm Planner

Plymouth County Conservation District, Wareham Field Office

Hilary Sandler, Extension Educator-Cranberry IPM

University of Massachusetts-Amherst Cranberry Station

Brian Wick, Director, Regulatory Services

Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association

Production
Cover Design: Hilary Sandler and Martha Sylvia
Cover Photograph: Jennifer Friedrich
Manuscript Preparation and Design: Hilary Sandler
Page Proofing: Deborah Cannon

Acknowledgements
Special thanks are extended to the following persons for their assistance in providing information,
technical review, or technical and clerical support: Dan Barnett (NRCS), Deborah Cannon and Natalie Guerin
(Cranberry Station), Jack Heywood (Stearns Irrigation), Martha Sylvia (Cranberry Station), and Steve Ward
(chemigation consultant).

ii
Portions from the previous publication (SP-127) listed below have been updated slightly by the editors, but the
initial authors’ names continue to be associated with their original work:

Wildlife Utilization by S. Ellsworth and D. Schall of ENSR, Inc. Northborough, MA.

Wetlands Functions by G. Hollands, ENSR, Inc., Northborough, MA.

A product of the Cranberry Station, College of Natural Resources and the Environment,
University of Massachusetts Amherst, and UMass Extension, in cooperation with the
United States Department of Agriculture.

University of Massachusetts Extension offers equal opportunity in programs and employment.

Trade names are used for identification; no company endorsement nor product discrimination is intended. The University of
Massachusetts makes no warranty or guarantee of any kind, expressed or implied, concerning the use of these products.

iii
 Table of Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1
Botany and Basic Farm Features .................................................................................................... 3
Descriptions of Cranberry Bogs in Massachusetts ......................................................................... 7
Properties of Bog Soil ................................................................................................................... 11
Activities on a Cranberry Farm..................................................................................................... 13
Cultural Practices in Cranberry Production: Sanding and Pruning .............................................. 16
Harvesting and Handling Cranberries ........................................................................................... 22
Renovating Cranberry Farms ........................................................................................................ 26
Influence of Weather on Cranberry Production ............................................................................ 29
Water Use in Cranberry Production .............................................................................................. 39
Sprinkler System Design, Use, and Performance ......................................................................... 42
Application of Irrigation Water .................................................................................................... 53
Chemigation .................................................................................................................................. 57
Frost Management ........................................................................................................................ 60
Flood Management ....................................................................................................................... 66
Cranberry Cultivars ....................................................................................................................... 72
Integrated Pest Management ......................................................................................................... 85
Weed Management ....................................................................................................................... 94
Disease Management .................................................................................................................. 100
Insect Management ..................................................................................................................... 107
Nutrient Management ................................................................................................................. 125
Pollination ................................................................................................................................... 141
Sign Posting and Description of Zone II Regulations ................................................................ 149
Pesticide Registration, Licenses, Application, and Storage ........................................................ 151
Breakdown and Movement of Pesticides .................................................................................... 155
Normal Agricultural Practices for Maintenance or Improvement of Cranberry Bogs ............... 159
Conservation Planning for Cranberry Farming........................................................................... 165
Wetlands Functions of Cranberry Beds ...................................................................................... 167
Wildlife Utilization on Commercial Cranberry Wetlands Systems ............................................ 171
Directory of Agencies ................................................................................................................. 173
References ................................................................................................................................... 175
Index ........................................................................................................................................... 188

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 Preface
The cranberry industry is important revised, enlarged, and reorganized to reflect
economically and aesthetically to the current industry knowledge and to incorporate
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A lthough recent research.
cranberry growers currently cultivate ca. 14,000
acres, they own more than 60,000 acres of land The intent of this publication is to provide the
in the state. In the most recent survey, the wide range of Massachusetts growers with a
cranberry industry accounted for 5,500 jobs and comprehensive, but workable, reference of
$2 million in payroll (Cape Cod Cranberry cranberry production practices. I t is our hope
Growers' Association, pers. comm.). E arnings that the information contained in this manual
from the 2007 harvest were valued at ca. $64.6 will provide each reader with succinct and
million for 1.51 million barrels (one barrel =100 relevant information that will guide their daily
pounds of fruit) produced from 13,700 acres. decision-making in the field.
Growers harvested an average of 109 barrels per
acre during the 2007 growing season. The Anyone interested in the details of cranberry
Massachusetts industry accounted for 23% of growing will benefit from the information
the total domestic production (6.4 million presented in this publication. A n extensive
barrels) in 2007. Wisconsin is the largest bibliography of historic and current research
producer of cranberries in the United States information is available at the back of the
(usually >50%). Massachusetts and Wisconsin publication. For specific management
combine to produce over three-fourths of all recommendations, especially for pest control,
U.S. cranberries. please consult the Cranberry Chart Book. T he
Chart Book is updated yearly and is available as
In recent years, potential, new, and experienced printed copies from the Cranberry Station by
growers have expressed interest in obtaining request and on the Cranberry Station web site in
additional information relating to the modern downloadable PDFs.
practices associated with cranberry cultivation
and production. In addition, there seemed to be Other interested parties, including conservation
a need for a comprehensive resource containing commissioners, agriculture commissioners,
an array of technical information and historical public officials, and real estate agents, who may
perspectives that have formed the foundation of only be interested in a brief description of
many of our management recommendations. cranberry management practices (in lieu of
trying to skim some of the more lengthy articles
This document (CP-08) contains relevant for general information), may wish to obtain a
sections of two former publications: Modern copy of the Executive Summary of this manual.
Cranberry Cultivation (a.k.a. SP-126 and SP-127 Copies of the Executive Summary are available
published in 1987 and 1997, respectively) and through the University of Massachusetts
Massachusetts Cranberry Production: An Cranberry Station or the Cape Cod Cranberry
Information Guide published in 1993. S elected Growers’ Association.
sections from these publications have been
 Introduction
The large American cranberry (Vaccinium mainland were reclaimed by the rapid expansion
macrocarpon) is a native American wetland of cranberry production. B oth types of bog
fruit. Its vines thrive on the special combination reclamations contributed to the development of a
of soils and hydrology found in the wetlands unique industry.
environment. Natural bogs evolved from glacial
deposits that left kettle holes lined with Production Statistics. M ost of the world’s
impermeable materials. These kettle bogs cranberries are produced in the United States on
became filled with water and decaying matter, approximately 39,000 acres. The traditional
creating the ideal environment for cranberries. yield unit is the barrel, which is equivalent to
100 pounds. In 2007, the U.S. produced 6.395
It takes more than a b og to grow cranberries. million barrels of cranberries (Farrimond 2005)
They also rely on a surrounding network of The predominant U.S. production areas are
support acres - the fields, forests, streams, and Wisconsin, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon,
ponds that make up t he cranberry wetlands and Washington. L imited commercial acreage
system. can also be found in Rhode Island, Maine, New
York, New Hampshire and Michigan (D.
Cranberry growers typically own 3-5 acres of Farrimond, pers.comm.). These states typically
uplands or surrounding lands for every acre of combine to produce less than 1% of the U.S.
producing cranberry bog that they manage. This production. Cranberries are also commercially
means Massachusetts cranberry growers are the cultivated in other countries including Canada
stewards for more than 60,000 acres of open (British Columbia, Quebec, and the Atlantic
space. This open space is an important Provinces combine for about 10,000 acres) and
ingredient to the regional character that is so Chile (1,000 acres). F ruit produced outside of
appealing to many residents of Southeastern the U.S. accounted for 19% of the world’s
Massachusetts. The vast cranberry system offers production in 2006).
refuge for many plant and animal species. Like
all wetlands, the cranberry wetlands system The cranberry industry is very important
filters groundwater, recharges aquifers, and economically to Massachusetts, particularly in
controls floods by retaining storm water runoff the southeastern region of the state. In 2007,
(Johnson 1985). sales of cranberries were valued at $70.9 million
(National Agricultural Statistics Service 2008b),
Many cranberry beds, particularly those located accounting for 16% of the cash farm receipts in
in Plymouth County, are built in areas that had Massachusetts (National Agricultural Statistics
been mined for bog iron. Bog iron, although a Service 2008a). C ranberry production is the
low grade ore, helped to establish the first iron third largest agricultural commodity in
industry in the country. When the steel industry Massachusetts, following greenhouse and dairy
in the Great Lakes region started to produce farms. Data from the mid-1990’s indicated that
greater amounts and higher quality iron less cranberry accounted for 5,500 jobs and $2
expensively, iron manufacturing in million U.S. in payroll to Massachusetts
Massachusetts declined. S ubsequently, residents (Cape Cod Cranberry Growers'
abandoned and apparently useless bogs became Association, pers. comm.).
readily available for conversion to producing
cranberry bogs (Thomas 1990). Until the mid 1990’s, cranberry growers from
the combined area of southeastern
Whereas cranberry production on Cape Cod has Massachusetts, the Cape Cod peninsula,
been mostly restricted to development of peat Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket, led the
bogs, the abandoned iron ore bogs on the industry worldwide in total production and total

1
harvested acres. Since then, Wisconsin has number of barrels. T he price per barrel can be
taken the lead in terms of acreage and paid out to the grower in a variety of ways,
production, and Wisconsin produces most of the depending on t he contract. T hey can receive
nation’s cranberries (Table 1). Currently, additional payments if their fruit has good red
Massachusetts and Wisconsin account for more color (anthocyanin content) and excellent
than 75% of the U.S. cranberries in a typical quality. G rowers’ crop payments may be
year. reduced if their fruit is delivered with too much
rotted fruit. P roduction efficiency is related to
the number of barrels produced per acre.
Table 1. 200 7 Crop statistics for U.S. Harvest success is usually gauged upon the year-
production. to-year comparison of the number of barrels
Production Yield produced from each particular farm.
State Acres (1,000 bbl) (bbl/A)
WI 17,600 3,710 211
MA 13,700 1,488 109
NJ 3,100 531 171
OR 2,700 490 182
WA 1,700 176 104
Source: New England Agricultural Statistics, Jan. 25,
2008.

Five towns, all within Plymouth County,

account for approximately two-thirds of
cranberry acreage in Massachusetts: Carver
(3,400 A), Wareham (1,600 A), Middleboro
(1,400 A), Plymouth (1,200 A), and Rochester
(1,100 A) (Cape Cod Cranberry Growers'
Association, pers. comm.). Fig. 1. Traditional cranberry barrel. Yields are
currently expressed as ‘barrels’, which are
Payment for crops. Cranberry growers usually equivalent to 100 p ounds. Photo courtesy H.
enter into a multi-year contract with a company Sandler.
(handler) that will agree to buy their fruit.
Growers are paid for their crop in terms of

2
 Botany and Basic Farm Features
Hilary A. Sandler
BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION

Nomenclature. Cranberry belongs to the

Ericaceae or heath family, to which plants in the
genera Rhododendron and Kalmia (laurels) also
belong. Members of this family prefer acidic
soils (pH 4-5) that are moist, well drained and
high in organic matter (3-15%). Cranberry is
usually placed in the genus, Vaccinium, which
has 22 species including lowbush blueberry (V.
angustifolium), bog bilberry (V. uliginosum),
and lignonberry (V. vitis-idaea) (Gleason and
Cronquist 1991). S ome botanists place
cranberry in the genus, Oxycoccus, leading to
some confusion in the literature with regards to
nomenclature. For the purposes of this manual,
Fig. 1. C ranberry uprights and runners,
we will refer to cultivated cranberry by the
approximately 2 y ears old. P hoto courtesy K.
genus, Vaccinium.
Demoranville.
The American or large-fruited cranberry, V.
macrocarpon, is the most commonly cultivated
Uprights and Buds. Short vertical branches two
cranberry. Its native range extends from Maine
to eight inches high, called uprights, originate
and the Atlantic Provinces to northern Illinois,
from the axillary buds on the runners (Fig. 2)
and south to Tennessee (at high elevations). V.
and grow for several years (Shawa et al. 1984;
vitis-idaea is known by many names including
Eck 1990). The uprights are distinguished from
partridge berry, mountain cranberry, and
runners by the whorled arrangement of their
lignonberry and is widely distributed (mainly
leaves and their vertical growth habit.
circumboreal). The small or European cranberry
Cranberry uprights can produce two types of
V. oxycoccus, has smaller leaves, flowers, and
buds: flowering (fruit) and vegetative.
fruit and is not cultivated in North America (Eck
Flowering buds, also known as mixed buds, are
1990; Gleason and Cronquist 1991).
easily recognized by their large size and plump
appearance. The rosettes of leaves enclosing a
Vine and Leaves. The cultivated cranberry is a
fruit bud are saucer-shaped. In contrast, the
low-growing, trailing, woody, broadleaf, non-
vegetative bud is more pointed, and the leaves
deciduous vine (Fig. 1). W hen the vines
are more upright and tend to envelop the bud.
successfully colonize an area, they form a thick,
The scales (or leaves) tend to look loose. The
continuous mat over the entire surface of a
vegetative bud is often smaller than the fruit
cultivated bed. Stolons, often referred to as
bud.
runners, will range from one to six feet long.
The leaves are leathery, subsessile, and
Roots. The cranberry root system is made up of
elliptical-oblong (5-15 mm), and rounded at the
very fine, fibrous roots that develop within the
tip (Gleason and Cronquist 1991). They are
upper three to six inches of soil. Cranberry roots
reddish-brown during the dormant season
do not have root hairs. Cranberry vines are
(October through April) and dark green during
aided in the absorption of nutrients by a
the growing season.
symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi

3
(Addoms and Mounce 1931). These fungi are with increased seed count (Marucci and Filmer
known as ericoid mycorrhizae and primarily 1964). T hus, most growers use honeybees
assist in the absorption of organic forms of and/or bumblebees to increase the chances of
nitrogen by the plant. cross-fertilization and the production of large
fruit.

Fruit. Berries are almost always produced on

the uprights, although in some varieties under
certain conditions, fruit may be produced on
runners. Berries (and flowers) mature from the
‘bottom up’, so the largest fruits will be found
towards the bottom of the upright and the
smallest fruits will be towards the top (Fig. 3).
The first fruit that form tends to be the largest
because it preferentially draws the plant’s
carbohydrates to itself (Baumann and Eaton
1986; Birrenkott and Stang 1990). Berries reach
maturity about 80 d ays after full bloom.
Harvesting typically begins around mid-
Fig. 2. Diagram of the principle parts of the September and continues through early
cranberry plant including vegetative uprights, November.
uprights with flowers and fruits, and the woody
runner to which the uprights are attached
(Beckwith 1932).

Flowers. Flowering buds are formed terminally

on the uprights and become easily visible during
the summer or early fall. Each fruit bud may
contain two to seven flowers as w ell as leaves
and a growing point. The plants come out of
dormancy in April (depending on w eather
conditions and nutritional status) and begin to
develop new leaves in late May. The flowering
period begins during the middle of June and
lasts from three to six weeks. T he first berries Fig. 3. Cranberry uprights with flowers,
are visible in late June or early July. The curve pinheads, and fruit. Photo courtesy J. Mason.
of the slender flower stem with the ready-to-
open blossom is said to resemble the neck and
head of a crane, hence suggesting the name, Yield Components. Two components are
‘craneberry’, which is now shortened to considered particularly important for
cranberry. determining yield: number of fruit per upright
and number of flowering uprights per unit area
The cranberry flower is self-fertile, that is, the (Eaton and Kyte 1978; Eaton and MacPherson
pollen from a given flower can fertilize the egg 1978). Percent fruit set varies among cranberry
from the same flower. A gitation or wind can varieties but typically falls in the range of 25-
lead to successful pollination, but usually at very 45%. If a farm has 200 f lowering uprights per
low rates (Filmer and Doehlert 1959). C ross- square foot and produces 1.5 berries per upright,
pollination (pollen from one flower fertilizes the the resulting crop would be approximately 300
egg in a different flower) produces bigger fruit bbl/A (DeMoranville 2008).

4
 BASIC FARM FEATURES certain water elevation. F lumes may be fitted
with filters containing activated charcoal to help
Cranberry beds in Massachusetts range from less filter discharge water under certain situations.
than one acre to more than one hundred acres in
size. T hey tend to be very irregular in shape
since they typically follow the contours of kettle
hole formations or abandoned iron ore bogs
(Deubert and Caruso 1989). The bog area is
typically the lowest part of the landscape. It is
comprised of perimeter and interior drainage
ditches and dikes that can readily contain water
(Fig. 4). Due to the periodic need for flooding,
beds are always associated with nearby water
bodies such as ponds, rivers, or man-made
reservoirs. Irrigation systems consisting of flood
gates, flumes, lift pumps, piping, and sprinkler
heads are critical components of the working
farm.

Fig 5. Flume with riprap. Outlet canal in back.

Photo courtesy CCCGA.

Tailwater (relating to excess surface water)

recovery systems and holding ponds are used to
hold, recycle, and conserve water within the
cranberry bog system. S ystems are typically
designed so gravity can be used to move water
either on or off the bog. On flow-through beds
(those containing a permanently flowing stream
or constant water discharge), a bypass canal may
be constructed to re-direct water during normal
agricultural practices.
Fig. 4. Aerial view of cranberry farms in Dikes are embankments constructed of earth or
southeastern Massachusetts. P hoto courtesy J. other suitable materials to protect land against
LaFleur. overflow or to regulate or contain water. T hey
subdivide large bogs into smaller sections to
facilitate water and pest management. Dikes are
Water Control Structures. Growers need to usually wide enough to permit the use of trucks
manipulate water during the course of the season and other machinery. D ikes are used to
for a variety of reasons. These structures help to temporarily impound water for harvest, leaf litter
flood the beds, impound water, manipulate the removal, pest control, and protection against
water table, and provide drainage. The primary winter injury. D ikes can also be used to
water control structures are flumes, dikes, and impound water for the preservation of water
pumps (DeMoranville and Sandler 2000b). quality, limiting the discharge of sediments, and
separating waters following a p esticide
Flumes are water control structures normally application. D ikes allow the control of water
made from steel, aluminum or concrete (Fig. 5). levels to maintain the depth from rooting zone to
They are installed in a dike to convey water, water table for optimum cranberry growth and
control the direction of flow or maintain a productivity. Dikes can also surround tailwater

5
or other irrigation ponds to facilitate water age of a cranberry bog by counting the layers of
storage. sand and organic matter in the soil profile.

Pumps are usually located next to the water

resources and typically housed in a small shed.
The shed protects the pump from weather, helps
to minimize noise, and limits vandalism.

Sprinkler Systems. Sprinkler systems are used

for irrigation, evaporative cooling, frost
protection, and chemigation (application of
chemicals through the irrigation system).
Irrigation systems typically consist of buried
lateral pipes (PVC or metal) with risers attached
at various spacings. Growers typically employ
impact-style sprinkler heads (e.g., Rain Bird
equipment). In the past few years, growers have
begun to convert to the use of pop-up heads, Fig. 6. Soil core showing the alternating layers
similar to those used in lawns and golf courses. of sand and organic matter typical of a
Almost all growers have adopted the use of commercial cranberry farm. Photo courtesy H.
sprinklers. S prinkler systems conserve water Sandler.
and perform the desired tasks much faster than
flooding (the historical practice).
Flags. People often notice the use of flags on
Cranberry Soil. Cranberry bog soil is unique commercial cranberry farms. Flags are used to
because it consists of alternating layers of sand mark the center line, which helps growers
and organic matter (Fig. 6). D ead leaves (also efficiently harvest fruit when the vines are under
referred to as trash or duff) accumulate over the water. Flags can be used by researchers to mark
course of time and sand is placed on top of the the edges of plots for their experiments.
organic material every two to five years to Growers may also use flags to mark certain
encourage upright production and maintain areas that have pest management or other
productivity. The amount of sand that may be production concerns.
applied during this essential cultural practice
varies from one-half to two inches. Weather Stations. Some growers install
weather stations on their farms to allow data
In contrast to regular agricultural soils, cranberry collection of temperature, wind speed, relative
bog soil needs no tilling, remains undisturbed humidity, and soil temperatures. T he
over time, and little mixing of sand and organic information is usually downloaded to a
matter takes place. T hus, alternating layers of computer or laptop or may be accessed by hand-
sand and organic matter accumulate producing a held devices.
‘layer-cake effect’. One can often estimate the

6
 Descriptions of Cranberry Bogs in Massachusetts
Carolyn DeMoranville
PEAT-BASED BOGS

Bogs may form in any location where water When rapid melting of the glacier occurred,
collects and organic matter accumulates. I n outwash channels were cut into the outwash
Massachusetts, bogs formed following the end plain. Later, as flow through the channels
of the last Ice Age as the glacier that reached as slowed, vegetation began to grow along the
far south as Long Island and Nantucket Island banks. O ver time, the plants filled in the
melted and receded. A s the glacier receded, channel creating a wetland. These wetlands
outwash plains of glacial till were left behind. were of two morphologies, those with streams
Sometimes blocks of ice that had broken from running through them that ended in an adjacent
the glacier were left on or buried in the outwash. pond and those where the stream continued on to
As large blocks melted, ponds were created. As another wetland and eventually to a pond or the
smaller blocks melted, pits called kettle holes sea. Many Massachusetts bogs are of this type,
were formed (Fig. 1). Fine-grained sediments in although this may be difficult to recognize due
these holes stabilized the water table and aquatic to the construction of adjacent reservoirs built by
plants began to grow in from the edges, cranberry growers and the construction of
eventually filling the kettle holes. Over time, bypass canals to remove the stream flow from
plants died, decaying plants accumulated, within the bog (Deubert and Norton 1987). So-
organic sediment layers formed, and a kettle- called ‘flow-through’ bogs are of this type with
hole bog was created. Such bogs may consist of the stream remaining within the bog.
an entirely filled kettle hole or a partially filled
kettle hole. The later would have the appearance Over many years, plants grew in these wetlands
of a bog adjacent to a pond (Johnson 1985). and kettle holes then died and decayed. Organic
acids were released during decomposition and so
the pH in the bog decreased. Oxygen was
limited in the sediment layers and so
decomposition slowed as the sediment layer
thickened. The deepest, most decomposed
organic layers became sedimentary peat or
muck, while the upper layers remained less
decomposed fibrous peat.

What are now peat-based cranberry bogs in

Massachusetts (Fig. 2) originated in these
peatlands. Under these peat deposits lies an
impervious layer that originated at the end of the
last Ice Age. This impervious layer, or hardpan,
makes it possible to flood these bogs for
extended periods. T his layer also serves to
separate these bogs from the natural water table.
Some cranberry bogs in Plymouth County are
Fig. 1. R eproduction of a ground penetrating built on abandoned iron bogs, where the hardpan
radar image of UMass State Bog showing kettle is a layer of iron oxide materials.
hole formations. Three soil types are depicted.
Image courtesy Plymouth County Soil Survey, Deubert conducted a series of test borings to
http://www.nesoil.com/gpr/bogs.htm. determine the depth to hardpan in cranberry

7
bogs (Deubert and Caruso 1989). H e pushed cranberry bogs. However, there is considerable
half-inch metal tubes, eight feet in length, evidence that water can move horizontally in the
through the soil in small peat-based cranberry upper layers of a cranberry bog. Growers take
beds in the Sandy Neck Dunes in an attempt to advantage of this property when they move
find the depth of peat in the various parts of the moisture into the upper layers of their bogs by
beds. In areas of poor productivity, the hardpan raising the water level in the drainage ditches.
was either near the surface (less than 2 feet) or Conversely, drainage and root-zone aeration are
missing, while in the productive areas, the depth achieved by lowering the water level in the
to hardpan averaged 7 feet. In this setting, the ditches. By combining ditch level manipulation
impermeable layer consisted of a yellowish- with sprinkler irrigation, cranberry growers
brown clay. maintain the water table within the bog (above
the impervious layer) at the ideal level of 6 to 18
inches below the surface, allowing water to
reach the roots but maintaining good aeration in
the root zone (Fig. 3).

Peat-based cranberry bogs differ from natural

bogs in that the upper layers of natural
vegetation have been removed, the soil has been
modified by the addition of a sand layer, and
cranberry plants have been introduced. Not only
are the cranberry plants separated from the
natural groundwater table by an impervious
layer, they are often also separated from the
stagnant water in the underlying peat. Thus,
cranberry bog soils are subject to desiccation as
would be any other agricultural soil. T his
Fig. 2. Typical cranberry farm in Massachusetts. explains the need for extensive irrigation (0.5-2
Photo courtesy H. Sandler. acre-inch per week) during drought periods.
While manipulation of ditch levels can move
Beginning in the 1990s, Doolittle, Fletcher and water into the upper soil layers, research has
Turenne implemented the use of ground- shown that during dry periods, the water table in
penetrating radar (GPR) to estimate the depth of the bed centers (furthest from the ditches) can
peat under many Massachusetts cranberry bogs. drop below the ideal 18 inches and plants in the
This device allows the study of bogs much bed centers can suffer drought injury as a result
deeper than the 8-foot depth limit of Deubert's (Fig. 3).
study. The GPR method showed that bogs that
developed in kettle holes or in outwash channels As one might expect, there are exceptions.
tend to have shallow layers of peat along the Some cranberry bogs are situated in depressions
perimeter with substantial depth of peat near the such that water from surrounding uplands drains
bog centers (Doolittle et al. 1990). The GPR into them. Others have upwelling springs within
also showed the presence of the impermeable the bog. S uch ‘wet bogs’ must be drained
layer under these bogs. periodically so that air can reach the roots for
proper growth.
Studies of natural bogs have shown that water
saturates the lower layers of the peat. Wetting
and drying cycles appear to be limited to the
upper layers where living vegetation occurs.
This would seem to indicate that vertical
movement of water and dissolved chemicals is
minimized in peat bogs, including peat-based

8
 MINERAL SOIL BOGS

Regulatory restrictions on development of new

cranberry bogs in wetlands has resulted in a
limitation on the sites where new bogs may be
constructed. W hile renovation of existing
wetland cranberry bogs is permitted, new
acreage is restricted to non-traditional settings,
typically uplands. A s in the wetland bogs, an
ample supply of good quality fresh water,
adequate drainage of the bogs, and the ability to
hold a flood to cover the cranberry vines are
essential to successful cranberry production on
mineral soils.

When bogs are constructed on mineral soils, the

site is engineered to provide suitable hydrology
and soil characteristics to mimic those in
traditional wetland settings. A dapting the
existing site hydrology to one that supports
cranberry production may require manipulation
of the water table, soil permeability, soil texture,
and soil organic carbon content. The objective
is to create a cranberry bog that can be managed
using many of the same techniques used on peat-
based bogs. I n order to accomplish this
objective, a sl owly permeable subsoil layer
(water confining layer) is placed so that a
‘perched’ water table is created at some distance
above the true water table. An organic layer is
placed above the confining layer with the sand
planting medium on t op. Such a construction
design is shown in Fig. 4.

Water confining layer. A continuous,

confining layer of sufficient density and
thickness to restrict water permeability is
constructed below the root zone of the cranberry
bog, extending beneath the drainage ditches and
into the interior of the dikes (Fig. 4.). This layer
is necessary to flood for winter protection and
Fig. 3. Change in water table level in three harvest, to hold soil moisture reserves in the
scenarios. (Top) The level of the water table is summer, and to minimize leaching. Examples of
too high; no irrigation needed and consider this layer include compacted fine soils such as
lowering ditch water levels. (Center) Float is in clay or relatively impermeable sub-soil such as
middle zone and no i rrigation is needed. dense basal glacial till, glacio-fluvial clays, or
(Bottom) Middle zone of float is no l onger ironstone (‘bog ore’) hardpans that may occur
visible, irrigation is needed to replenish water naturally on site.
table. (Lampinen 2000).
Organic confining layer. This layer is placed
above the confining layer and is 12 or more

9
inches thick with at least 5% organic carbon surface during renovation, can be composted and
(8.5% organic matter). Its purpose is to confine re-used as organic liners on new bogs.
fertilizers and pesticides within the bog and to
facilitate water relations in the perched water Planting medium. The root zone should consist
table. The best choices for this layer are peat or of about 6 i nches of coarse sand (>70% in the
muck (20% organic carbon). The next best 0.5-2 mm particle size range) to insure adequate
choice is to amend low-organic soil with organic drainage and aeration.
materials containing humus (peat, muck, organic
ditch dredgings, renovation sediments, yard
compost, decomposed wood waste). O rganic
debris, including material scalped from the bog

Dike Dike

Perched water table

*Cranberry
* * * bog
******
Sand (6-8 inches)
Ditch

Organic confining layer (8-12 inches thick)

Water confining layer (variable thickness)

Native soil

True water table

Fig. 4. Cross-section of a cranberry bog constructed in mineral soil, not to scale. Organic and water
confining layers create a perched water table. Diagram courtesy C. DeMoranville (DeMoranville
2006).

10
 Properties of Bog Soil
Carolyn DeMoranville
Cranberry bog soil, in commercial production, is
a man-made substrate consisting primarily of
sand. I n the root zone of well-established
Massachusetts cranberry bogs, organic matter
makes up less than 3.5% of the soil; silt and clay
combined may account for as much as another
3%; the remaining particles are sand. I n these
mature bogs, the soil is stratified or layered, with
layers of almost pure sand alternating with
organic layers composed of partially
decomposed leaf litter and non-functional roots
(Deubert and Caruso 1989). This layering arises
due to the common cultural practice of applying
sand to the bogs periodically to improve vigor
and control pests. N ewly established or
renovated cranberry bogs have very little
organic matter in the soil - they are virtually all
sand in the root zone.

Cranberry bogs have been established in wetland

and upland (or mineral) soils. In wetland soils,
the underlying material of the bog is peat, and Fig. 1. Soil core profile the alternating layers of
often an iron-containing hardpan. In mineral sand and organic matter found in many
soil bogs, the underlying layer is formed of cranberry farms. Photo courtesy J. Davenport.
compacted clay, compacted silt material such as
glacial till, or compacted topsoil. In all cases the
underlying layer serves to hold water in the bog As mentioned previously, Massachusetts
for flooding practices. The underlying layer also cranberry bog soil is approximately 95% sand,
serves to separate the bog from ground water. defined as consisting of particles varying in size
Well-designed mineral soil bogs have a seco nd from 0.05 to 2.0 mm in diameter. A comparison
sub-layer above the water-confining layer. This of 36 bog soils to the yield on those bogs
layer is composed of organic material for the showed a positive correlation between the
purpose of retaining any pesticides and nutrients percent coarse sand (0.5-2.0 mm) and crop
that move down through the upper sand layer. production. Most likely this is due to improved
drainage and decreased compaction in bogs with
The stratification in the root zone of the higher (70% or more) levels of coarse sand.
cranberry bog has an impact on the movement of When sand is added to cranberry bogs, coarse
water in the bog soil (Fig. 1). I n tilled soils, grained materials are the preferred choice.
organic matter is distributed throughout the soil
profile and water tends to move almost entirely In comparison to most agricultural soils, ideal
in a vertical direction. I n stratified cranberry cranberry soils are extremely acid (low pH). In
soils, water tends to move readily in a horizontal an extensive study of cranberry bog soil pH in
direction within the sand layers. This is of 1960 (Chandler and Demoranville 1961a), the
importance for maintaining soil moisture by average pH was 4.4 (range 3.3 to 5.5). W hen
manipulating the water level in the drainage those sites were re-examined in 1990
ditches of the bog. (DeMoranville 1990) the average soil pH was

11
4.6 (range 3.9 to 5.9). I n both surveys, more all of the CEC is due to organic matter. For this
than 85% of the sites had soil pH between 4 and reason, mineral soil bogs and other sandy bogs
5. T he base saturation of cranberry bog soil (e.g., recently renovated bogs) have little ability
reflects that acid nature - 70% or more of the to hold cations such as potassium, magnesium,
base saturation is hydrogen ions (acid and calcium. E ven well-established bogs with
equivalents). an average of 3.5% organic matter have limited
CEC.
Soil pH tends to be lower in well-established
bogs. In a study of cranberry bog soil chemistry As the only active soil constituent, organic
(Davenport and DeMoranville 1993), pH in matter has a considerable effect on the chemistry
surficial soil from layered (established) bogs had and physics of the cranberry bog soil.
average pH of 4.5, w hile sandy bogs averaged Decomposed organic material absorbs large
5.0 and bogs with 10-20% organic matter quantities of water and slows the flow of water
content (from New Jersey and Washington) through the soil. I n addition to providing sites
averaged 4.0. for holding nutrient elements, the organic matter
also traps residues of organic chemicals applied
The naturally low soil pH in Massachusetts to the bog and supports the growth of soil
cranberry bogs is maintained in part by the microorganisms.
application of ammonium fertilizers and in part
due to low alkalinity in local irrigation water The low organic matter concentration in
sources. As cranberry plants take up the cranberry bog soils in Massachusetts has
ammonium nitrogen from applied fertilizer, advantages and disadvantages when it comes to
hydrogen ions are released into the soil in providing the proper nutritional support for the
exchange. This process acidifies the soil. In a cranberry plants. Because CEC is low, fertilizer
study of the water supplies of cranberry farms cations are poorly held leading to the need for
throughout North America, Massachusetts frequent applications of low rates of fertilizer.
waters were the least alkaline (Hanson et al. However, organic matter also provides nitrogen
2000). As a result, the application of irrigation through its breakdown by s oil microorganisms
water does not affect the naturally low pH of the (mineralization). Wh en cranberry soils have
bogs. high organic matter in the root zone (for
example, the highly decomposed peat soils in
Soils have the ability to hold positively charged Washington), too much nitrogen is often
elements (cations) due to the presence of released, leading to excess vegetative growth of
negative charges on the surface of soil particles. the cranberry plants and poor crops. I n low
This property is reported as cation exchange organic matter soils, the grower can supplement
capacity or CEC. T he negative charges that the limited amount of nitrogen released by
make up CEC are present on clay and on organic adding nitrogen fertilizer.
particles in the soil. In cranberry soil, virtually

12
 Activities on a Cranberry Farm
Hilary A. Sandler
Recent census data indicated that people are (chemigation). S hort (24-48 hr) floods may be
moving from urban areas to more rural areas. held in mid-May for pest management (black-
This is certainly true for the southeastern region headed fireworm and dodder control).
of Massachusetts. M ore people are living in
proximity to working cranberry farms and, Fertilizers. Fertilizers can be applied when the
consequently, have many questions concerning soil temperatures warm to at least 50°F, so
the regular activities relating to cranberry growers may be applying fertilizer any time
production. This chapter describes many of the from mid-May through late August. Depending
management activities that occur on commercial on the vines and yield, applications may be
cranberry farms throughout any given year. The made in the fall. F ertilizer may be applied
activities are presented by season to establish a through the irrigation system, by hand-held
general chronology, but the reader should bear rotary spreaders, ground rigs, or by helicopter.
in mind that some practices may overlap from
one season to another. Planting New Vines. The best window to plant
vines is during the month of May. However,
other factors may push the planting date later
SPRING into the season and perhaps even into the fall.
Newly planted vines require frequent irrigation
Removal of the Winter Flood. The winter (ca. twice per day for several weeks) until new
flood is usually drained from the vine canopy roots are established.
anytime from mid-February through mid-March.
The vines will slowly break dormancy and begin
to grow by mid-April.

Late Water Floods. If growers opt to use this

flooding practice, the water will be pumped onto
the farm by mid-April and will stay on f or at
least 30 da ys (perhaps longer, depending on
location). L ate water floods (Fig. 1) provide
pest management benefits without the use of
chemicals.

Frost Protection. Sprinkler systems are used to

protect emerging buds from frost damage.
Protecting buds from injury may require growers
to run their sprinklers systems from early
morning until just past sunrise. Protecting buds Fig. 1. Section of a cranberry bog with a late
from frost injury usually starts in mid-April. water flood. Photo courtesy B. Lampinen.
Frost alerts traditionally happen into mid-June
but may still occur as late as early July.
SUMMER
Weed Management. Preemergence herbicides
are applied from late March through mid-June. Irrigation. C ranberries require supplemental
Herbicides are typically applied by ground rig water when nature does not provide enough
applicators but newer compounds can be rainfall. Sprinkler systems will be running in the
injected through the irrigation system early morning or late at night to minimize loss

13
due to evaporation. On very hot days, growers
may opt to run the sprinklers during mid-day to
cool the fruit and vines.

Bee Hives. B ees are used to assist in cross-

pollination of cranberry flowers. H oneybee
hives and bumblebee hives may be present on
the farm during June through mid-July.

Fig. 3. Scouting for insects with a sweep net.

Photo courtesy J. Mason.

Harvest. Depending on weather conditions,

Fig. 2. Bee hives on a pallet ready for pollination harvest begins in September and lasts into early
activities. Photo courtesy J. Mason. November. Fruit may be dry harvested and sold
for fresh market (higher dollar value) or
harvested in water and sold as processed fruit.
Scouting. Sweep netting is used to monitor During water harvest, the berries float and are
insect populations from May through August. corralled using floating booms. The berries are
Flowers are counted in June to help time removed from the flood via a conveyor or
fungicide applications. Pheromone traps are set vacuum hose. More than 90% of the cranberries
out by early June and monitored throughout the in Massachusetts are wet harvested. Due to fruit
summer. Berries are inspected July through rot pressure, all wet-harvested berries from
August for cranberry fruitworm eggs. Massachusetts must be sold as processed fruit.
Pesticide Applications. Mo st pesticide Ditch Cleaning. Ditches are needed for moving
applications are made from May through water through the farm system. Growers will
August. T he chemicals are used to prevent clean their ditches by hand or with machines at
serious damage to the crop by various insects various times throughout the season. Mud piles
and fungal pathogens. Mo st chemical can be removed with a sm all ATV or by
applications are made through the irrigation helicopter.
system (chemigation).

WINTER
FALL
Sanding. The preferred method of sand
Frost Protection. As in the spring, growers application is on the ice of a flooded bog during
may need to protect the fruit from frost injury. the winter months (ice sanding). T his prevents
Since fall temperatures can drop early in the vine injury caused by sanding equipment
evening, sprinkler systems may be started well operating on t he bog (dry sanding). W hen the
before midnight in many cases. ice melts, the sand sinks slowly to the surface of
the bog.

14
 Equipment Maintenance and Construction.
Since cranberries are such a sm all industry,
many equipment companies do not cater to the
mechanical needs of cranberry growers.
Growers must retrofit and/or manufacture many
of the machines and much of the equipment that
they use on the farm. Many growers use the
winter months to maintain or construct
equipment.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Sign Posting. Growers are required by state and

Fig. 4. Corralled cranberries in shallow harvest federal law to post signs around their property
flood in Massachusetts. Photo courtesy J. prior to the application of certain pesticides.
Friedrich. Sign posting requirements change periodically.
Contact the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’
Association’s website for current requirements
Winter Flood. T he cranberry plant is dormant (www.cranberries.org).
during the winter. The vines become reddish in
color after harvest and remain that way until late Pumps. C ranberry growers run pumps to
March-early April. Growers maintain a flood on operate their irrigation system at various times
their cranberry farms during the winter months throughout the year. Most pumps are housed in
to prevent winterkill. Winterkill, or winter small sheds near the water resource. The sheds
injury, occurs when the following conditions protect the pump from weather and vandalism
happen: 1) the root zone is frozen; 2) sub- and help to minimize noise.
freezing temperatures prevail day and night;
and/or 3) winds of moderate velocity are Trucks. L arge trucks may drive through
present. On an unflooded bog, the plant would cranberry properties at various times during the
not be able to absorb water through the roots, year, but are especially common during harvest
and transpiration losses increase. The plants and sanding operations.
would dry out as if they were in drought
conditions. Regulations of Pesticide Use and Applicator
Licenses. All pesticides must be tested and
Monitoring for Oxygen Deficiency. Growers
registered for use by the U.S. Environmental
monitor their floods during the winter months to
Protection Agency and the Commonwealth of
assess oxygen levels. D uring the winter, vines
Massachusetts. Commercial users of pesticides
need oxygen to survive even though they are
must be licensed or certified by the
dormant. O xygen is made available through
Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau. Licensed
photosynthesis, a reaction that is driven by
applicators must attend educational programs to
sunlight. O xygen levels can be especially
maintain their certifications or licenses. A ll
critical if the ice on the bog becomes cloudy, or
certified and licensed applicators must report
if significant snowfall on top of the ice limits
their pesticide usage annually to the
sunshine penetration. When the critical level is
Massachusetts Pesticide Bureau.
reached, water is removed from beneath the ice
to allow air to reach the plants.

15
 Cultural Practices in Cranberry Production:
Sanding and Pruning
Carolyn DeMoranville and Hilary A. Sandler
Sanding is a commonly used cultural practice in associated with increased growth, vigor, and
cranberry production in Massachusetts (Cross yield of cranberries. H e then spread sand on
and Demoranville 1969). Growers apply thin wild cranberry vines, thus beginning the first
(1/2 to 2 inch) layers of sand on the surface of cranberry cultivation.
producing cranberry beds at 2- to 5-year
intervals to promote growth, improve Sanding covers the leaf litter (leaf trash) on the
productivity, suppress disease and weeds, and surface of the cranberry bog. T his has several
reduce insect populations. S anding is benefits, including stimulation of organic matter
particularly well suited to the cranberry system. decomposition (nitrogen release and relief of
The layers of sand anchor runners and cover root congestion), suppression of fruit rot fungus
bare wood at the base of uprights (vertical inoculum, and limitation of the habitat of
stems), promoting rooting and the production of cranberry girdler larvae that feed at the base of
new uprights. Mechanical pruning can be used exposed stems (Tomlinson 1937; Cross and
to improve the architecture of the canopy and Demoranville 1978). Uniform applications of
remove runners. Severe pruning and mowing of sand can also suppress dodder germination
the vines may be used to generate cuttings for (Sandler et al. 1997). S anding improves soil
the planting of additional acres. Although drainage and may physically strengthen peat
mechanical pruning can be difficult due to the soils so that mechanical operations on the farm
trailing nature of the cranberry growth habit and are easier.
the potential to remove upright tips bearing
flower buds, it is becoming more popular due to
the high cost of obtaining and transporting sand
(Fig. 1).

Growers can improve the canopy environment

with either sanding or pruning. Although both
practices will give physical improvements such
as increased potential for photosynthesis, better
aeration, and improved vine health, each
practice offers unique benefits and consequences
when compared to the other. These specific
differences are highlighted in the following
discussion.

SANDING Fig. 1. A pplying sand directly on t he vines in

spring. Photo courtesy H. Sandler.
Historically, sanding was probably the first
practice used in cultivating wild cranberry
plants. H enry Hall of Dennis, MA has been The sand layer reduces moisture in the upper
credited with being the first to observe the layer of the soil leading to more rapid warming
beneficial effects of sand on cranberry vines in in the spring and increased release of nitrogen
1816. H e noted that sand blown from nearby from organic matter in the soil, increasing the
dunes that partially covered the vines was potential for growth and productivity without

16
additional fertilizer input. D evelopment of the
plants may also be accelerated. Sand absorbs
and releases more heat than the organic layer
that it covers so that frost danger is less on
sanded beds (temperatures remain 2-3oF higher
on freshly sanded beds if the sand is moist)
(Cross and Demoranville 1969).

Many of the pest management benefits of

sanding are dependent upon the deposition of
uniform layers of sand. R ecent research
(Hunsberger et al. 2006) has shown that when
sanding depth was measured in the spring after
the sand had settled into the vine canopy,
uniform layering was rarely achieved. T he
nonuniform application of sand to the
production surface could explain the variable Fig. 2. Ice sanding on frozen flood waters with
results seen when growers apply sand for pest a sand buggy. Photo courtesy H. Sandler.
management reasons.

Application of Sand. Sand can be applied Particle Size. Sand with few fine particles (fine
directly onto dry vines by ground rigs that ride sand, silt, and clay) gives the best result when
on the vines (dry sanding, Fig. 1) or on rails (rail sanding a bog. These fine particles are also the
sanding), applied during winter on top of frozen most likely to remain suspended in water and
flood waters (ice sanding, Fig. 2), sprayed onto move off of the target area during barge sanding
the vines via sand-water slurry (hydrosanding) or hydrosanding. Coarse sand with particle sizes
or delivered via a floating barge in shallow flood between 0.5 and 2 mm promotes proper drainage
waters (barge sanding) during the spring or fall. and increases root growth. H owever, gravel
Yield impacts are variable depending on method should be avoided and the screening of sand
of application, cranberry variety, and thickness prior to application is recommended. A n ideal
of the sand layer (Strik and Poole 1995; bog sand has >70% of particles in the coarse
Davenport and Schiffhauer 2000). range and less than 3% silt or clay.
When choosing a method, growers should weigh How Much Sand to Use? The amount of sand
several factors, including the following. Ice may to be applied depends on how recently the bog
not be available when a farm needs sanding. has been sanded and the sanding method chosen.
Barge sanding may not anchor runners well. If the farm has been sanded recently, a layer 0.5-
Hydrosanding may cause mechanical damage, 0.75 inches thick is recommended if ice sanding
especially if the vines are not dormant at the or dry sanding but more should be used if the
time of sanding. Sanding on the vines (dry last sanding was 4 or more years ago. T he
sanding) is the least desirable choice as damage exception is barge sanding. Wh en barge
to the bog and crop reduction in the year of sanding, at least 1 inch should be applied. To
sanding may result even if the sanding is done apply 1 inch of sand to one acre, 134 cubic yards
when the vines are dormant. Rail sanding may of sand is required. In 2007, a cubic yard of
lessen the impact of dry sanding. S anding is sand could be purchased for approximately $12.
considered important enough that many growers
believe that even damaging methods are Applying layers greater than 1-inch thick can
preferable to no sanding. cause significant yield loss as seen in recent
studies by Lampinen and DeMoranville
(Lampinen and DeMoranville 2003). Applying

17
a 2-inch layer is considered extreme. T he the production of upright stems that will then
repeated application of sand layers on deep peat bear the crop. A t minimum, new plantings
beds can cause compression of the peat and should be sanded after the second season and
uneven settling of the bog. Applying extra sand may need to be sanded after the first season as
to low areas on deep-peat beds only raises the well, depending on how much growth has
soil surface temporarily and may actually be occurred.
associated with sinking of the soil later.

Possible Negative Aspects of Sanding:

Some Positive Benefits of Sanding:
1. Heavy sanding on d eep peat-based beds
1. Improved plant growth due to increased can lead to uneven settling of the subsoil
breakdown of soil organic matter, (compression), leaving the bed out of grade
stimulation of root growth, and improved or even leading to ‘sink holes’.
aeration in the root zone. Covering the bare
2. Sanding directly on t he vines almost
wood at the base of upright stems stimulates
always leads to reduced crop in the year of
basal shooting and new uprights are formed.
sanding and if sand is one inch or thicker,
This stimulation is similar to the
the yield suppression may continue in the
physiological response to mechanical
year following sanding.
pruning.
3. Sanding on the ice increases the chances
2. Sanding is important in the management
for leaf drop in the following spring. Water
of cranberry girdler. The girdler insect
must be removed from beneath the ice as
larvae live in the trash (leaf litter) on the bog
soon as possible after sanding.
floor. Sanding buries this trash layer and
insect pupae. H owever, sanding must be 4. Herbicides must be used with caution on
done in the fall or winter to be effective sanded beds. C asoron applied prior to
against this insect. sanding or immediately after sanding will
damage the cranberry plants. High rates of
3. Sanding can suppress germination of the
iron sulfate may also damage recently
seeds of the parasitic weed, dodder (Sandler
sanded beds. Devrinol may be used after
et al. 1997). To be effective, the sand layer
sanding but must be watered in
must be uniform and at least 1-inch thick.
immediately. O therwise, light reflected
4. It has been often observed that sanded from the sand may accelerate herbicide
beds are less likely to suffer spring frost degradation and limit efficacy.
damage compared to unsanded beds.
Compared to vines with a thick trash layer,
temperatures on a newly sanded farm will
be at least 2oF higher in the spring if the PRUNING
sand is wet.
Cranberries are pruned to remove excess runners
and old, long upright shoots and to facilitate the
use of dry harvesting equipment. In fact, some
New Plantings. Sanding is of particular modern dry harvesters, notably the Furford
importance in the management of new plantings. Harvester, combine pruning action with
Cranberries are traditionally planted as unrooted harvesting. When runners are present and
cuttings and then heavily fertilized to promote upright stands become dense, light penetration to
the production of runners (trailing stems) from the individual plants is limited. This light
axillary buds on t he stems. A s these runners limitation leads to declines in yield either due to
cover the soil surface, thin layers (0.5 inch) of decreased flower bud initiation or limitations on
sand are applied to anchor the runners, pollinators reaching the flowers to set fruit or
promoting rooting at the nodes and leading to both. A dense canopy also provides a moist

18
micro-climate for the growth and spread of fruit pruned and unpruned plots had heavy vines, the
rot disease fungi (Caruso and Ramsdell 1995). rest had very heavy vine cover. Of the 6 pruned
plots, one was pruned to the standard of that
time, removing most runners and many uprights
(approx. 3.75 ton/A); two plots were pruned less
severely (most runners and few uprights
removed - approx. 2.75 ton/A); two plots were
pruned lightly leaving many runners (approx. 2
ton/A) and; the last plot was pruned severely,
removing all runners and most of the uprights
(over 10,000 lb/A).

In the year after pruning, the average crop in the

pruned plots was 10% less than in the check
plots. H owever, in the second year after
pruning, crop in the pruned plots was 45%
higher on average than that in the controls. In
fact, even the severely pruned plot had higher
Fig. 3. Pruning vines in the spring. Photo yield than the average of the controls, although
courtesy S. Jordan. lower than that in the other pruning treatments.
Crop increase due to pruning was most dramatic
where the vines were initially very heavy (62%
Pruning is becoming more important to increase in year 2). H ighest yields were in the
Massachusetts growers as local sand (available plots where 2-4 ton/A of vines were removed.
on-site) resources decrease and the cost of sand
increases. Research is being conducted by
UMass Cranberry Station staff to investigate the
incorporation of low-cost practices, such as
pruning, to improve the canopy environment and
fruit quality, and reduce pesticide use. Research
conducted by I. Demoranville in Massachusetts
during the 1960's demonstrated equivalent yields
with either very light (approx. 0.5 ton/A)
pruning every year or sanding every three years.
In a replicated experiment conducted from 2006-
2007, pruning had less impact on yield
compared to sanding, increased light penetration
into the plant canopy and was associated with
increased fruit color (anthocyanin) (Suhayda et
al. 2007).
Fig. 4. Grower-manufactured pruner with knives
attached to a rotating head in front combined
Historical Pruning Research. Most studies of with a hydraulic rake attachment in the rear.
cranberry pruning were conducted in New Photo courtesy H. Sandler.
Jersey, where excessive growth is often a
problem due to the deep muck base beneath the
bogs. F rom 1915-1917, Franklin Chambers In 1954, Charles Doehlert conducted another test
(Chambers 1918) conducted pruning of pruning at Whitesbog in New Jersey in which
experiments on Whitesbog (New Jersey) in he compared removing runners only (this was
which he set up a grid of 12 plots, 6 of which done with a hand-clipper to insure no removal of
were pruned in December of 1915. Half of the uprights) to pruning out 1-inch strips 8 inches or

19
4 inches apart or 2-inch strips 8 inches apart Strik and Poole looked at date of pruning (2
(Doehlert 1955). Pruning was done in the spring months post-harvest vs. spring) and pruning
and that fall, he assessed upright density and severity (none, light, moderate, heavy) in
flower buds for the following year. His research Oregon (Strik and Poole 1991). They found that
showed that severe pruning decreased upright time of pruning had no effect on subsequent
density and flower bud pr oduction by growth and production. Severe pruning (1.5-2.5
approximately 10%. ton/A removed) was associated with reduced
crops due to the removal of uprights bearing
In observations over many years in New Jersey, flower buds during the pruning. Pruning in two
Phil Marucci noted that while there were at least consecutive years intensified the effects. E ven
as many flowers per unit area in dense vine light pruning two years in a row led to reduced
stands, yield was greater where the vines were yield (no significant reduction after only one
less dense (Marucci 1987). He also noted that in year of pruning). In one of two years, fruit set
dense vines, the percent of flowering uprights was improved by pruning, however, this did not
bearing no fruit was as much as t hree times make up f or the fewer flowing uprights and
greater than in nearby areas where vines were flowers in the severely pruned treatments. Fruit
less dense and shorter. He attributed this in part from unpruned plots had the least anthocyanin
to the inability of pollinating bees to reach (red pigment) of all treatments, supporting the
flowers buried in a dense canopy. He suggested observation that light penetration to the fruit is
that a bog should be pruned when, in a year with important in color development.
no frost and normal bee activity, greater than
10% of flowering uprights fail to set even one After applying pruning treatments for two years
berry. I n an experiment using a Furford in a row, Strik and Poole left all treatments
Harvester as a pruning device (Fig. 5), Marucci unpruned the third year. In that year, plots
found that after a single pass with the Furford where light pruning had been done previously
(during harvest), 14% of flowering uprights bore had the greatest yields compared to no pruning
no fruit the following year. H owever, when a or severe pruning (Strik and Poole 1992). In the
second, strictly pruning, pass was made with the light pruning treatment, approximately 1 t on/A
Furford after harvest, the percent of barren of prunings were removed. This treatment, in
flowering uprights dropped to 8%. alternate years, was then recommended for
Oregon cranberry production.

Timing and Methodology. Cranberry vines are

pruned during or just after harvest or early in the
spring. Cranberry pruning machines are usually
a series of vertical knife blades set at an angle to
the direction of movement and spaced at 1-foot
intervals on a rotating frame. This device is
mounted on a buggy or small tractor (Fig. 3 and
4). A water picker modified to carry the pruning
head has been used in Oregon. Such pruners
move through the bog, removing runners and
some uprights. The severity of pruning relates
to knife spacing and speed of operation.

Alternatives to these pruning machines are

Fig. 5. Dry harvesting with a Furford picking mechanical harvesters such as the Western
machine that prunes vines as well as picks fruit. Picker and Furford Harvester that prune during
Photo courtesy B. Wick. dry harvest (Fig. 5) or knife rakes (hand pruning;
Fig. 6). T hese harvesters can be used for
pruning after water harvest or for additional

20
pruning of dry harvest beds by making a second
pass across the bog.
Some Positive Benefits of Pruning:
Regardless of pruner used, severe pruning or
mowing greatly reduces yield. I n some 1. Flowers are more accessible to bees, fruit
instances, even light pruning can cause some set percent may improve. Flower longevity
reduction in yield. H owever, Strik and Poole may also be extended in a more open
(1992) showed that light pruning (up to 1 ton/A) canopy.
in alternate years resulted in larger cumulative 2. Light exposure in the canopy increases
yield compared to no pruning or severe pruning, promoting fruit color and flower bud
even if crop was reduced in the year of the light development.
pruning. In our current research project, pruning
3. Fruit rot disease pressure may be reduced.
at 0.25 t on/A increased yield in the year of
pruning in replicated plots, and at grower sites, 4. Harvesting is more efficient when runners
light pruning was most often associated with are minimal. This is especially true for dry
increased or unaffected cumulative yield in the harvesting.
two years following pruning (DeMoranville
5. Prunings may be used to plant new areas
2007).
or fill in thin spots or may be sold for
planting elsewhere.

Possible Negative Aspects of Pruning:

1. Mechanical damage may occur.
2. Removal of more than 1 t on/A of
clippings may reduce crop in the following
year. Mo re severe pruning is associated
with crop reduction of at least 10%.
However, crop reduction may be
compensated for by increased production in
the second year.
Fig. 6. Farmer worker using a h and-held knife
rake that can prune lightly or heavily. P hoto
courtesy H. Sandler.

21
 Harvesting and Handling Cranberries
Carolyn DeMoranville
Nationally, cranberries are harvested from early bacteria associated with gum disease (Weiss et
September until early November. The exact al. 2002) and stomach ulcers (Burger et al. 2002)
harvest dates vary by region, weather conditions, from forming biofilms associated with these
and cultivar being harvested. In addition, some disorders. Cranberry PACs are present early in
consideration must be given to whether the fruit fruit ripening prior to full color development.
will be sold in the fresh market, used in white
juice products, or used for other processing. Color development in cranberry fruit varies with
With the exception of white harvest, the fruit are climactic conditions and so differs from year to
harvested at full maturity with good color year and from region to region (Sapers et al.
(anthocyanin content) but prior to the fruit 1986). I n addition, various cultivars develop
becoming overripe. Timing of harvest is color at different rates. All of these are
important for fresh-market fruit so that the considerations when a g rower plans a h arvest
berries are sufficiently red but retain good schedule. If the fruit is being harvested for the
storage quality, while fruit for the processed fresh market, ability to develop further color in
market ideally has maximum color. storage is also of importance and may vary with
cultivar and developmental stage at harvest. Of
Fruit Development. During fruit development, the four major cultivars grown in Massachusetts,
acids in the cranberry reach a m aximum level Ben Lear and Early Black develop color earliest
prior to the appearance of the red color. The (by early to mid-September), Stevens develop
predominant acids in cranberry fruit are (in full color from mid- to late-season (early to mid-
descending order) citric, quinic, malic, and October) and Howes are the latest (mid-
benzoic. These acids are the source of the tart October). F actors that may slow color
and astringent flavors of cranberry. As the fruit development are warm temperatures,
color develops, the sugar content of the fruit particularly at night, and poor penetration of
increases. At full maturity, the cranberry fruit is light to the berries (thick canopy).
88% water, 4.2% sugar, and 2.4% acid. The
remaining constituents of the mature fruit are Harvesting of Cranberries. There are two
pectins, other structural carbohydrates and basic methods of harvesting cranberries. The
minerals (Fellers and Esselen 1955) first, dry harvesting, dates back to the origins of
cranberry cultivation. The second system, flood
Cranberry marketing companies produce ‘no or water harvesting dates to the 1920’s and was
color added’ products, so the color at harvest is first mechanized in the mid-1950’s (Dana 1990;
of great importance in processed berries. Since, Eck 1990).
the primary pigments, anthocyanins, are
antioxidants, color also has implications in the
health benefits of cranberry products (Reed DRY HARVESTING
2002; Neto 2007). However, the most studied
health benefit associated with cranberry is The earliest harvesting was done on dry beds by
related to proanthocyanidins in the berries. workers who hand picked the fruit into wooden
boxes and barrels. B y the turn of the century,
Cranberries contain unique proanthocyanidins wooden rakes were being manufactured for
(PACs) that can prevent the adhesion of certain hand-scooping cranberries. T hese hand scoops,
of bacteria, in particular E. coli, associated with consisting of wooden or metal tines or teeth set
urinary tract infections to the urinary tract wall 0.5 inches apart in a wooden catch frame,
(Howell et al. 2001). The anti-adhesion became the industry standard by the 1930’s. In
properties of cranberry may also inhibit the modern cranberry production, hand scoops are

22
only occasionally used to harvest bed edges or without increased loss of fruit during harvest.
experiment plots. Furfords run faster and pick a wider path than
other dry harvesters (Fig. 1). They also contain
a pruning blade.

Due to climactic conditions on the East Coast,

all berries to be sold on the fresh market must be
dry harvested. H owever, dry harvesting has
fallen from favor for process-market fruit due to
the general inefficiency of the machines. I t is
common for dry harvesters to leave up to 20% of
the fruit on the bog. The fruit that is harvested
often sustains bruising during the dry harvest
operation. Finally, dry harvesting is quite labor-
intensive. E ach Furford harvester covers only
one to two acres per day; other models cover
even less ground.

Fig. 1. Furford dry harvester. Photo courtesy B.

Wick.

Mechanized dry harvesters have been used since

the 1920’s, although they did not come into
general use until the late 1940’s. The first
commercial picking machine was sold by W. B.
Mathewson. A s did all the dry harvesters to
follow, this machine was based on mechanizing
a cranberry scoop and relied on t ines that
stripped the fruit from the vines. I n the
Mathewson design, sets of tines were mounted
on a revolving cylinder. In the late 1940’s, the
Western Picker was introduced in Oregon. This
Fig. 2. Examples of self-propelled dry harvesters
machine differed from previous harvesters in
used to pick cranberry fruit. Photo courtesy
that the tines were fixed in position (passive
www.FAO.com.
detachment system) and a pruning blade was
part of the design so that harvesting and pruning
were accomplished simultaneously.
The fruit is collected in boxes or bags (Fig. 2
and 3) that must be removed from the bog and
The Darlington Picker was introduced in the late
transferred into bulk containers. These
1950’s. This machine was lightweight and used
containers are taken on trucks to a r eceiving
a rotating tine system. H owever, both the
station for sorting and storage. I n addition to
Western and Darlington Pickers had the
concerns regarding bruising of fruit by
disadvantage of picking only a 2-foot width with
mechanical pickers, care must be taken not to
each pass, limiting harvest capacity to no more
bruise fruit when dumping it into bulk
than one acre per day. In the 1960’s, the Furford
containers. In many dry harvest operations in
Harvester (Fig. 1) was developed on the West
Massachusetts, the bulk containers or bins are
Coast and has moved into general use for dry
brought out onto the bog and filled from harvest
harvesting in Massachusetts. Based on
bags collected from the pickers. Periodically
modifications to the fixed-head harvesters, the
during the day, the bulk containers are moved to
picking head width is increased on a Furford

23
waiting flat-bed trucks by attaching straps to a reduced. W ater harvest has the additional
rig carried by a helicopter. The bins are then advantage of not being weather-sensitive. Water
airlifted to the truck. harvest can be done even on rainy days, which is
not possible with dry-harvesting equipment.
If pruner/pickers are used, the grower may
rough-screen the crop prior to delivery to Early water harvesting in Wisconsin was done
remove excess prunings. Fruit is then delivered using hand rakes with long handles. A shallow
to packing houses where it is stored in common (~ 6 inch) flood was put on t he bog and the
storage until cleaning and separating operations raked fruit was easily removed. F ew berries
are carried out prior to pack-out. Fruit were left behind as they were floating above the
containing chaff (leaf litter and stems), delivered surface of the soil. Vine injury was also
in bulk bins, is rough screened into smaller (1/3 minimized. In the 1940’s and 1950’s, the
barrel) boxes prior to storage. Cranberries may process was mechanized by mounting a rake
be held for two to three months in common with either fixed or retracting tines on the front
storage if fall temperatures are not too warm. of a s elf-propelled machine that also had a
Under refrigeration, they may store well for conveyor to move the fruit into waiting float-
several months. B ruising, physiological boats. F ruit harvested by these methods was
breakdown, and storage rots (due to fungal dried and sold on the fresh market. This was
pathogens introduced in the field) can all limit possible in Wisconsin due to ease of drying in a
storage longevity. less humid climate and conditions that did not
promote fungal growth in the harvested fruit.

Fig. 3. Example of a tractor-driven dry harvester

used to pick cranberry fruit. Photo courtesy D. Fig. 4. Wet harvester (water reel) used to
Bragg, www.dbe.ca. harvest cranberries in shallow floods. Photo
courtesy F. Caruso.

WATER HARVESTING
In the early 1950’s, the current industry standard
Water harvesting overcomes two of the water harvester was introduced. This machine is
problems associated with dry harvesting: known as the water reel or beater and consists of
uncollected fruit and high labor costs associated horizontal bars mounted on a shaft that rotates as
with the slower dry harvest process. W ater the machine moves forward. The horizontal
harvesting takes advantage of the buoyancy of bars are held one or two inches above the
cranberries -- the fruit float in the flood water surface of the bog so that they hit against the
and are accessible to the harvester (Fig. 4-6). A upright shoots, causing the fruit pedicels to
single water harvester covers many more acres break and releasing the buoyant fruit to float to
than a dry harvester in a day, so the crop is the surface. This type of rough handling further
brought in more quickly and labor costs are

24
precludes the possibility of drying these fruit and debris through the grate into a trash truck, where
selling them fresh. the trash is de-watered (the water is diverted
back onto the bog). T he fruit roll down the
Wet-raked fruit are deposited into containers as surface of the grate into the waiting delivery
part of the raking operation. However, fruit trailer.
removed by the water reel is left floating in a
shallow layer (five to six inches) of water. In Water-harvested berries are delivered in trailer
order to remove this fruit from the bog, the trucks holding up to 500 barrels to receiving
water level is increased until the fruit float free stations where they are washed and placed into
of the tips of the vines. The fruit is then bulk containers for freezing. The frozen berries
gathered to one edge of the vine using corralling are used for subsequent processing. F ruit that
booms and taking advantage of the prevailing has been bruised by water reels and sits in warm
wind. Once the fruit is corralled at the bog edge, harvest flood water has reduced storage life and
it is lifted into trucks using conveyors or is poorly suited for fresh fruit.
hydraulic pumps. As the fruit is sent to the truck
in the conveyor system, trash (leaves and stems) Storage quality, however, is of some importance
is removed by passing the harvested mass over a to modern cranberry processing operations.
coarse grating. T he berries and small debris Fruit is sent to commercial freezers in bulk
pass thought the grating onto an inclined belt, containers so large that the center berries may
down which the berries roll, while the debris not freeze for up to one month. During that time
clings to the belt and is carried away, often to a they are subject to the same post-harvest
second, smaller truck. problems encountered with fresh fruit.

Fig. 6. Wat er reel harvesting berries in a

Fig. 5. Wet harvester design called the Ruby shallow flood. Photo courtesy F. Caruso.
Slipper, which is rear-mounted. Note the yellow
paddles instead of the metal reel seen above.
Photo courtesy B. Wick. NOTE: For further information on the health
benefits of cranberries, including links to
research on that subject, see the web page of the
Alternately, a low-pressure berry pump lifts the Cranberry Institute.
fruit mass through a large-bore hose onto an http://www.cranberryinstitute.org.
inclined grate. A second pump feeds water to
cleaning nozzles. T he washing spray pushes

25
 Renovating Cranberry Farms
Hilary A. Sandler

Traditionally, cranberry vines have been planted between 1 t o 2 t on per acre, depending on c ost
into a prepared area with a l ife expectancy and availability. Napropamide (Devrinol) is the
measured in decades. However, with the recommended preemergence herbicide for new
development of new varieties and increased plantings (DeMoranville et al. 2001). The
pressure on a shrinking profit margin, growers substantial financial and time investment
are re-thinking this conventional approach associated with the renovation of the bed and
regarding their expectation for the longevity of a establishment of the new vines mandates that the
vine’s productivity. A t present, traditional grower maximize vine colonization and
renovation (replanting) is a costly procedure; minimize the effects of weed competition.
however research efforts by UMass and
individual growers are focusing on i nnovative
techniques that are much more economical, such
as mowing and rototilling.

Why Renovate? Over the course of time,

conditions may arise on t he bog that become
severe enough to necessitate renovation of the
bog. Examples would include significant weed
infestations, invasion by nonproductive
(mongrel) vines, and significant differences in
grade (which makes flooding difficult).
Recently, interest in renovating in order to
replant with new vigorous hybrid varieties has
become a reason motivating growers to take the
next step.

Traditional Approach. The establishment of a

new planting or renovation and its associated
activities are among the most expensive
operations performed by cranberry growers.
The actual cost of a complete renovation project,
depending on access to local materials,
equipment, and labor, can range from $10,000
per acre to $25,000 per acre (L. Reno, pers.
comm.). T ypical activities include removal of
existing vines by bulldozer (Fig. 1), laser Fig. 1. (Top) Scraping and removing established
leveling of the bog surface, addition of a deep vines. (Bottom) Applying a thick uniform layer
sand layer approximately 4 t o 8 i nches, of sand prior to planting. Photos courtesy H.
fumigation, repairing or replacing irrigation Sandler.
systems, purchasing and planting of new vines,
and the application of fertilizers and herbicides
(DeMoranville et al. 1996b; DeMoranville et al. Choices must be made regarding planting
2001). Renovated areas may be fumigated (e.g., density, nutrient management, and pest
with Basamid or metham (Vapam) prior to management when establishing the new vines.
planting. Vines are typically planted at densities A recent study (using the cultivar Stevens)

26
suggested that the most cost-effective production approach and is quite effective for propagating
scheme for establishing a new bog is to plant established varieties. U se of unrooted cuttings
vines at a low density (~ 1 ton per A), use allows growers to mow or prune established
moderate rates of nitrogen (~50 lb N per A), and plantings, collect the vines, transport them to the
apply a yearly application of Devrinol for weed new area and scatter the cuttings. V ines are
control (Sandler et al. 2004a). This combination available for purchase (ca. $1,000-2,500 per ton,
efficiently produced optimal vine coverage, depending on v ariety) but use of one’s own
reduced weed biomass by 85% compared to vines saves money.
untreated plots, and gave the best weed control
per dollar spent. This study gives a good In comparison, the new hybrid varieties from
guideline for renovating or establishing a new Rutgers University breeding program are being
cranberry farm, but ultimately growers must rely propagated and sold as rooted plugs (Fig. 3 and
on their own experience and resources when 4). Plugs are more expensive but since the vines
making renovation and planting decisions. already have roots when they are placed in the
ground, their survival and colonization rates are
high. In addition, the use of plugs greatly
reduces the introduction of weeds with the vine
material and thus, greatly reduces the labor and
material inputs needed to manage weeds in the
first few years. P lugs are planted at 1-foot
intervals (ca. 45,000-50,000 plugs per acre at a
cost of $0.25 per plug).

Fig. 3. Propagating rooted cuttings in the

greenhouse. Photo courtesy C. DeMoranville.

Site Preparation and Establishment. M any

Fig. 2. (Top) Scattering unrooted cuttings. choices and decisions are involved in the
(Bottom) Disking in unrooted cuttings. P hotos preparation of the cranberry farm for renovation
courtesy D. Cannon. and planting and no s ingle list fits every
situation. Growers must decide how to deal with
the existing plant material, both vines and
Planting Material. V ines can be planted as weeds. If weed pressure is the main reason for
long (12-18 inches) unrooted cuttings or as small renovation, growers may consider the use of
rooted plugs. U nrooted cuttings are uniformly chemicals to minimize the chance for re-
scattered on the ground and then disked into the infestation. Mo st farmers use laser leveling to
ground (Fig. 2). This has been the conventional ensure the evenness of the grade of the planting

27
surface. Sand must be obtained and transported Benefits to Renovation
to the site and distributed onto the surface.
Conventionally, growers apply a thick layer of Opportunity to upgrade irrigation system
sand (ca. 6 inches), but recently growers are and bog drainage.
exploring the use of thinner sand layers or no Re-grade farm to increase water use
sand. Labor is needed to scatter the vines or efficiency.
plant the plugs. Mo st growers take the
Increase production.
opportunity during renovation to reconfigure
and/or upgrade the bog irrigation system and Square edges to improve overall farm
address any drainage issues. efficiency.
Reduce weed pressure.

Considerations when Renovating

Buy vines from a known reputable source.
Plant at a r easonable density with proper
fertilization to ensure good colonization.
Maintain proper irrigation of newly planted
vines.
Scout vines for signs of pest damage.
Manage weeds in the very beginning as
Fig. 4. Planting rooted plugs with a modified much as possible.
strawberry planter. Photo courtesy H. Sandler. Stabilize ditches to minimize erosion until
vines have established.
Fertilizers are used to stimulate initial growth of Apply a light coating of sand (0.25-0.5 inch)
the vines. A t planting, phosphorus fertilizer is in the first (and/or perhaps the second)
added to encourage good rooting. I n the first winter.
year, vines are fertilized frequently with nitrogen
to promote runner growth. R unner growth is
needed to enable vines to colonize the surface.
Preemergence herbicides can be used once root
growth has started (usually 3 weeks). Irrigation
in the first month is critical; it is not unusual for
plants to need irrigation at least twice per day
until the roots are established.

28
 Influence of Weather on Cranberry Production
Carolyn DeMoranville and Frank Caruso

This section describes some of the climactic activity, particularly at key developmental
factors that play a role in cranberry crop stages. C ross (1987) explained the relationship
development and fruit quality. The main focus between yield and previous year sunshine by
here will be on the effects of temperature, noting that sunshine in May promoted strong
sunshine (intensity and daylength), and rainfall production of vegetative uprights that later in the
on crop production and quality. Information on season would set fruit buds for the following
cold tolerance and winter hardiness is discussed year’s crop. S unshine in the other three
elsewhere. important months would promote the initiation
and growth of these buds. August and
H.J. Franklin and C.E. Cross studied these September would be of particular importance
factors and published their findings and since fruit development for the current crop
observations in the 1940’s (Franklin et al. 1943; would be competing for photosynthetic
Franklin and Stevens 1946; Franklin and Cross resources with following-year bud development.
1948). Wh ile we can expect many of the
weather impacts on cranberry production to An examination of Massachusetts crop records
remain unchanged, changes in cultural practices shows that of the 12 highest crops in history,
could be expected to affect some aspects of the three were associated with less than average
interaction between weather and cranberry total sunshine during the previous year.
production. During the 1980s, I. Demoranville Obviously, sunshine alone does not guarantee a
studied the Franklin and Cross weather large crop in the following year. H owever,
relationships and recorded observations of abundant sunshine and strong buds for the
changes brought about by changing cultural following season are positive factors. This may
practices (Cross 1987; DeMoranville et al. be especially important if late water is to be held
1997). Degaetano and Shulman examined the the following spring since this practice can be
size of New Jersey cranberry crops from 1906 associated with depletion of photosynthetic
into the 1980’s in relation to temperature, reserves (carbohydrates).
rainfall, sunlight hours, and several other
weather factors (Degaetano and Shulman 1987). Franklin and Cross maintained that sunshine,
They found that some relationships differed especially late in the year prior to the crop and
depending on w hich half of the period they during the winter of the crop year, was critical
studied. Their findings regarding the second for the sizing of the fruit the following year.
half of the study period are included here. This again could relate to the production of
strong flower buds. O ne of the factors that
determine berry size is the production of seeds,
FRUIT DEVELOPMENT, SIZE, AND each of which after pollination, is formed from a
YIELD fertilized ovule in the flower base (ovary).
Strong flower buds might be expected to have
Sunshine. Year prior to the crop: B ased on a numerous viable ovules in each flower,
review of crop records, Franklin proposed that increasing the potential for the development of
total sunshine in the year prior to the crop was sufficient numbers of seeds to result in large
positively correlated with high yields. This was berries.
due to the positive effect of abundant sunshine
in the months of May, August, September, and When sunshine for May, August, September,
November. Man y effects of sunshine might be and November in the year prior to the crop was
explained by an increase in photosynthetic reviewed for the crop years from 1984 to 1995,

29
the positive correlation between sunshine and oxygen deficiency injury, previously thought to
large berries was confirmed. In five of those be induced by lack of light penetration through
years, Early Black berries were undersized and the winter flood. H owever, recent research by
sunshine was below normal; while in five other Vanden Heuvel and Roper (2006) indicated that
years, the Early Black fruit were average size or winter sunlight was not important in preventing
larger and sunshine was above normal. injury to the plants (shown by covering the vines
with black cloth) and that oxygen deficiency
Year of the crop: One of Franklin’s observations may not be as important as previously believed.
was that a large crop never followed a February
in which the hours of sunshine were 150 hours
or less. If we examine the data in Table 1 for the Table 2. Cranberry crops following
years of his study, it is easy to understand why February sunshine of 150 hours or less, 1960
he made that statement. Sunshine deficit in - 2000.
February was associated with crop reduction that
fall in 10 out of 12 instances. February Sunshine Production (bbls)
Year Hours Same yr 5-yr Ave.

Table 1. C ranberry crops following 1989 99 1,815,000 1,535,000

1999 97* 1,875,000 1,848,200
February sunshine of 150 hours or less
1969 119 755,000 679,000
(adapted from Franklin and Cross, 1948). 1973 131 901,000 853,000
1997 140 2,100,000 1,806,000
February Sunshine Production (bbls) 1982 142 1,278,000 1,098,000
Year Hours Same yr 5-yr Ave. 1984 145 1,663,000 1,227,000
1998 145 1,875,000 1,849,200
1922 114 337,000 368,000
1938 114 325,000 402,000 *Record low
1927 118 385,000 402,000
1926 126 438,000 393,000
1935 132 332,000 424,000
1939 135 490,000 472,000 In New Jersey, sunlight hours in May and June
1932 137 415,000 426,000 of the crop year were positively correlated with
1907 141 310,000 325,000 yield. I t was believed that this was due to
1911 141 298,000 381,000 increased photosynthesis that led to good supply
1920 143 309,000 394,000 of carbohydrates for fruit development and good
1916 144 364,000 373,000 pollination conditions (cranberry bloom in New
1900 146 200,000 241,000 Jersey occurs by mid-June).

Temperature. The geographic range for

To see if the relationship holds for the recent commercial cranberry growing has long been
past, we can look at the years from 1960 to 2000 considered to be limited to areas with moderate
(Table 2). We find that in all of these modern summer temperatures (i.e., no warmer than those
cases, crops were above average despite of New Jersey). H owever, cool summer
sunshine of less than 150 hours. This is a prime temperatures could lead to an extended bloom
example of how a change in cultural practices period and slow fruit development, which along
has changed a weather relationship to cranberry with daylength constraints, may determine the
cropping. C ertainly, winter management of northern limit for cranberry production. A s of
cranberries in Massachusetts has changed since 1985, commercial cranberry growing areas of
Franklin’s day -- rather than leaving the flood in North America were defined by the isotherm for
place from December until spring, modern a July daily average maximum temperature of
growers remove flood water from beneath 85°F (Pilcher 1985).
winter ice and often change the flood water mid-
winter. These practices were designed to avoid

30
Year prior to the crop: Warm temperatures in Cross (1987) noted that high temperatures and
May and June were associated with high yield high humidity in late May and June were
the following year in New Jersey, most likely associated with the production of very lush and
due to a stimulation in the growth of vegetative tender new foliage. When such growth was
uprights that were likely to set flower buds for subjected to bright sun, high temperatures, and
the following season. This complements the moderate to strong winds, new growth and
finding of Franklin for the need for adequate flowers were subject to blast (burning of the
sunshine in the spring prior to the crop to tissue). In 1997, some growers in Massachusetts
promote strong vegetative uprights. reported blast of new growth and flowers after
two days in June had temperatures over 90°F
In New Jersey, warm temperatures in October (following two weeks in the 50-62°F range).
and November were correlated with greater This damage is similar to scald damage to fruit
crops the following year. D egaetano and later in the summer and can be especially severe
Shulman (1987) theorized that stronger buds if the bog soil is dry. U nder these conditions,
developed during warm falls. H owever, warm the plants lose moisture through transpiration
falls followed by quickly declining temperatures faster than they can replace it through uptake by
in early winter may have a negative impact due the roots. High temperatures in these months
to cold injury in poorly acclimated buds (not were also a n egative factor in New Jersey
fully winter hardy). The 2002 and 2007 (Degaetano and Shulman 1987).
Massachusetts crops can be used as illustrations.
In both years, the temperatures were just above Franklin concluded that high temperatures in
the 30-year average in the previous October but July were damaging to the crop. He wrote, “The
4ºF above average in November and 6ºF above harmful effect of high temperatures in July is
average in December. The following crops were probably due to the burning (blasting) of flowers
among the five poorest in Massachusetts for the and small berries that occurs rather commonly
past 20 years. on the bogs in hot weather” (Franklin and
Stevens 1946). Degaetano and Shulman (1987)
Cold temperature in early winter may also be a found that hot summers were a negative factor in
negative factor for cranberry production even New Jersey as w ell, due to blast and scald
when fall temperatures are near normal. P oor injury. Ma ssachusetts records show that
crop years (3 of the 7 worst in the last 20 years) between 1925 and 1970 there were 10 years
in Massachusetts were associated with prior when July temperatures averaged from 1 t o
December temperatures that were four or more 4.6°F above normal; all crops in those years
degrees below normal. The 1990 crop is a good were average to small. However, during the
illustration, when December 1989 averaged period between 1971 and 1997, there were 10
more than 10 d egrees below normal and the years with July temperatures averaging 1°F or
1990 crop was 500,000 barrels less than the more above normal and all but one of the crops
1989 crop, making it one of the five poorest in those years were large. The exception was
crops for the past 20 years. 1975 when the crop was severely reduced by
scald in August. This shows the value of
Year of the crop: Many of Franklin’s and sprinkler systems for cooling the bog and
Degaetano and Shulman’s observations preventing blast and scald.
regarding temperature effects in the crop year
relate to frost damage (negative effect of low In 1992 and 1993, the development of cranberry
temperatures in April and May) and heat stress fruit (increase in weight during the season) was
damage (negative effects of high temperatures in studied in five states (DeMoranville et al.
May through August). In modern times, most of 1996a). T he rate of fruit sizing differed from
these effects are overcome by proper irrigation state to state. In Wisconsin, where the growing
management. season is short, the fruit developed at a m ore
rapid rate than in the Pacific Northwest where
the season is milder but longer. After studying

31
temperature and sunshine data, the research team in ‘healing’ the injury to the vines from dry
concluded that the number of days in July and harvest operations. Wi th the advent of water
August with moderate temperatures was the key harvest, the need for ample rain in October is
to rapid fruit development. T he ideal lessened with respect to vine recovery.
temperature range consisted of minimum daily However, plentiful precipitation in October and
temperature above 60°F and maximum daily November is of great value in building water
temperature below 86°F. T hat single weather supplies for the winter flood. Rainfall during this
factor accounted for more than 80% in the time is also critical for the cranberry vines, as
variability from region to region; the most rapid growers dismantle their sprinkler systems prior
growth rate occurring when temperature was in to harvest and the beds are not irrigated
this range. E quations were developed for the thereafter. If a drought occurs during this time (a
rate of fruit weight gain (R) and for the number rare occurrence), the plants can enter dormancy
of days to accumulate 0.5 gram of weight per in a weakened state. This may result in less fruit
berry (D). These equations were developed production the following year.
using data for the cultivars, Stevens, Pilgrim,
and Crowley: Year of the crop: Franklin noted that, “monthly
rainfall of two to four inches throughout the
growing season (May-August) is evidently
D = -86.6 + 2.1 A60 + 6.2 JAT - 2.1 AMT conducive to large production” (Franklin and
Stevens 1946). Also he noted that, “definite
R = -0.0156 + 0.0013 AMT - 0.0005 J86D drought in any month of the growing season is
harmful.” From 1925 to 1970, t here were 10
years with two months with rainfall under two
inches during the growing season. All of the
where JAT is July average temperature, AMT is crops in those 10 years were average or small.
August average maximum temperature, A60D is From 1970 through 2007, there have been nine
the number of days in August with minimum growing seasons that fit the rainfall parameters
temperature less than 60°F, and J86D is the mentioned above; all of those crops were also
number of days in July with maximum average to below average. T his indicates that
temperature greater than 86°F. even with sprinkler irrigation, drought
conditions are detrimental to production.
The equations show that the important limiting
factors were high temperatures in July Franklin also pointed out the negative impact on
(confirming Franklin's observations) and low cropping of excessive moisture from rainfall
temperatures in August. In the years of the and/or high water table. Part of the negative
study, high temperatures were limiting in New impact of excessive precipitation may be due to
Jersey while low temperatures were limiting in low sunshine. However, work by Lampinen and
Oregon and Washington. In one of two seasons, DeMoranville (unpublished data) showed that on
low temperatures were limiting in Wisconsin. a bog with excessive soil moisture, fruit
Massachusetts had the fewest periods of retention was reduced compared to that in an
temperature extremes in both seasons, resulting adjacent bed with less saturation (Fig. 1). This
in the shortest number of days (21 and 14 days indicates that saturated soil, rather than lack of
in 1992 and 1993, respectively) required for fruit sunshine, may be the predominant negative
to accumulate 0.5 gram fresh weight (starting factor when rainfall is excessive and drainage is
from six weeks after 30% out-of-bloom). inadequate.

Rainfall. Year prior to the crop: Franklin and Abundant precipitation in July and August
Cross theorized that ample rainfall in October of appears to be important in berry sizing.
the year prior to the crop was important to the However, with adequate irrigation in recent
yield of the subsequent crop (Franklin and Cross years, this factor should be of little importance,
1948). Wet conditions post-harvest were helpful but this has not always been the case. Lack of

32
moisture for an extended time (approximately berries (I.E. Demoranville, personal
two to three weeks) during the period from mid observation). It has been noted that the
July through early September (as seen in 1995, development of fully sized fruit was dependent
2005, and 2007), may cause an interruption in on the production of a threshold number of seeds
the growth of berries that affects their size at – once that number was reached, adding more
harvest. I rrigation helps, but is apparently not seeds had little additional impact on fruit size
always sufficient substitute for rain when it (Cane and Schiffhauer 2003). Both observations
comes to fruit development. R esearch by highlight the importance of good pollination and
Lampinen (unpublished data) showed that fertilization of the ovules in the flower.
weekly demand of the cranberry plant for water Adequate numbers of flower visits by bees and
varies from 0.5 to 2 inches per week with sufficient quantities of viable pollen are critical.
maximum demand occurring in July. Both frost and winter injury can lead to
reduction in pollen viability and possibly that of
the ovules.

70 Soil Moisture. A plentiful, but not excessive,

No fruit amount of moisture in the soil is important in the
60 1 berry
sizing of berries. A pproximately 88% of the
Percent of flowering uprights

fresh weight of a cranberry fruit is water (Fellers

2 berries
50
and Esselen 1955). R ainfall and sub-irrigation
40 (via drainage ditches) are most helpful, but
sprinkler irrigation is necessary to maintain
30 uniform moisture when rainfall is deficient.
Conditions of either drought or excessive water
20
can interrupt the growth cycle of the fruit:
10
uniform moisture without soil saturation is the
key. Further, excessive soil saturation has been
0 associated with poor fruit retention (Fig. 1).
Adequate moisture Too wet
Hail. Hail injury is most serious during the
Fig. 1. Fruit retention on flowering uprights flowering period in June and July, when
from a bog receiving adequate irrigation or blossoms and flower buds are either severed or
excessive watering. Note that with excess water, battered so severely that fruit set is affected,
significantly more uprights retained no fruit. leading to yield reduction. I n August,
Differences in all three categories were developing fruit may be bruised, punctured, or
significantly different between adequate and wet detached from the plant during a hail event.
areas. Data from Lampinen and DeMoranville Such berries may form hard, brown scars that
(unpublished data). could be a problem for fresh market but would
not affect their use for processing. Some of the
injured berries may be predisposed to infection
OTHER FACTORS AFFECTING by the fungi that cause fruit rot. W hether
BERRY SIZE AND YIELD infection occurs or not is dependent on the
conditions that occur immediately after the hail
Seed Number. Berry size within a v ariety is injury, e.g., high humidity, which would retain a
proportional to average number of seeds per film of moisture on the surface of the berry
berry, although the statistical relationship is where the injury occurred.
weak. On average, large berries will have more
viable seeds than small berries. L arge berries Cranberry plants usually recover well from any
average about triple the number of seeds of leaf damage. O nly rarely is flower bud
small berries and average-sized berries have production for the following year affected.
about double the number of seeds of small Summer hail storms in Massachusetts occur

33
most often in the afternoon and evening, rarely FRUIT QUALITY
at night and in the morning. H ail is always
associated with violent thunderstorms, which Ripening and Color Development. In
nearly always approach from the north- cranberries, ripening can be followed by
northwest to west-southwest quadrant. monitoring the changes in the ratio between
soluble solids (sugars; °Brix) and acids. Acidity
Plant Nutrition. If 88% of a cranberry fruit is increases at a rapid rate through August (Sapers,
water, the remaining 12% is mineral nutrients et al., 1986). As the fruit ripen, acid content
and carbohydrates (the products of levels off while sugars increase so that the ratio
photosynthesis--sugars, acids, and starch). increases (Sapers, et al., 1986; Fellers and
Early-season nutrition is key to the plant’s Esselen, 1955). Color (anthocyanin content)
ability to produce adequate growth for develops in cranberry fruit in tandem with the
photosynthesis and fruit filling. Approximately ripening process. H owever, fruit judged to be
90% of the dry matter in the berries is ripe based on i nternal chemistry may be poorly
carbohydrate. Availability of essential nutrients colored (Sapers et al. 1986). This indicates that
during fruit development is also important. in addition to ripening, environmental factors
However, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer can play a role in controlling color development.
result in fewer, poor-quality fruit.
Temperature: Franklin (Franklin and Stevens
Timing of Harvest. Cranberry fruit continue to 1946) noted that cool weather in August
increase in weight, although at a slower rate, in promoted the early ripening (coloring) of
September compared to that in July and August. cranberry fruit. I ndeed, it appears that warm
Fruits continue to increase in weight until late weather in August and September can delay the
September for early varieties and mid-October color development of cranberries in
or longer for late varieties. E arly harvest may Massachusetts. This effect appears to be
result in loss of 10% or more of potential yield. intensified if the spring was cold. Early in the
A recent evaluation of field samples in fall, cranberry fruit developed more color if
Massachusetts showed that Ben Lear and Early temperatures were low compared to that at
Black cranberries increased in weight by ~20% higher temperatures (Hall and Stark 1972). As
during September and by an additional 5% in the fruit gained color (later in the fall), continued
early October (DeMoranville and Sandler, increase in color was less responsive to
unpublished data). differentials in temperature. Interestingly, low
temperatures also accelerated red color
Winter Desiccation. Loss of water in leaf and development in cranberry leaves (fall dormant
bud tissues may occur under certain conditions coloration).
during the winter. This transpirational loss may
become severe when the root zone is frozen. Cranberry development was compared to the
Desiccation may result in leaf loss in the spring. accumulation of growing degree days (GDD) at
Since cranberries accumulate nonstructural three locations in Wisconsin (Hawker and Stang
carbohydrates (the fuel for metabolism and 1985). T hey found that vegetative growth and
growth) in the spring (Hagidimitriou and Roper flowering occurred at the same number of GDD
1994), the loss of leaf tissue may have a at all locations. H owever, fruit maturity as
significant impact on subsequent production of determined by anthocyanin production did not
new growth and fruit. Winter floods are held to correlate well with GDD, occurring any time
minimize this type of damage. F all application after 1,500 or 1,650 GDD, depending on
of antitranspirants may reduce the loss of leaf location within the state. I nvolvement of other
tissue on beds that cannot hold a winter flood environmental cues, specifically daylength, was
(Sandler 1998b). I t is not known whether proposed.
antitranspirants will also minimize leaf loss on
flooded beds that are periodically exposed to the Other factors: The use of certain fungicides,
weather during the dormant season. notably those in the mancozeb and maneb (and

34
previously registered Zineb) types, can retard If moisture is available in the soil, transpiration
color development in cranberry fruit. Excessive and water circulation should be adequate to cool
use of nitrogen fertilizer can also have a the plants and fruit. O ccasionally, conditions
negative effect, most likely due to shading of the occur where water loss is too rapid for the plants
fruit by excessive upright growth. This confirms to replace transpiration losses even in moist soil.
the importance of light in the production of Such conditions may lead to scald. If the soil is
anthocyanins in the fruit. Indeed, berries deep in dry, these conditions will develop more rapidly.
the canopy color poorly, if at all. Because scald can develop even when irrigation
or rainfall has been adequate, a f orecast for
Scald. S cald is a physiological disorder of scalding conditions was important. B ased on
cranberry fruit characterized by a ci rcular observations made in 1990, a scald forecast was
pattern of softening and discoloration. It was developed for New Jersey.
long believed that scald was caused by high
temperatures, a sort of cooking of the fruit. This
is only partially true, soil and air moisture also Scald Forecast Checklist for New Jersey
play a role in the development of scald. Scald is adapted from Croft (1992)
not caused by damage from water droplets left
on the fruit following irrigation during daylight Meteorological predictors:
hours. A major scald event in New Jersey in
August 1990 w as studied and some of the •Dew points of 55°F or less during midday
factors that lead to this disorder were determined hours.
(Croft 1992; Croft 1993). Yield losses of 10% •High temperatures of 80°F or more
or more were associated with this period of (sheltered).
scalding conditions. W eather and bog records
for the days of the scald occurrence showed low •Clear or scattered sky conditions.
relative humidity (20%), excessive temperature •Recent development of high pressure
in the vines (100°F) with shelter temperature of dropping down from the north.
only about 80°F, strong solar radiation (very
bright skies), extremely low soil moisture in the
upper layer, and a large amount of heat release Contributing factors:
from the soil to the atmosphere each afternoon. •Low moisture in the bog soil.

Cranberry plants cool themselves through a •Wind speed of more than 10 knots.
process called transpiration, in which water •No rainfall in the past 48 hours.
carried up though the roots into the leaves is
released through pores (stomata) in the leaf
surface. As the escaping water evaporates at the
leaf surface, energy is used and the leaf cools When scald is forecast, sprinkler irrigation in the
(evaporative cooling). Cranberry plants have midday to early afternoon hours is
little ability to control water flow out of the recommended to supplement transpiration with
stomata. When the air is dry and the surface of external evaporative cooling. T he sprinklers
the plant is very hot, water is rapidly lost, should run for at least an hour to thoroughly wet
sometimes faster than it can be replaced from the vines and fruit. S prinkling should continue
the roots. I f the soil is dry, the water loss can long enough for the vines to remain damp until
become critical. C ranberry fruit do not the sheltered temperature drops below 85°F. It
transpire, but may be cooled by water circulation is not necessary to continue irrigation until
within the fruit. H owever, when water is sunset.
limiting and transpiration from the leaves is
rapid, water may be drawn from the fruit. A s Fruit Rot Disease. Franklin and Cross (1948)
the fruit overheat, scald develops. found a strong relationship between various
weather factors and the quality of Massachusetts

35
cranberries. The general reliability of the
relationship was responsible for the issuing of Table 3. Factors affecting how points are
keeping quality forecasts starting in 1949 and awarded for the keeping quality forecast
continuing to the present. A preliminary (Franklin and Cross, 1948: Table 1; Franklin
forecast is issued in early April to aid in decision and Stevens, 1946: Tables 11 and 12).
making regarding the use of late water. Points
are awarded based on sunshine, temperature, and 1. If the total of sunshine hours from
rainfall (Tables 3 and 4). A final forecast is previous year is less than the 50-year
issued in early June prior to fungicide average of 2,274 hours. 4 points
applications for fruit rot disease.
2. If the total of sunshine hours for February
Sunshine: Below average total sunshine the year for the present year is less than the 50-year
before the crop year has a favorable affect on average for that month (143 hr). 1 point
crop quality. Below average sunshine in
February of the crop year is beneficial; however,
3. If the total of sunshine hours for March
March sunshine above average is favorable.
for the present year is more than the 50-year
average for that month (179 hr). 2 points
Temperature: Franklin set threshold
temperatures for the months of March, April,
4. If the total precipitation for March for the
May and June and showed that if temperatures
present year is less than the average of East
were below these thresholds, then the quality of
Wareham and Middleboro mean of 4.39
cranberries would be favorably affected.
inches. 1 point
Franklin’s threshold temperatures are about two
degrees below normal for March and April;
nearly normal for May and June. 5. If the average temperature for March of
the present year at Middleboro is below the
Rainfall: Less than average rainfall in March, March threshold of 34°F. 2 points
April and May is favorable for keeping quality.
6. If the average temperature for April for
From 1948 through 2007, the keeping quality the present year at Middleboro is below the
forecasts issued by the UMass Cranberry Station April threshold of 44°F. 2 points
had an 87.9% success rate, with quality no
worse than predicted. I n only 13 y ears (12%) 7. If the total precipitation for April for the
was the quality poorer than predicted, while in present year is less than the average of East
21 years (20%) the quality was better than Wareham and Middleboro (6.70 inches).
forecasted. 1 point

In addition to the normal forecast factors, there 8. If the average temperature for May for the
appears to be a strong relationship between present year at Middleboro is below the
sunshine during the months of June, July, and May threshold of 52°F. 2 points
August and the keeping quality forecast. During
the years when the keeping quality was not as 9. If the total precipitation for May for the
good as predicted, less than normal sunshine present year is less than the average of East
occurred in all three months. S ummers with Wareham and Middleboro (3.20 inches).
above normal sunshine for the three months 1 point
were associated with quality as good or better
than predicted. The month that appeared to MAXIMUM POINTS 16
exert the greatest influence was July, if the
departure from normal was greater than ten
percent.

36
 Table 4. Possible point totals from items 1- initiate flowering for the new season. The time
5 (Table 3). These totals are applied to the during that chilling units accumulate is referred
preliminary keeping quality report only. to as a rest period. Once the critical number of
chilling units is accumulated, the chilling
0 = Very poor requirement is satisfied and the plants will break
1 = Poor dormancy as soon as external environmental
2 = Poor to fair conditions, primarily temperature and
3 = Fair lengthening days, are favorable.
4 = Fair to good
5 = Good Chandler and Demoranville (Chandler and
6 = Very good Demoranville 1964) proposed that 2,500 hours
7 = Very good to excellent below 45°F were required as a r est period for
8 = Excellent cranberries prior to bud break and normal
(9 or 10 points never awarded) flowering. At greater than 1,500 hours (but less
than 2,500), some abnormal flowering was
observed. However, their plants were chilled in
FLOWER BUD INITIATION AND the dark. When chilling conditions were applied
DEVELOPMENT to cranberries under an 8- or 9-hour daylength
(similar to field conditions), approximately
Cranberry flower buds are initiated in the year 1,000 hours of chilling below 45°F was
before the crop is harvested. The signal to sufficient for subsequent flowering (Eady and
initiate flower buds comes from the leaves. By Eaton 1969; Pilcher 1985). H owever, longer
removing the mature leaves at different times, chilling periods hastened the flowering response.
one can determine when the signal for the floral
induction event is sent. That date was It appears that chilling units alone do not
determined to be July 8 i n Wisconsin (Roberts account for optimum flowering response. A
and Struckmeyer 1943) and July 4 in British daily period above 45°F combined with daily
Columbia (Eaton 1978). Daylength seems to hours below 45°F and a 9-hour daylength
play a controlling role in this process but a allowed a flowering response after 1,000 hours
certain minimum temperature may also be of chilling, whereas at constant temperatures
required (Pilcher, 1985). By August, the initial below 45°F, 2,500 hours of chilling were
stages of the flower bud could be observed and required to get the same response (Eady and
visible changes in the buds continued until some Eaton 1972; Rigby and Dana 1972). In addition,
time in October in Wisconsin. Bud development rapid transition to flowering after chilling
almost certainly continues later into the year in required long days. If daylength was limited to
milder growing areas. E ventually the flower 8 hours after the completion of chilling,
buds become dormant until the following spring. flowering was abnormal (Rigby and Dana 1972).
The signal to enter dormancy is most likely a
combination of low temperatures and short days. A chilling model was developed based on these
research results (Hawker and Stang 1985). The
Chilling. D uring the dormant period, chilling model was based on a ccumulation of daily
units accumulate. I n the most simple models, chilling units when the minimum daily
chilling units are recorded as the number of temperatures were between 51°F and 30°F. The
hours below a critical base temperature. start and end dates for accumulation were based
Research in many crops indicates that chilling on daylength as well as minimum temperature.
units cease to accumulate at very low Chill unit accumulation began when daylength
temperatures, most likely when temperatures was 14.5 hours (Wisconsin) or when minimum
drop below 32°F. In common with other daily temperature fell to 51°F (lower latitudes)
perennial fruit crops, the cranberry plants must and continued until daylength was again 14.5
accumulate a critical number of chilling units in hours or minimum daily temperature rose to
order to break dormancy in the spring and 30°F.

37
Strik and DeMoranville compared chilling developmental cycle (vegetative growth,
requirement of Stevens cranberry in Oregon and flowering, and fruiting) depends on the
Massachusetts using the simplified model of accumulation of heat units or growing degree
counting hours between 32ºF and 45ºF. U sing days (GDD). Investigators in Wisconsin and
this approach, the chilling requirement in Washington (Hall and Stark 1972; Hawker and
Oregon was ~600 hours while in Massachusetts Stang 1985) showed that flower and fruit
the requirement was only met after ~1800 hours. development were dependent on the
In addition, using this method, Stevens (from accumulation of GDD, with both occurring in a
beds less than 5 years old) in Massachusetts had predictable manner based on models for heat
adequate chilling after only 1100 hour s. T he unit accumulation. The Washington model
interregional differences offer evidence that the emphasized the importance of moderate
simple model may not be adequate to describe temperatures between 45°F and 85°F (Pilcher,
the cranberry chilling requirement. H owever, 1985). Research in Massachusetts has identified
the variation between the requirement of plants 40ºF as the appropriate base temperature for
from juvenile vs. mature Stevens beds remains compiling GDD for cranberry (DeMoranville,
unexplained. 1992). Vanden Heuvel and DeMoranville
(unpublished data) found that plants began
Post-chilling. At the end of the period during vegetative growth (leaf expansion) at about 500
which chilling units accumulate, events leading GDD and initial fruit development began at
to bud b reak and flowering may begin. O nce approximately 1500 GDD.
dormancy has broken in response to increased
temperature and daylength, completion of the

38
 Water Use in Cranberry Production
Carolyn DeMoranville
Water is the single most important resource for September). H e found that on average, the
growing cranberries. Growers rely on a plentiful water demand of the cranberry plants was one
supply of clean water for the production of their inch per week. H owever, on a w eekly basis,
crop. Cranberry growers manage water on their demand varied from 0.5 inch (early and late
beds to ensure sufficient moisture and adequate season) and as much as 2 inches per week during
drainage for optimum plant growth. W ater the hottest days in mid-summer. Additional
management practices on cranberry beds differ water is needed in July and August for the sizing
from those used for other forms of agriculture of developing fruit. When rainfall is not
because of the variety of ways that water is used sufficient to meet these demands, supplemental
in cranberry culture. Water is used for disease irrigation water is applied using sprinklers (see
and insect control, frost and heat protection, the Irrigation chapter).
sanding, harvesting, and protection from winter
desiccation and cold injury. B ecause of the Table 1 shows estimates of the seasonal water
periodic need for sizable amounts of water, (in acre-feet) needed for cranberry production in
impoundment of water adjacent to the beds is a peat-based and mineral soil cranberry beds
normal farming practice in cranberry production. based on a limited study at 4 sites. As a general
In addition to storage ponds and sumps, rule, growers plan for up to 10 acre-feet of water
components of a typical water management storage capacity to meet all production,
system for a cranberry bog include irrigation harvesting, and flooding needs even in drought
systems, wells, flood gates and flumes, lift years. The actual required capacity will vary
pumps, and drainage ditches and pipes. depending on the rate of recharge of the water
supply, the extent of water recapture and reuse,
Growers may construct bypass canals to reroute and the efficiency of the bog system. With the
water that normally flows through the bog. This implementation of appropriate BMPs, water
practice is designed to protect water quality needs may be reduced substantially.
during fertilizer or pesticide applications. Such
canals may be part of a tailwater recovery
system as well, enhancing water conservation. Table 1. Estimated water use in cranberry
production in acre-feet. D ata from a st udy
Cranberry growers often re-use water, of 4 bog systems from 2002-2004. Beds in
recapturing it through the use of tailwater the study were fairly level.
recovery systems that move water from the bog
back to a st orage reservoir. In some instances, Management Peat-based Mineral
water is also recycled among growers, Practice beds soil beds
particularly at harvest. Therefore, water uses on
Winter flood 1.6 1.5
cranberry beds are not always consumptive.
2nd flood (as needed) 0.9 0.8
Newly established beds, however, do require
Frost protection* 0.7 1.1
more irrigation to satisfy the needs of growing
Chemigation 0.1 0.1
vines. B ecause cranberry culture typically is
Irrigation 0.5 0.9
carried out in moist areas such as wetlands and
Water harvest 1.6 1.6
marshes, irrigation needs are limited and
comparatively small. Total 5.4 6.0
*Mineral soil beds tend to be planted with
Bruce Lampinen studied evapotranspiration cultivars requiring more frost protection in
potential in a Massachusetts cranberry bog the spring.
during the growing season (May through Avg. annual rainfall (1971-2000) -- 3.9 feet

39
Water Management Act. The Water a successful cranberry operation. Among these
Management Act (WMA), M.G.L. Chapter 21G, structures are spillways and conduits used to
was enacted in 1985 for the purpose of temporarily divert water flow, dikes and flumes,
managing water resources in Massachusetts. and structures fitting the more traditional
The act required consumptive use of water definition of a dam used to permanently detain
beyond a threshold amount (100,000 gal/day or water, creating the reservoirs required in the bog
9 million gallons within a three-month period) to system.
be registered with the Massachusetts Department
of Environmental Protection (DEP). Despite the Activities that rely on diking systems and water
only nominal flux in water use attributed to control structures include flooding the beds,
cranberry growing, the DEP regulated the impounding water, manipulation of the water
cranberry industry as ‘virtually non- table in the bed, and drainage functions. Dikes
consumptive’ in order that cranberry growers are also used to separate the cranberry beds into
would be provided the protections of the WMA manageable units for flood harvest.
in regards to rights to use water.
Dikes: Dikes are embankments constructed of
For cranberry growers, rights to water are earth or other suitable materials. I n cranberry
determined by the following four factors. management, perimeter and interior dikes are
used to temporarily impound water for harvest,
1) Registration of historic use (baseline) in 1988 trash (leaf litter) removal, pest control, and
based on p revious 5-year water use. winter protection. Dikes are also used to
Registrations are renewed every 10 years. impound water for the preservation of water
quality, limiting the discharge of sediments and
2) The threshold volume of water - for
segregating waters following the application of
cranberries, this is calculated on an acreage basis
pesticides. Dikes allow the control of water
so that the threshold for cranberries is 4.66 acres
levels to maintain the depth from rooting zone to
based on water use of 10 acre-feet per year.
water table for optimum cranberry growth and
This threshold is increased 9.33 acres for water-
productivity. D ikes surrounding tailwater or
conserving ‘new style’ bogs that meet certain
other irrigation ponds facilitate water storage.
criteria including level surface, tailwater
recovery, water control and irrigation designed
Dikes are constructed to a height 1 f oot above
to NRCS specifications, and a f arm plan in
the normal flood elevation of the bog. Dikes are
place. If a grower's acreage within a watershed
stabilized by seeding to grass or other plants, by
area remains within these thresholds, no
mulching, or by placing soil stabilization fabric
registration or permit is required.
(e.g., geotextile, netting, or burlap). V egetated
3) Addition of acres to a registration or permit embankments are maintained by mowing as
based on conservation credits awarded for the needed to prevent the spread of seeds onto the
implementation of practices that conserve water. beds and to facilitate removal of berries during
4) Growers may apply for permits for acres that flood harvest.
are not covered under the three items above or
for new acres. Flumes. F lumes are water control structures
(usually constructed of steel, aluminum, or
Growers report their permitted and registered concrete) that are installed in a dike to convey
water use annually and pay an annual fee to water, control the direction of flow, or maintain
maintain the registration or permit. a required water surface elevation.

Water Control Structures. Commercial In cranberry systems, the primary purpose of the
cranberry management requires the ability to flume is to control discharge, distribution,
manipulate water during the course of the delivery, or direction of water flow in open
season. Water control structures are essential to channels (ditches, canals) or on the cranberry
beds. They are also used for water quality

40
control, holding back sediment and impounding accumulates on the surface of the bog for
water following pesticide applications. extended periods, erosion occurs, vines or fruit
show damage from low aeration, Phytophthora
Flumes designed for controlling water root rot is present or is increasing, an anaerobic,
movement onto cranberry beds have a structure swampy odor is present, soil test manganese
elevation such that a foot-deep flood can be levels exceeds 800 ppm, or yields are down.
maintained on the bed. F lumes designs should
allow the water table to be lowered to an
adequate depth to favor proper rooting during
the growing season. For additional information:

Drainage. Proper soil drainage results in healthy DeMoranville, C. J. and Sandler, H. A. (2000).
vines that reduce the incidence of diseases such Water Resource Protection and Enhancement.
as root rot and the need for fungicide Best management practices guide for
applications for its control. Proper drainage also Massachusetts cranberry production.
improves fertilizer use efficiency resulting in http://www.umass.edu/cranberry/services/bmp/
lower fertilizer inputs. Waterlogged soils lead to waterresource.shtml.
a poorly aerated root zone and limit the plants'
ability to acquire nutrients from the soil. I n Cape Cod Cranberry Growers Association
addition, saturated soil conditions can limit the Grower Advisories:
ability of the cranberry plant to retain fruit. Dam Monitoring and Maintenance
http://www.cranberries.org/pdf/advisories/dam_
The drainage system should have the capacity to monitoring_maintenance_2007.pdf.
carry water away from the bog and regulate the
water table level as management needs dictate. Water Management Act
Cranberry drainage systems may include http://www.cranberries.org/pdf/advisories/water
ditches, subsurface tiles, pumping systems, _management_act.pdf.
ponds, sumps, and tailwater recovery.

Additional drainage is required if one or more of

the following conditions is present: water

41
 Sprinkler System Design, Use, and Performance
Dan Barnett, Jack Heywood, and Peter Jeranyama
A sprinkler system is a collection of component Irrigation applies supplemental water for plant
devices which, powered by a pump, transports growth and berry development. Frost protection
water from either groundwater or surface water applies water to prevent damage to buds and
(e.g., a sm all man-made reservoir, or a n atural berries when they are sensitive to temperatures
water body like a pond, stream or lake) that below freezing. Chemigation is the process of
projects water into the air and deposits it onto applying chemicals by injecting them into the
the surface of the ground. It consists of metal or sprinkler system. T his application method is
plastic pipes, which are either horizontal (mains, commonly used with many pesticides and some
submains, and laterals) or vertical (risers), and fertilizers used on the beds. U nlike systems
rotating sprinkler heads, made mostly of metal, designed for other crops that may only use one
with nozzles mounted in them. The horizontal or two operations, cranberry sprinkler design
pipes are typically buried under the surface. must consider and balance the special needs of
There are also a number of other parts including all three practices.
fittings, valves, vents, filters, etc.
The Sprinkler System Standard used by the
Purchasing and accepting a design of a sprinkler USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
system are probably some of the most important (NRCS) instructs that design requirements be
decisions that a cranberry grower will make. based on a Coefficient of Uniformity (CU). This
Before designing a system, examine the water measurement of the evenness of water
source to be sure that it is of acceptable quantity application is expressed as a p ercentage. It was
and quality. One should consider the wide range developed by J.E. Christiansen (Christiansen
of present and future water needs when deciding 1942) and is calculated by doing a catchcan test.
on pump specifications, capabilities, and This test involves setting out cans in a grid
location, as well as the traits of all the pattern between sprinklers and comparing the
components to be sure that they will function in quantity of water caught in each can. T he
a compatible and integrated manner. The design NRCS design specifications mandate the system
of the system should avoid excessive water to achieve a CU of at least 85% whenever any
velocities, and limit the pressure loss due to one of the following three criteria is met:
friction as water moves through the system.
 Use on a high-value crop.
John Norton, an agricultural engineer with the
Cooperative Extension Service, wrote a paper  Use on a shallow-rooted crop.
summarizing the history of design and use of  Used to dispense chemicals.
sprinkler systems on cranberry beds (Norton
1987). H e included the results of low Sprinkler systems used in cranberry production
temperature research conducted at the Cranberry meet all three of these criteria.
Station in the 1950’s when there were relatively
few sprinkler systems on commercial cranberry Two situations could occur if a lower CU were
beds. Because of that work, sprinkler system used. First, the shallow-rooted cranberry plants
use has expanded and can be found on ne arly could suffer moisture stress. S econd,
every bog today. As one grower has said, “It is chemigation would be unsatisfactory because the
probably our most important tool; we use it for system would be depositing either too much
almost everything.” T hree vital operations chemical in some places (a possible
performed by sprinklers on cranberry beds are environmental, phytotoxic, or food residue
irrigation, frost protection, and chemigation (see problem) and/or too little in other places
next three chapters). (resulting in poor pest control and inadequate

42
fertilization). F urthermore, investing in a high morning hours (unless the grower is trying to
performance system is economically justified cool the bog during extremely hot weather).
because of the high dollar value of cranberries
and the improvement in the quantity and quality Pressure. The best CU for common spacings
of the crop. occurs when the system is run at a minimum of
40 psi. I f the pressure is lower, the CU goes
In 2004, the Center for Irrigation Technology down. Increasing the pressure to 55 psi does not
(CIT) at the California State University-Fresno, significantly improve the CU. T herefore, the
California Agricultural Technology Institute in pump should be run at a high enough pressure to
cooperation with the Cape Cod Cranberry enable the weakest head in the system to operate
Growers' Association (CCCGA), conducted at 40 psi. The pressure differential between the
numerous tests to check the efficiency of various pump and the weakest head, and the pressure
sprinkler head for potential use in cranberry variation throughout the system as a whole, will
systems. As a result of these tests, systems have be small (less than 15%) if the main and laterals
been designed to incorporate new technology. are properly sized to reduce the pressure losses
These include the use of pop-ups heads that are due to friction.
designed to be less labor-intensive and more
economical. Risers. Risers are vertical pieces of pipe that
connect the sprinkler head to the underground
lateral (Fig. 1). T hese simple items have a
TRADITIONAL SYSTEMS critical effect on CU. It is absolutely necessary
that they be long enough on a 50' x 60' system to
Head Spacing. Sprinkler heads on c ranberry make the nozzle 18 inches higher than the top of
beds are arranged in a triangular staggered the vines in order to get a CU of 85%. They
pattern to provide better coverage on the must be rigid and perfectly plumb, or the CU
irregular shapes of the cranberry farm. W hen can drop by 10% or more. This is why the 50' x
the spacing is described, the first, smaller 60' spacing requires such a h igh level of
number refers to the spacing between laterals on attention. The only practical way to keep the
the main pipe, and the second, larger number riser plumb is to anchor it. Growers may pour
refers to the distance between heads on a lateral. cement around the riser to stabilize it while still
Several different spacings are used in modern allowing for its removal before picking
cranberry production. operations begin. O thers stake the riser with
either wood or metal. An ingenious plastic stake
Although rare in Massachusetts now, 60' x 70' that requires some skill to install and remove is
spacings used to be common in the industry. also available.
Decline in the use of systems with this design is
just as w ell because their CU’s are poor. Sprinkler Heads. The sprinkler heads used on
Currently, 50' x 60' spacings are the most cranberry beds are operated best with only one
common design. T his spacing is capable of open outlet. Sprinkler heads with two outlets
achieving a C U of 85%, but only if close (front and rear) are available, but do not deliver
attention is paid to some critical details. acceptable performance on cranberry beds. A
Spacings of 40' x 50' are also used in some 0.75-inch size head is used on a 50' x 60' system.
cases. The body is made of brass with a spoon drive
arm, also made of brass. One manufacturer
Wind. Cranberry sprinkler systems are offers an aluminum arm, claiming that it works
designed to function in 0-5 mph wind better during frost protection. This same head
conditions. Chemigation should only be done can also be used on a 40' x 50' system, but a
when the wind is calm. M ost often, calm smaller nozzle must be used and some
conditions prevail during times when frost modifications may be necessary. Some types of
protection is needed, permitting good coverage. 0.5-inch size heads are compatible with 40'x50'
Irrigation is also typically done in the calm early spacings. Most of these smaller heads are made

43
of brass (plastic body heads are available but A 40'x50' system uses a 1/8-inch nozzle rated at
these cannot be used for frost protection). Some 2.96 gpm operated at 40 ps i. T he precipitation
are made of stainless steel, and both come with rate in this case is 0.142 acre-inch per hour. The
either a spoon drive arm or a w edge drive arm output of the two spacings is almost the same
(for faster turning). Wh atever size and type is because the smaller size nozzles on the 40'x50'
chosen, it must be able to turn at least once per system compensate for the fact that it has more
minute to provide good frost protection. This heads per acre.
requires the right match of nozzle size with drive
arm, spring tension, and washers in order to New nozzle styles are available that are superior
operate correctly. to the common round hole, straightbore (SB)
nozzle. They are given different names by each
manufacturer. F or example, Rainbird calls
theirs, LPN nozzles. They are made of plastic
and have a square hole. Weather-Tec calls theirs
a ‘multi pressure’ nozzle; it is made of brass
with a stainless steel insert. It has three points
that flare slightly at the tip of the nozzle,
orientated as if they were on a clock face at the
12, 4, a nd 8 o’ clock position. A ll of these
nozzles can be referred to as high uniformity
(HU) nozzles because they improve the CU by
10%. They do no t deliver as tight a water
stream as r egular round hole nozzles. Some of
the water breaks away at the corners or flares as
it leaves the end of the nozzle, and falls in areas
Fig. 1. Impact sprinkler head on metal riser.
not well watered by the standard SB nozzle. HU
Photo courtesy H. Sandler.
and SB nozzles come in approximately the same
size and may be used in both full- and part-
circle heads.
One way to prevent spraying sensitive areas
during chemigation is to use screens with full- Straightbore nozzles with vanes (special plastic
circle (FC) heads. A nother way is to use part- inserts that narrow the water stream) were found
circle (PC) heads. A PC head set at 180° waters to produce CU’s that were no be tter than plain
its area twice for each complete rotation of a FC straightbore nozzles even when they were run
head. Therefore, ideally, these PC heads should with 10-15 psi more pressure (Center for
have an output equal to half of an FC head. This Irrigation Technology 2004).
is not always possible because FC heads can run
with smaller nozzles than PC heads. The best,
lowest output PC head is a half-inch size with a NEW AND INNOVATIVE SYSTEMS
7/64-inch nozzle. If clogging is a concern, then
a 1/8-inch nozzle could be used. This head Head Spacing. New systems can be triangular
should be used with both 50'x60' and 40'x50' or rectangular with numerous spacing
systems. T he CU for an area with PC heads configurations. Coefficient of uniformity can
drops about 10% on a 50'x60', and about 5% on approach 91% with the right combination of
a 40'x50'. O nce again, the closer spacing is head, spacing and pressure.
superior.
For example, a sy stem with Hunter I-20 high
Nozzles. The proper size nozzle for a 50'x60' pop (hp) heads and a number 3.5 nozzle at 40 psi
system is 5/32-inch, rated at 4.5 gallon per on a 50’ x 35’ triangular spacing delivers a CU
minute (gpm) when run at 40 psi. This produces of 91%.
a precipitation rate of 0.144 acre-inch per hour.

44
A 50’ x 60’ system head swap (Hunter I-20 hp Nozzles. Straightbore nozzles (manufactured by
for Impact head) will deliver an approved 87% Hunter and Rainbird) and WTEC multipressure
CU with a number 4 noz zle at 50 psi (weakest nozzles produce the required performance of CU
head). ≥85% with a minimum precipitation rate of
0.095 inches per hour, while the average is ≤
Wind. It is similar to traditional systems. 0.18 inches per hour.

Pressure. The best CU is achieved with the new One advantage of new systems with Hunter pop-
systems operating at 40 to 50 ps i depending on ups is the flexibility of nozzle choice. Hunter
the spacing chosen. pop-ups have five interchangeable nozzle sizes.
Precipitation rates can be customized to bog
Risers. Same as traditional system, if needed. wet/dry conditions, based on nozzle choice. In
addition these new systems have improved
Sprinkler Heads. As a result of tests performed uniformity, ability to turn individual heads on
by California Agricultural Technology Institute, and off, and decreased vandalism.
Fresno, in 2004 (Center for Irrigation
Technology 2004), the following heads can be
used: FINAL REMARKS

1. Hunter 12” high pop-up As growers continue to seek to increase

2. Rainbird 14.5” impact on 12” to 18” production and efficiencies on their beds,
risers, depending on spacing and pressure sprinkler systems have to become more precise
3. Weather-TEC GSO ½” impact head on instruments. Their use for many different tasks
12” to 18” risers, depending on s pacing puts a high demand on the system’s designer,
and pressure components, and users.

See following tables for pressure, nozzle size, An intelligent design that makes use of the latest
spacing type, spacing dimensions and CU for data and technology, which is carefully installed
pop-up and impact heads. Pressure for all and wisely operated, will go a long way toward
impact head data is 40 psi. For impact head helping the grower obtain an abundant, high
tables, RB = Rainbird; WT = WeatherTec. quality harvest. It also helps to save energy costs
Spacings listed for all data are industry and conserves water.
conventions; reverse for cranberry. Popup head
data results from SpacePro Program (CIT),
10/26/04. I mpact head data results from
SpacePro Program (CIT), 5/3/05. The following tables represent a
collaboration of efforts:
Work was conducted by Center for
Irrigation Technology at California State
University, funded by Cape Cod Cranberry
Growers Association, and analyzed by Dave
Nelson, USDA, Natural Resource
Conservation Service.

45
 Hunter I-20 Pop-Up Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test
Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Nozzle Pressure GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
#3 40 2.49 Rectangular 40.0 x 40.0 89% 85% 1.2 0.100 0.132 0.192 27 67.2
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 60.0 x 30.0 91% 87% 1.1 0.106 0.139 0.216 24 65.3
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 55.0 x 30.0 91% 88% 1.2 0.114 0.152 0.216 26 70.7
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 50.0 x 40.0 89% 82% 1.2 0.096 0.126 0.216 22 59.8
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 50.0 x 35.0 89% 82% 1.3 0.096 0.143 0.216 25 68.0
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 45.0 x 45.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.095 0.124 0.216 22 59.8
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 45.0 x 40.0 87% 80% 1.2 0.098 0.139 0.216 24 65.3
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 45.0 x 35.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.104 0.159 0.216 28 76.2
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 40.0 x 45.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.096 0.139 0.216 24 65.3
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 40.0 x 40.0 89% 82% 1.3 0.103 0.157 0.216 27 73.4
#3 50 2.72 Triangular 35.0 x 45.0 93% 87% 1.3 0.096 0.159 0.244 28 76.2
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 50.0 x 40.0 88% 84% 1.2 0.096 0.126 0.216 22 59.8
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 50.0 x 35.0 88% 82% 1.2 0.096 0.143 0.244 25 68.0
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 45.0 x 45.0 91% 87% 1.1 0.096 0.124 0.216 22 59.8
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 45.0 x 40.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.100 0.139 0.216 24 65.3
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 45.0 x 35.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.112 0.159 0.244 28 76.2
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 40.0 x 50.0 88% 84% 1.2 0.096 0.126 0.216 22 59.8
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 40.0 x 45.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.100 0.139 0.216 24 65.3
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 40.0 x 40.0 91% 88% 1.1 0.118 0.157 0.216 27 73.4
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 35.0 x 50.0 88% 82% 1.2 0.096 0.143 0.244 25 68.0
#3 50 2.72 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.112 0.159 0.244 28 76.2
#3.5 40 3.03 Triangular 35.0 x 50.0 91% 87% 1.2 0.132 0.161 0.226 25 75.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 90% 84% 1.2 0.132 0.179 0.225 28 84.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Triangular 30.0 x 60.0 86% 79% 1.2 0.114 0.157 0.242 24 72.7
#3.5 40 3.03 Triangular 30.0 x 55.0 88% 82% 1.2 0.126 0.171 0.242 26 78.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 55.0 x 35.0 88% 83% 1.3 0.110 0.147 0.225 23 69.7
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 55.0 x 30.0 86% 80% 1.3 0.110 0.171 0.242 26 78.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 50.0 x 35.0 87% 83% 1.3 0.114 0.161 0.226 25 75.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 45.0 x 35.0 87% 80% 1.3 0.124 0.179 0.228 28 84.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 35.0 x 55.0 88% 83% 1.3 0.110 0.147 0.225 23 69.7
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 35.0 x 50.0 87% 83% 1.3 0.114 0.161 0.226 25 75.8

46
 Hunter I-20 Pop-Up Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test
Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)
Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM
Nozzle Pressure GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 87% 80% 1.3 0.124 0.179 0.228 28 84.8
#3.5 40 3.03 Rectangular 30.0 x 55.0 86% 80% 1.3 0.110 0.171 0.242 26 78.8
#4 40 3.76 Rectangular 50.0 x 40.0 86% 83% 1.3 0.106 0.172 0.263 22 82.7
#4 40 3.76 Rectangular 45.0 x 45.0 86% 86% 1.1 0.125 0.169 0.263 22 82.7
#4 40 3.76 Rectangular 40.0 x 50.0 86% 83% 1.2 0.106 0.172 0.263 22 82.7
#4 50 4.26 Triangular 65.0 x 40.0 86% 77% 1.3 0.101 0.154 0.215 17 72.4
#4 50 4.26 Triangular 60.0 x 50.0 87% 83% 1.2 0.101 0.133 0.215 15 63.9
#4 50 4.26 Triangular 60.0 x 45.0 85% 77% 1.3 0.108 0.148 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Triangular 55.0 x 50.0 85% 78% 1.3 0.108 0.146 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Triangular 50.0 x 55.0 85% 77% 1.3 0.096 0.146 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 60.0 x 45.0 85% 79% 1.3 0.103 0.148 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 55.0 x 50.0 87% 81% 1.2 0.107 0.146 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 50.0 x 55.0 87% 81% 1.2 0.107 0.146 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 50.0 x 50.0 89% 80% 1.3 0.108 0.160 0.23 17 72.4
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 50.0 x 45.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.109 0.178 0.257 19 80.9
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 45.0 x 60.0 85% 79% 1.3 0.103 0.148 0.215 16 68.2
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 45.0 x 55.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.108 0.162 0.226 18 76.7
#4 50 4.26 Rectangular 45.0 x 50.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.109 0.178 0.257 19 80.9
#6 50 5.93 Triangular 65.0 x 50.0 88% 82% 1.3 0.100 0.170 0.228 13 77.1
#6 50 5.93 Triangular 60.0 x 55.0 89% 84% 1.3 0.100 0.167 0.228 13 77.1
#6 50 5.93 Rectangular 60.0 x 55.0 86% 81% 1.3 0.100 0.167 0.244 13 77.1
#6 50 5.93 Rectangular 55.0 x 60.0 86% 81% 1.3 0.100 0.167 0.244 13 77.1
#8 40 6.30 Rectangular 55.0 x 55.0 86% 82% 1.2 0.116 0.180 0.359 14 88.2
#8 50 6.90 Triangular 65.0 x 55.0 86% 77% 1.2 0.102 0.166 0.252 12 82.8
#8 50 6.90 Triangular 60.0 x 55.0 88% 82% 1.2 0.122 0.180 0.254 13 89.7
#8 50 6.90 Rectangular 65.0 x 55.0 87% 77% 1.3 0.097 0.166 0.239 12 82.8
#8 50 6.90 Rectangular 60.0 x 60.0 90% 82% 1.2 0.099 0.165 0.202 12 82.8
#8 50 6.90 Rectangular 60.0 x 55.0 90% 86% 1.1 0.125 0.180 0.294 13 89.7
#8 50 6.90 Rectangular 55.0 x 65.0 87% 77% 1.3 0.097 0.166 0.239 12 82.8
#8 50 6.90 Rectangular 55.0 x 60.0 90% 86% 1.1 0.125 0.180 0.294 13 89.7

47
 Impact Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test

Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Riser Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Sprinkler Nozzle Ht GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 30.0 x 30.0 95% 93% 1.1 0.207 0.232 0.268 48 142.6
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 35.0 x 30.0 95% 91% 1.2 0.153 0.199 0.238 41 121.8
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 40.0 x 30.0 93% 87% 1.2 0.137 0.174 0.198 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 45.0 x 30.0 92% 88% 1.2 0.117 0.154 0.194 32 95.0
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 50.0 x 30.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.099 0.139 0.194 29 86.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 30.0 x 35.0 95% 91% 1.2 0.153 0.199 0.238 41 121.8
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 35.0 x 35.0 93% 88% 1.2 0.120 0.170 0.208 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 40.0 x 35.0 91% 85% 1.2 0.106 0.149 0.185 31 92.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 45.0 x 35.0 92% 87% 1.2 0.102 0.132 0.164 28 83.2
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 30.0 x 40.0 93% 87% 1.2 0.137 0.174 0.198 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 35.0 x 40.0 91% 85% 1.3 0.106 0.149 0.185 31 92.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 40.0 x 40.0 91% 87% 1.2 0.104 0.130 0.166 27 80.2
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 30.0 x 45.0 92% 88% 1.2 0.117 0.154 0.194 32 95.0
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 92% 87% 1.3 0.102 0.132 0.164 28 83.2
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Rectangular 30.0 x 50.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.099 0.139 0.194 29 86.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 30.0 x 30.0 92% 90% 1.1 0.197 0.232 0.309 48 142.6
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 35.0 x 30.0 95% 90% 1.2 0.159 0.199 0.258 41 121.8
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 40.0 x 30.0 95% 92% 1.1 0.153 0.174 0.195 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 45.0 x 30.0 93% 90% 1.1 0.128 0.154 0.178 32 95.0
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 50.0 x 30.0 91% 87% 1.2 0.108 0.139 0.174 29 86.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 55.0 x 30.0 91% 87% 1.2 0.103 0.126 0.161 26 77.2
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 60.0 x 30.0 92% 89% 1.1 0.097 0.116 0.148 24 71.3
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 30.0 x 35.0 92% 88% 1.2 0.166 0.199 0.233 41 121.8
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 35.0 x 35.0 94% 92% 1.1 0.148 0.170 0.191 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 40.0 x 35.0 95% 91% 1.2 0.117 0.149 0.164 31 92.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 30.0 x 40.0 92% 87% 1.2 0.141 0.174 0.212 36 106.9
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 35.0 x 40.0 94% 90% 1.2 0.120 0.149 0.169 31 92.1
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 30.0 x 45.0 93% 90% 1.1 0.131 0.154 0.194 32 95.0

48
 Impact Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test

Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Sprinkler Nozzle Riser Ht GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 35.0 x 45.0 95% 92% 1.1 0.113 0.132 0.164 28 83.2
RB 14VH #6.5 WT 12 2.97 Triangular 30.0 x 50.0 92% 89% 1.1 0.110 0.139 0.194 29 86.1
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 30.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.150 0.202 0.289 32 96.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 30.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.133 0.182 0.289 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 30.0 87% 82% 1.3 0.113 0.165 0.289 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 35.0 91% 88% 1.2 0.179 0.222 0.332 36 108.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 35.0 89% 82% 1.3 0.134 0.195 0.269 31 93.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 35.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.124 0.173 0.257 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 35.0 89% 86% 1.2 0.118 0.156 0.257 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 35.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.105 0.141 0.257 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 40.0 89% 82% 1.3 0.134 0.195 0.269 31 93.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 40.0 88% 82% 1.3 0.127 0.170 0.223 27 81.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 40.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.111 0.151 0.214 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 30.0 x 45.0 89% 81% 1.3 0.150 0.202 0.289 32 96.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.124 0.173 0.257 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 45.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.111 0.151 0.214 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 45.0 90% 87% 1.1 0.095 0.135 0.195 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 30.0 x 50.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.133 0.182 0.289 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 50.0 89% 86% 1.2 0.118 0.156 0.257 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 30.0 x 55.0 87% 82% 1.2 0.113 0.165 0.289 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 55.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.105 0.141 0.257 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 40.0 x 30.0 93% 88% 1.2 0.189 0.227 0.316 36 108.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 45.0 x 30.0 92% 91% 1.1 0.173 0.202 0.264 32 96.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 50.0 x 30.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.131 0.182 0.228 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 55.0 x 30.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.127 0.165 0.221 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 60.0 x 30.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.124 0.151 0.212 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 65.0 x 30.0 89% 86% 1.2 0.106 0.140 0.2 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 35.0 x 35.0 92% 89% 1.2 0.187 0.222 0.296 36 108.0

49
 Impact Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test

Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Sprinkler Nozzle Riser Ht GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 40.0 x 35.0 96% 94% 1.1 0.176 0.195 0.217 31 93.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 45.0 x 35.0 93% 89% 1.1 0.134 0.173 0.203 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 50.0 x 35.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.108 0.156 0.196 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 55.0 x 35.0 88% 84% 1.2 0.097 0.141 0.189 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 30.0 x 40.0 88% 82% 1.3 0.158 0.227 0.289 36 108.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 35.0 x 40.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.147 0.195 0.257 31 93.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 40.0 x 40.0 93% 86% 1.2 0.116 0.170 0.194 27 81.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 45.0 x 40.0 89% 81% 1.2 0.101 0.151 0.182 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 30.0 x 45.0 88% 82% 1.3 0.150 0.202 0.289 32 96.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 35.0 x 45.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.141 0.173 0.257 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 30.0 x 50.0 89% 85% 1.2 0.144 0.182 0.289 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 35.0 x 50.0 92% 89% 1.1 0.127 0.156 0.257 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 12 3 Triangular 30.0 x 55.0 89% 85% 1.2 0.127 0.165 0.289 26 78.0
RB 30WH 5/32 SB 12 4.51 Triangular 45.0 x 35.0 86% 80% 1.3 0.174 0.236 0.433 28 126.3
RB 30WH 5/32 SB 12 4.51 Triangular 50.0 x 35.0 85% 79% 1.3 0.130 0.212 0.383 25 112.8
RB 30WH 5/32 SB 12 4.51 Triangular 45.0 x 40.0 94% 91% 1.1 0.158 0.206 0.358 24 108.2
RB 30WH #9 WT 18 4.92 Triangular 50.0 x 40.0 92% 86% 1.1 0.184 0.245 0.463 22 108.2
RB 30WH #9 WT 18 4.92 Triangular 45.0 x 45.0 90% 82% 1.2 0.158 0.242 0.473 22 108.2
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Rectangular 35.0 x 30.0 90% 85% 1.3 0.135 0.229 0.327 41 118.5
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Rectangular 30.0 x 35.0 90% 85% 1.3 0.135 0.229 0.327 41 118.5
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Triangular 40.0 x 30.0 88% 81% 1.3 0.149 0.200 0.266 36 104.0
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Triangular 45.0 x 30.0 88% 84% 1.2 0.129 0.178 0.231 32 92.5
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Triangular 35.0 x 35.0 88% 81% 1.3 0.150 0.196 0.261 36 104.0
RB 14VH 1/8" SB 12 2.89 Triangular 40.0 x 35.0 93% 90% 1.2 0.120 0.172 0.204 31 89.6
RB 30WH #9 WT 12 4.92 Triangular 50.0 x 35.0 87% 81% 1.2 0.172 0.247 0.481 25 123.0
RB 30WH #9 WT 12 4.92 Triangular 45.0 x 40.0 93% 88% 1.1 0.167 0.240 0.47 24 118.1
RB 30WH #9 WT 12 4.92 Triangular 50.0 x 40.0 85% 77% 1.3 0.136 0.216 0.47 22 108.2
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 30.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.180 0.239 0.344 29 87.0

50
 Impact Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test

Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Sprinkler Nozzle Riser Ht GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 30.0 88% 82% 1.3 0.147 0.218 0.344 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 35.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.157 0.228 0.311 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 35.0 89% 86% 1.3 0.152 0.205 0.311 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 35.0 89% 84% 1.3 0.141 0.187 0.311 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 40.0 89% 82% 1.3 0.168 0.224 0.286 27 81.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 40.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.149 0.199 0.271 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 40.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.117 0.180 0.255 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 40.0 89% 83% 1.3 0.112 0.163 0.232 20 60.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 45.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.157 0.228 0.311 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 45.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.149 0.199 0.271 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 45.0 90% 86% 1.1 0.127 0.177 0.257 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 45.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.113 0.160 0.238 19 57.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 55.0 x 45.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.102 0.145 0.209 18 54.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 30.0 x 50.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.180 0.239 0.344 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 50.0 89% 86% 1.3 0.152 0.205 0.311 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 50.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.117 0.180 0.255 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 50.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.113 0.160 0.238 19 57.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 50.0 x 50.0 91% 85% 1.2 0.111 0.144 0.209 17 51.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 30.0 x 55.0 88% 82% 1.2 0.147 0.218 0.344 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 35.0 x 55.0 89% 84% 1.3 0.141 0.187 0.311 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 40.0 x 55.0 89% 83% 1.3 0.112 0.163 0.232 20 60.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Rectangular 45.0 x 55.0 89% 83% 1.2 0.102 0.145 0.209 18 54.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 50.0 x 30.0 90% 84% 1.2 0.177 0.239 0.298 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 55.0 x 30.0 88% 83% 1.2 0.168 0.218 0.283 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 60.0 x 30.0 88% 85% 1.2 0.159 0.199 0.271 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 65.0 x 30.0 89% 86% 1.1 0.142 0.184 0.261 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 70.0 x 30.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.121 0.171 0.237 21 63.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 45.0 x 35.0 94% 89% 1.1 0.179 0.228 0.271 28 84.0

51
 Impact Heads
Overlap Uniformities from Profile Test

Better design layouts (CU > 87%; DU > 78%; SC < 1.2; Min in/hr > 0.095; Mean in/hr < 0.18)
Layouts meeting minimum criteria (CU > 85%; DU > 76%; SC < 1.3; Min in/hr > 0.095; Average in/hr < 0.25)

Spacing Industry in/hr in/hr in/hr Heads GPM

Sprinkler Nozzle Riser Ht GPM Type Spacing CU DU SC(5%) (min) (ave) (max) per acre per acre
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 50.0 x 35.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.144 0.205 0.255 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 55.0 x 35.0 89% 84% 1.2 0.130 0.187 0.249 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 60.0 x 35.0 90% 85% 1.2 0.121 0.171 0.237 21 63.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 65.0 x 35.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.114 0.158 0.227 19 57.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 70.0 x 35.0 91% 85% 1.2 0.114 0.147 0.209 18 54.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 40.0 x 40.0 93% 87% 1.1 0.156 0.224 0.256 27 81.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 45.0 x 40.0 90% 82% 1.2 0.133 0.199 0.234 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 50.0 x 40.0 87% 79% 1.3 0.116 0.180 0.22 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 55.0 x 40.0 87% 79% 1.3 0.113 0.163 0.209 20 60.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 35.0 x 45.0 91% 86% 1.2 0.187 0.228 0.311 28 84.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 40.0 x 45.0 91% 85% 1.3 0.116 0.199 0.232 24 72.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 45.0 x 45.0 88% 80% 1.3 0.113 0.177 0.218 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 50.0 x 45.0 87% 79% 1.3 0.113 0.160 0.209 19 57.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 55.0 x 45.0 87% 80% 1.2 0.107 0.145 0.209 18 54.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 30.0 x 50.0 90% 86% 1.2 0.190 0.239 0.344 29 87.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 35.0 x 50.0 93% 90% 1.1 0.174 0.205 0.311 25 75.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 40.0 x 50.0 91% 83% 1.3 0.112 0.180 0.233 22 66.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 50.0 x 50.0 86% 80% 1.3 0.097 0.144 0.209 17 51.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 30.0 x 55.0 90% 86% 1.2 0.168 0.218 0.344 26 78.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 35.0 x 55.0 91% 85% 1.3 0.106 0.187 0.311 23 69.0
WT G50W #6.5 WT 18 3 Triangular 30.0 x 60.0 85% 79% 1.2 0.137 0.199 0.344 24 72.0

Pressure for all impact head data is 40 psi.

RB = Rainbird; WT = WeatherTec.
Spacings listed for all data are industry conventions; reverse for cranberry.
Popup head data results from SpacePro Program (CIT), 10/26/04. Impact head data results from SpacePro Program (CIT), 5/3/05
Work funded by Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association and analyzed by NRCS.

52
 Application of Irrigation Water
Peter Jeranyama and Brian Wick
Water and irrigation management are crucial to loss from evaporation, run-off, and drift, which
cranberry cultivation (Eck 1990). Cranberries can amount to 30% of water that comes out of
can use up to 0.20-0.25 acre-inch of water per the nozzle.
day during the hottest, driest, windiest weather.
This would amount to one inch in four to five An evaporative demand study conducted by the
days under the most severe conditions. UMass Cranberry Station showed that for many
weeks during the season, most Massachusetts
Water management is arguably one of the most cranberry beds were too wet (Lampinen,
critical issues affecting the cranberry industry unpublished data). Therefore, most beds
for four major reasons: crop production, required less than the traditional one inch of
environmental concerns, costs, and regulatory water applied per week during some weeks.
scrutiny. There is an increasing demand for Some weeks in the mid-season had higher
water from other competing interests, and demand but by adding an inch per week early in
irrigation costs are increasing due to rising the season (when demand was less than one
energy costs. In addition to the horticultural inch), water applied got ‘ahead’ of the actual soil
reasons, there are regulatory and environmental moisture need and the beds ended up being too
pressures from the Massachusetts Department of wet.
Environmental Protection (DEP) concerning the
volume of water used, the risk of run-off, and Impacts on Plant Health. Water management is
related issues. important for maintaining healthy cranberry
plants. Excessively wet soils increase the
This chapter discusses the basic water needs likelihood of Phytophthora root rot, while
required by cranberry vines and the current tools excessively dry soils can promote fairy ring
available to the industry to assess soil moisture disease. Further, soil moisture can affect the
and available methods that provide water to the ability of the plants to acquire nutrients from the
vines. soil. When cranberry beds are either too wet or
too dry, it can lead to inadequate rooting and
leaf chlorosis, a condition known as yellow-vine
BASIC WATER NEEDS FOR syndrome (YVS), which occurs in part due to
CRANBERRIES nutrient imbalances.

A common practice is for vines to receive an

inch per week from either rain, capillary action IRRIGATION SCHEDULING
from groundwater, irrigation, or some
combination of these. If provided by irrigation, The cranberry industry does not currently have
it should be in at least half-inch increments to adequate scientific data to determine, with
ensure good infiltration into the soil. Bogs that confidence, what levels of moisture are optimum
are low in organic matter, or that have a t hick under varied local conditions (weather and soil
sand layer like those that have been renovated, types) nor how to properly monitor soil moisture
may need more frequent irrigation. conditions for the various soil types. In general,
Recommendations (DeMoranville et al. 1996b; the following bog types exist in Massachusetts:
Sandler et al. 2004b) are to irrigate in the early 1) new renovations and constructions (0-10
morning (when the plants are normally covered years old) with constructed subgrade below
with dew), so as not to extend the time that the sand, 2) renovated beds that have a peat/hardpan
plants are naturally wet (helps to reduce fungal natural underlayment beneath a thick sand layer,
infection periods). This practice also minimizes and 3) older beds, that have developed a layered

53
soil in the root zone, alternating sand and layers to irrigate, but they only measure the level of the
with root mass (organic layers). The layering water table and do n ot include any plant
structure of older bogs presents particular processes or plant evaporative demand. The
challenges to getting uniform contact with plants largely control the use of the soil water,
monitoring devices. Due to the variation in depleting it and triggering the need for
type, all monitoring and scheduling methods irrigation; this is a possible disadvantage to
may not work for all beds. relying solely on this technology. Wat er level
floats have the advantage that one can see the
Plants maintain hydration and internal level of the water table without walking onto the
temperature through a process called bog. Instructions for constructing a water level
transpiration in which water is moved from the float are available from the UMass Cranberry
soil, through the roots and shoots and out Station. In essence, the water level float is a
through pores (stomata) in the leaves. The plant PVC pipe attached to a marked stick (to indicate
can control the rate of transpiration through depth ranges) that floats within a perforated
control of the opening of the leaf stomata (pores) (larger diameter) PVC pipe that is sunk into the
to let the water out. A s this process occurs, bog (Lampinen 2000).
moisture is depleted from the soil.

Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI) is a measure of

plant transpiration calculated from temperature
and air dryness. In other crops, CSWI has been
correlated to yield, leaf water potential, and soil
water availability. S ince there is evidence that
cranberry has poor control over its transpiration
process, leaf measurements alone may not
sufficiently define CWSI for cranberry. There is
a need to use a ‘ cafeteria’ approach to
monitoring technology, using some methods that
include plant processes and others that include
the soil-water matrix, to quantify cranberry
water stress at different soil water conditions.
This information can then be used as the basis
for irrigation scheduling over a wide variety of
cranberry beds. Fig. 1. Water level float installed on a
commercial cranberry bog. P hoto courtesy P.
Measurement of water status in other crops is Jeranyama.
based on two technologies: 1) measuring the
amount of water in the soils and 2) measuring
the energy status (water potential) of the water. In a t ypical cranberry bog, water can wick up
In cranberry production, these two technologies through the soil to the roots of the plants from a
have been represented by water level floats and water table depth of up to 18 inches (Lampinen
tensiometers, respectively. et al. 2000). B y measuring the depth of the
water table, the water level float allows the
Two desirable characteristics of a sensor or an grower to quickly adjust that depth to maintain it
indicator of plant water deficit are: 1) an ability between the 18-inch limit and 6 inches (the
to detect whether or not a plant is, in fact, under recommended depth to avoid waterlogging in
a drought stress, and 2) an ability to determine the roots). Depth can be adjusted by using the
the severity or degree of the water stress. sprinklers to provide surface irrigation or by
moving water into the drainage system to
Water Level Floats. In cranberry, water level provide water from beneath (subirrigation).
floats (Fig. 1) have been used to determine when Generally, a combination of the two is best.

54
Water demand by vines can be assessed by because of the heterogeneity within soils, with
comparing the water level in the center of the single point measurements rarely being
bed to the water level in ditches to see if water is representative. A combination of a wide
moving fast enough across the bed. By distribution of soil moisture sensors may be
observing the water level float through several required as the basis for irrigation scheduling.
irrigation cycles, you can determine the number
of hours required for an adequate irrigation. At A tensiometer reading in the 2 to 5 cbar range
minimum, one float should be placed in the bed should be expected for a typical cranberry bog
center; additional floats can be installed at the soil as long as the water table is between 8 and
highest and lowest areas of the bed. 18 inches. This range is adequate for cranberries
(Table 1).
Tensiometers. A tensiometer is a sealed, water-
filled tube with a vacuum gauge on t he upper Some growers have not considered using
end and a porous ceramic tip on the lower end. tensiometers because they do not fully
A tensiometer measures the soil water potential understand what they will be measuring. In
(energy status) in the soil. As the soil around the other situations, growers have had limited
tensiometer dries out, water is drawn from the success with tensiometers as they require much
tube through the ceramic tip. This creates a fine-tuning and manipulation in order to work
vacuum in the tube that can be read on the effectively in cranberry soils. However, with
vacuum gauge. When the soil water is increased, some training and patience, tensiometers can be
through rainfall or irrigation, water enters the powerful tools to schedule irrigation.
tube through the porous tip, lowering the gauge
reading. Growers can then schedule irrigation
based on those readings. Table 1. Critical levels of tension for irrigation
scheduling on c ranberry beds (Lampinen and
DeMoranville 2000).

Water
Morning Midday table
tension tension level
--------cbars-------- inches
Too wet 0 to 2 0 to 2 0 to 6
Adequate >2 to 5 >2 to 10 >6 to 18
Too dry >5 to 80 >10 to 80 >18

Appearance and Feel Method. A lthough

measuring soil water by appearance and feel is
not precise, with experience and judgment, a
grower should be able to estimate the moisture
Fig. 2. T ypical tensiometer. Photo courtesy P. level with a reasonable degree of accuracy.
Jeranyama.
Soil probing (using a s lender metal tube to
extract soil to a depth of ~6 in.) can be used to
Measuring the energy status of water in the soil check on o ther monitoring methods and is
is valuable in providing a rigorous indication of especially useful in monitoring the depth of
the water availability to plants, with values that penetration of irrigation applications and
allow comparisons between a s et of growing rainfalls. Sometimes other problems, like
conditions. However, a general problem with compacted soil layers, can be detected from
estimation of soil moisture potential arises probing.

55
The following guideline is usually used on for cranberries and how it can be integrated into
coarse textured soils, sandy loams and loamy automated irrigation scheduling.
sands. If soil in the hand is 1) dry, loose, flows
through fingers - 0 to 25% available moisture, 2) Reduced water usage provides the biggest
looks dry, will not form a ball with pressure- 25 savings with automated systems. The savings
to 50% available moisture, 3) will form a loose vary depending on how the grower is using the
ball under pressure, will not hold together even system and the particular climatic conditions.
with easy handling- 50 to 75% available With an automated irrigation system, growers
moisture, and (iv) forms a weak ball, breaks are also able to save on f uel, labor, employee
easily, will not ‘slick’ (will not form a smooth safety, mileage and pump longevity.
ball) – 75 to 100% available moisture.
Sub-Irrigation. B est management practices
guide for Massachusetts cranberry production
WATER APPLICATION METHODS recommends manipulation of the water table by
controlling depth of water in the ditches. In so
Irrigation Automation. Irrigation automation doing, water needs in the root zone may be met.
can be of tremendous value if it based on tested Water level in the ditches is maintained at a
scientific technology. There has been a growing level that is adequate to supply water to the root
interest to automate irrigation systems in zone while still allowing adequate drainage from
cranberry production. This technology allows the center of the bed. I n some instances, sub-
growers to start their irrigation pumps remotely, irrigation may not be adequate to supply the
either through an internet or radio-based necessary amount of water to the plant in the
connection or they can have their pumps start center section of a bed or where a bog is not
automatically based on pre-set temperature level (out of grade).
thresholds. The latter is important when
protecting against frost injury. T he pre-set
thresholds allow growers to automatically start FINAL REMARKS
their pumps at the proper temperature to prevent
a damaging frost event. Soil-water measurement must be an integral part
of any irrigation scheduling. Soil-water
Automation systems have the greatest impact for monitoring can help conserve water, conserve
growers who need to travel to reach their energy, and produce optimum fruit yields.
pumping station (i.e., growers who do not live
next to their bog) or for those growers with Soil water status must be monitored for effective
multiple pumps and/or multiple locations. By irrigation water management. The soil acts as a
automating their pumping systems, growers bank, storing water for use by the crop. Soil
conserve time, which ultimately is conserving water measurement can help determine 1) how
water. The time savings enables growers to start much water is available in the soil for crop
their systems just at the right time to protect growth, 2) when to irrigate and 3) how much
their crop from a frost event or prevents the water to apply.
systems from running any longer than necessary
as they travel around turning off the pumps. All soil-water monitoring methods require
experience and judgment. Current Extension
As automated sprinkler systems are programs train and encourage growers in the use
implemented, growers will want to automate of known tools such as floats and tensiometers
irrigation scheduling based on soil moisture and for irrigation scheduling. A s new research
climactic monitoring. For this reason, current efforts identify new options for irrigation
research efforts are focused on p roviding management, education programs will focus on
evidence regarding what instrumentation works training growers in the use of the new methods.

56
 Chemigation
Hilary Sandler and Steven Ward
In cranberries, typical irrigation systems are delivery of chemicals through an irrigation
solid-set, high-volume delivery systems. T hese system. An irrigation system that is used for
systems consist of buried main and lateral pipes. chemigation has several pieces of specialized
Risers are attached to the buried pipes at equipment designed to provide safeguards
predetermined spacings. Rotating impact or during chemical applications. These include
popup heads can be used to deliver the water to (but may not be limited to): vacuum relief valve,
the vines. Most heads will rotate 360°, but part- interlocking pressure switch hookup, injection
circle sprinklers and sprinkler guards can be port, positive displacement pump, interlocking
used to minimize off-target application. The pressure switch, and a b ack-flow prevention
typical cranberry irrigation system emits fairly device (Fig. 1).
large droplets, which also helps reduce drift to
off-target areas. The systems operate at The time that it takes for water to move through
relatively high pressures, usually around 40-50 the sprinkler system has a great impact on the
psi. The layout and design of a system is critical effectiveness of the compound that is being
for maximal performance and should be chemigated. Three terms are typically used to
designed by an experienced professional. describe the movement of the water (and the
compound) through the irrigation system: rinse
time, wash-off time, and travel time. These
terms are sometimes used interchangeably or the
term ‘travel’ can be included in all three
definitions. The interchange of these terms can
be confusing. I n addition, these terms are also
used to measure the efficiency of irrigation
events, and these may vary slightly from the
measurement of chemigation events. In general,
irrigations are timed from the pump.
Chemigations can be timed from the pump or
the injection port, depending on t he distance
between the port and the pump. The times are
used to measure the irrigation system efficiency
and vary depending on water pressure (pump
Fig. 1. T ypical electrically driven chemigation rpm or irrigation line leaks).
system. A) check valve, B) low pressure drain,
C) air/vacuum relief valve, D) pressure switch, Another point of confusion may stem from the
E) interlocking system controls, F) solenoid use of the terms, ‘closest’ and ‘furthest’ head.
operated valve, G) chemical injection pump, H) Sometimes, the term ‘longest’ is used to
chemical line check valve (Harrison 2006). describe the last head that receives water, and
Some of these components may not be necessary sometimes ‘closest’ is interchangeable with
depending on pump elevation. ‘first’. The determination of these critical
timings is based on the first and last heads to
receive water. Anyone involved in timing a
In addition to providing water to the cranberry system should be aware that, depending on the
vines, irrigation systems can be used to apply design, the closest head to the pump may not
chemicals (pesticides and fertilizers). necessarily be the first head to receive water.
Chemigation is the term used to refer to the Likewise, the head furthest away physically

57
from the pump may not be the last head in the
system to receive water. Rinse time = Travel time + Wash-off time

Rinse time is comprised of two parts. The first,

travel time, is the time it takes water to move
from the pump to the first head in the system.
This assumes that the injection port is next to the
pump, which might not always be true. The
travel time can be shortened in some cases by
moving the injection point closer to the bog
rather than locating the port at the pump. The
second part, wash-off time, is the time it takes
water to move from the first head to the last
head in the system. This is the time sequence
that has the greatest impact on the performance
of the chemical injected into the system. If the
wash-off time is long, material applied early in
the delivery may be washed off the cranberry
leaves, reducing the effectiveness of the
chemical.

Another term used in chemigation is injection

time. Injection time is a totally separate process
and should not be confused with rinse, wash-off,
or travel times. This is simply the amount of
time needed to inject the material into the
irrigation system. Customarily, this time period
is 6 to 8 minutes. If chemigating with slow-
turning popup he ads, injection time should be
adjusted to coincide with 3 or 4 revolutions of
the heads.
Fig. 2. (Top) Irrigation line check valve, vacuum To make pesticide or fertilizer applications as
relief valve, and low pressure drain. (Bottom) effective as possible, it is important to minimize
Pesticide metering pump. Diagram and photos the amount of material washed off the leaves
courtesy http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/emon/ around the first head(s). To do this, the design
grndwtr/chem/chemdevices.htm. should aim to keep the wash-off time as short as
possible, targeting between three to four
minutes.
Terminology. Rinse time is the period of time
that it takes water to move from the pump or System Efficiency. Growers may be able to
injection port, through the entire system, to the qualify for economic benefits based on t he
last head. I t is important to know this time to performance of their irrigation system. Systems
properly flush the system during the final phase must have a uniformity coefficient of at least
of the chemigation process. T he grower can 85% AND achieve a minimum wash-off time to
confirm the rinse time with a dye test, note when qualify for USDA cost-sharing programs. F or
it changes as t he system wears, and adjust example, systems with wash-off times less than
accordingly. 8 minutes qualify for 50% cost-share; if less

58
than 5 minutes, the cost-sharing increases to other particulars, and of course, the grower’s
75% (L. Rinta, pers. comm.). preference.

Several factors influence the movement of water Safeguards and Protection. It is important that
through the irrigation system. These include: 1) the grower use the appropriate equipment (e.g.,
location of the water source and pump, 2) size screens, part-circle heads) to avoid treating
and shape of the bog, 3) overall layout of the sensitive areas like adjacent wetlands, water
main, submains, and laterals, 4) number of bodies, residential areas, public walking trails,
laterals and the number of heads on the laterals, the pump house, and roadways. T he injection
5) diameter and length of the main, submains, equipment must be in good working order and
and laterals, and 6) velocity limitations and properly calibrated. T his equipment must also
pressure losses from friction. meet the backflow prevention requirements of
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
The first two factors are fixed to some extent, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental
but the others can be controlled when the system Protection. A pplicators should wear proper
is designed. In general, system layouts that have protective equipment, be familiar with the
laterals directly connected to the main, a chemical’s label, and understand the correct
relatively large number of laterals, long laterals injection procedure. The Cranberry Station,
with lots of heads on them, and/or laterals with a independent consultants, chemical and
relatively large diameter, will have longer rinse equipment suppliers, and experienced
and wash-off times. applicators can help growers with the
information they need to comply with these
In contrast, comparatively shorter rinse and requirements.
wash-off times can be obtained with systems
that: 1) divide the bog into sections by creating New Chemistries. Many of the new pesticides
submains, 2) orient the laterals in such a way as that are being used in 21st century cranberry
to balance and minimize their total number and production are labeled for application rates
length, and 3) use as small a diameter of the within the range of ounces or grams per acre
laterals as v elocity and friction loss instead of quarts and pounds per acre. For these
considerations will allow. new compounds to work effectively, they must
be delivered through a sy stem that is operating
The pattern of the main and submains with short as efficiently as possible (good uniformity
wash-off times will look like an ‘L’, ‘T’, or in coefficients), with minimum wash-off times. An
the best pattern, like an ‘H’. These complicated efficient chemical delivery system is critical to
looking patterns are not necessarily more the grower’s ability to eventually harvest a
expensive than traditional designs. The layout sound and marketable crop.
chosen will depend on the designer’s expertise,
the size and shape of the bog as w ell as any

59
 Frost Management
Carolyn DeMoranville
Cranberries, like many other temperate crops, any time in the season. The ability to tolerate
are sensitive to below-freezing temperatures temperatures lower than 30ºF without damage
during the active growing season. T his depends on t he developmental stage of the
sensitivity is an important factor in cranberry cranberry plant.
management, complicated by the tendency for
temperatures on cranberry beds to be lower than Injury from cold temperatures can occur
those in surrounding lands. throughout the year. H owever, aside from
winter, the most critical times for cold injury are
Cranberry beds have traditionally been placed in the spring when flower buds are sensitive to
lowland areas such as swamps and marshes. In damage and the fall when fruit must be protected
recent years, beds have also been constructed in from freezing damage. Winter protection is
upland areas on mineral soils. However, all accomplished with flooding and is covered in
beds are constructed with the planted area at a the Flood Management chapter.
lower level than its adjacent surroundings. This
arrangement contributes to the development of In the spring and fall (and otherwise as
temperature differentials between the bog and conditions warrant), if temperatures are
the surrounding uplands (Demoranville 1997). predicted to fall below the level that the
Cold air drains from the adjacent high ground cranberries will tolerate without damage,
into the low areas on c lear, calm nights. In sprinkler irrigation (or rarely flooding) is used to
addition, the enormous amount of vegetation protect the tender tissues.
present on a cranberry bog is extremely efficient
at radiating heat under clear, calm skies -- a
process known as radiational cooling. D ue to FROST TOLERANCE
these factors, it is not unusual for bog
temperatures to be 10ºF colder than those of Spring Tolerance. During the season,
nearby non-bog areas. There may be as much as sensitivity to cold varies by plant part and
a 20ºF difference in some locations. How much developmental stage. During the winter dormant
the bog temperature will differ from that in the season, cranberries are cold hardy to
surroundings depends on several weather temperatures below 0ºF. A s the plants break
factors, including cloud cover, wind, and dew dormancy in the spring, the mixed terminal buds
point. In other words, the temperature become more sensitive to freezing temperatures.
differential from bog to upland is variable from Mixed terminal buds are those that contain the
night to night. structures that will become the flowers and the
vegetative growth above the flowers. Vegetative
The ability to predict the minimum temperature buds (those with no floral structures) often look
on the beds is one of the two most important more advanced than mixed buds. However, it is
factors for frost protection. The other factor is the tolerance of the mixed buds that is important
the ability of the cranberry plant to tolerate a in protecting the crop to come.
given cold temperature.
Mixed buds will survive exposure to
In addition to knowing how cold it will be on the temperatures of 12ºF and lower soon after the
beds, cranberry growers also need to know the removal of the winter flood. B y the time the
ability of the plants to tolerate freezing foliage shows signs of re-greening in mid-April,
temperatures. C ranberry plants will tolerate buds are injured when temperatures fall below
temperatures slightly below freezing (30ºF) at 18ºF. At this stage, the buds remain tight and
red (winter dormant color). As the buds begin to

60
swell, sensitivity increases dependent on the earliness and large buds of this cultivar.
cultivar. Cultivars with large buds (and large However, the other common early cultivar,
fruit later) tend to become sensitive earlier in Early Black, had the greatest cold hardiness in
their development compared to small-budded the early spring, often tolerating temperatures as
cultivars. F or example, Ben Lear and Stevens low as 15ºF. F lower bud populations on a
tolerate temperatures no lower than 30ºF once cranberry bog may be quite variable in the early
the terminal bud begins to elongate, while at that spring, with tolerance stages from 15-20ºF all
same developmental stage, Early Black and represented. By late April, both Stevens and
Howes will tolerate 27ºF. F rost tolerances of Ben Lear become more frost sensitive than Early
terminal buds during spring development are Black and Howes of similar developmental
listed in Table 1. stage. Frost tolerances of the newly released
hybrid cultivars, Grygleski-1, Demoranville,
Crimson Queen, Mullica Queen, and HyRed
have not been investigated thoroughly. In the
Table 1. Spring frost tolerances of cranberry absence of definitive information, it is assumed
terminal buds. Photos available in UMass that spring tolerances for these hybrid cultivars
Publ. (DeMoranville 1998). will be similar to those of Ben Lear and Stevens.
Appearance EB
Massachusetts cranberry growers sometimes use
of the bud & Howes BL Stevens
spring flooding (late water) for pest control.
Spring dormant 18ºF 18ºF 18ºF During these floods, the appearance of the
(bud reddish) terminal bud is arrested at the spring dormant
White bud stage 20ºF 22ºF 22ºF stage. H owever, internal changes continue to
(loss of dormant occur within the bud so that when the flood is
color in bud) removed, the buds must be protected at higher
Slight loosening 22ºF 25ºF 25ºF temperatures than would be expected based on
of bud scales appearance alone. Research (DeMoranville
(no bud swell) 1998) has shown that a one-week flood early in
the spring had no i mpact on f rost tolerance.
Bud swell 25ºF* 27ºF 27ºF However, the appearance of the buds will not be
2mm bud an accurate predictor of tolerance following
(cabbage head or popcorn stage)
floods of any longer than one week. E ven two
Bud elongation 27ºF** 30ºF 30ºF weeks of flooding led to loss of tolerance so that
(bud is growing out or up) the tolerance could not be predicted by the
appearance of the plants. Growers using short
Roughneck 30ºF 30ºF 30ºF
(more than half-inch new growth) duration late water floods (2-3 weeks) must
through bloom protect the vines for 27ºF (after 2 weeks) or 30ºF
(after 3 weeks or the standard 4 weeks) as soon
*After 5-7 days, increase to 27°F even if no change in
as the flood is removed.
appearance.
**After 5-7 days, increase to 30°F even if no change
in appearance.
From the roughneck stage of development
(>half-inch new growth), temperatures below
30ºF will cause damage to young cranberry
leaves and flowers. Newly formed green berries
are also sensitive to temperatures below 30ºF.
In experiments at the UMass Cranberry Station,
Ben Lear was the least frost tolerant variety in
Fall Tolerance. Henry Franklin (Franklin et al.
early April, rapidly losing its ability to tolerate
1943) reported that once the berries lost their
18ºF, often prior to the complete loss of dormant
green color and took on a white appearance, they
color in the buds (DeMoranville and
would tolerate exposure to temperatures as low
Demoranville 1995). This was likely related to
as 28ºF. A s the fruit surface developed a red

61
blush, the tolerance increased to 27ºF. A s the lower tolerance years are not yet predictable and
blush became uniform across the fruit surface, conservative figures are presented here (Table
26ºF was tolerated. D r. Franklin stated that 2). I n each of three years, cranberries showed
Early Black fruit could never tolerate tolerances at least as l ow as these for the color
temperatures below 23ºF, even when they had stages listed.
reached maximum color but that Howes could
tolerate 20ºF at full maturity and perhaps lower
temperatures very late in the season. It was also
noted that, within a variety, small fruit were Table 2. Fall frost tolerances of cranberry
more susceptible to damage than larger berries. fruit. Photos available in UMass Publ.
(DeMoranville 1998).
In 1994, a study began at the UMass Cranberry
Station to confirm late-season tolerances of Maturity Tolerance
Early Black and Howes fruit and compare those level EB H ST BL
with tolerances of the larger Stevens and Ben Deep blush 27ºF 27ºF 27ºF 27ºF
Lear (DeMoranville and Demoranville 1995). on exposed
We found that all four cultivars survived short surface
exposures to 23ºF in early October and longer
exposures by mid-October (exactly when in the Deep blush 26ºF 26ºF 26ºF 26ºF
month varied by year). Contrary to Dr.
Franklin’s findings, Early Black tolerated long Red 25ºF 25ºF 25ºF 25ºF
exposures to 18ºF at full maturity (3rd week
October) in 2 of 3 years. Further, Howes only Deep red 23ºF 23ºF 23ºF 24ºF
developed deep tolerance (18ºF) at full maturity
in one year of three. Ben Lear fruit were the Maroon 23ºF 20ºF 22ºF 24ºF
least tolerant among the cultivars studied, never (1-2 wk later)
surviving exposures below 23ºF. Stevens only
occasionally tolerated temperatures below 22ºF. Overripe 23ºF 23ºF* 23ºF* 24ºF
Frost tolerances of cranberry fruit are (end October)
summarized in Table 2.
*Loss of tolerance when overripe.
This study also noted that tolerance was lost late
in October of 1995 as the fruit became overripe.
This may have been exacerbated by the drought
conditions in 1995. H owever, it remains an In Massachusetts, there has never been a report
important finding and a point to remember if of serious frost injury to cranberry buds in the
harvest is delayed into early November. fall. The exception to this is beds where a
summer flood was held for pest control. O n
It should be noted that each cultivar reached a such beds, bud development is delayed and buds
given stage on a different date. Generally, Early should be protected in the fall despite the lack of
Black and Ben Lear develop color early and crop to protect.
Howes and Stevens develop color later. This
tolerance chart is based on color development,
which is used as a visual guide to ripening, a FROST FORECASTING
chemical and physiological process. In other
words, it is not the color per se that confers cold th
In the early part of the 20 century, the Weather
hardiness or tolerance but rather that the internal Bureau established observation and recording of
biochemical and structural changes that weather conditions in the cranberry growing
determine tolerance generally develop along areas of New Jersey, Wisconsin, and
with color. In some years, lower tolerances Massachusetts. B y 1920, D r. Franklin had
were found for a given color stage. However, developed formulas for predicting frost events

62
on cranberry beds in Massachusetts (Franklin et Air Masses. Cold air moving into the region
al. 1943). These formulas were developed by from Hudson Bay generally lasts only one night,
trial and error based on the available weather while a mass moving from the west with the
data and observations at several field high centered over the Great Lakes may bring
observation sites around the cranberry growing several nights of cold. The most dangerous
region. Franklin’s frost warning service was paid location for a high pressure cell is directly over
for by the growers who received the calls. the cranberry area or slightly to the south and
Today, this service is provided by the Cape Cod west. As the high approaches and the winds die,
Cranberry Growers’ Association to its members. quite cold temperatures may develop.

Franklin’s formulas continue to be used in the Clouds. High clouds are of little value in
present day, only slightly altered in form. T he preventing frost conditions (radiational cooling).
formulas predict the minimum temperature that On the other hand, low clouds persisting until
can be expected on average cranberry beds after midnight can be protective. T emperatures
under the ideal frost conditions--clear skies and often drop only one degree per hour after the
no wind. This forecasting is basic and quite clouds dissipate.
simple. H owever, where weather is concerned,
there are no sure bets. The Frost Warning Precipitation. Substantial rain (1 to 1.5 inches)
Service is just a warning to watch conditions within a day or so of cold conditions may
when the calculations and weather reports prevent temperatures from reaching the critical
indicate that critical temperatures may occur. level. However, this is not a sure thing.
Drought conditions increase the danger of frost.
All of the formulas depend on t emperature
readings at several locations. Important Timing. Critical temperature is often not
information includes the dry bulb (ambient) reached until near dawn in the spring. I n the
temperature, the wet bulb temperature (that of a fall, the critical temperature may be reached
wetted thermometer), and dew points (indicative quite early in the evening. L ate in the fall, the
of air moisture content). The prediction may be temperature may fall below the tolerance just
adjusted depending on wind and barometric after dark or even earlier.
pressure conditions.

FROST PROTECTION
GENERAL TIPS FOR USE IN
PREDICTING FROST EVENTS Preventing frost injury to the flower buds in the
spring and to the fruit in the fall is arguably the
Dew Point. With high dew points, the danger of single most important cultural practice in
frost is less. I f dew points around the state are cranberry production. F rost injury is the only
variable, canopy temperatures around the region hazard in cranberry production where major
will also vary. crop loss can occur in as little as one hour and
total crop loss in one night.
Wind. Cold wind during the day is a negative
influence; temperatures are lowered and the Frost injury is not always visible to the naked
wind often dies during the night, increasing the eye, but the symptoms can be noted upon careful
danger of frost. The presence of wind can examination. A mixed flower bud (terminal
prevent cold air from collecting in the bog and bud) that is injured in the early spring will
protect from frost but should not be relied upon exhibit a brown center when cut in cross section.
to protect through the night. If the wind drops This injury is visible in 24 hours. Subsequently,
on a clear, dry night, bog temperatures may drop the bud center will turn black. B uds injured
as much 10ºF in two hours. Winds of less than later in the spring may sustain injury only to the
10 mph associated with high pressure seldom vegetative portion of the bud. S uch buds may
hold through the night. go on t o produce flowers with no v egetation

63
above them. This appearance is termed freeze and release heat, the plants are protected.
umbrella bloom (Fig. 1). Berries that have Therefore, sprinklers do not need to run
sustained frost damage become opaque and soft. continuously to protect the plants but liquid
Such berries do not burst readily when squeezed, water must be present on the plant surface. But,
however. if the supply of liquid water runs out due to the
cessation of sprinkling and the freezing of the
water remaining on t he plants, the temperature
of the ice-encased plants will quickly equalize
with the temperature of the air surrounding them
and injury will occur. In fact, if all water freezes
and windy conditions develop, the ice will
evaporate and the tissue underneath will actually
lose heat and drop below the air temperature.
Research has shown that sprinklers applying a
minimum of 0.1 inches per hour are required to
afford adequate frost protection.

Sprinkler systems are activated when

temperatures approach the observed tolerance of
the plants. Therefore, the first rule of frost
protection is to observe the bog and determine
the tolerance. The system is then turned on 2-
3ºF above the tolerance. This will ensure that
Fig. 1 Example of umbrella bloom where the the bog is protected even if the monitoring
terminal bud i s severely injured or killed (by a thermometer is not located in the coldest spot on
frost event) and no vegetative tissue is produced the bog. However, all efforts should be made to
above the flowers. Photo courtesy C. locate monitoring thermometers at the coldest
Armstrong. parts of the bog. T he thermometers or sensors
should be placed at the level of the vine tips (the
tissue to be protected).
As early as 1 931 (Franklin et al. 1943), a
sprinkler system was in use for frost protection When using solid-set sprinklers, it may be
on a Massachusetts cranberry bog. B ut it was necessary to run the system at idle when
the serious frost of May 30, 1961, t hat provided temperatures are below 25ºF so that the sprinkler
the impetus for the rapid conversion to this heads will not be frozen when the time comes to
method of frost protection in Massachusetts. begin protecting.
Today, virtually all frost protection is achieved
through the use of low-gallonage sprinkler Once the action temperature has been reached,
systems. However, flooding for frost protection two options for frost protection with sprinklers
remains an option on very cold nights in early are available:
spring, when mechanical failures occur in the
sprinkler system, and just prior to harvest if the Option 1: Running through the night. Once
sprinkler heads have been removed. started (either manually or through the use of an
automated system linked to sensors), the
Protection from frost damage by the use of water sprinklers are run until at least sunrise or ideally,
sprayed on the plants (sprinkling) works because until after the sun has risen and the bog
of a basic law of physics. As water freezes, heat temperature has risen 2-3ºF above the tolerance.
is released. This phenomenon is known as the As the ice on the plants melts, heat is absorbed.
heat of fusion. Water freezes at 32ºF, two If the air is still cold, this heat will come from
degrees above the most sensitive stage of the the plants and damage may occur. This
cranberry plants. As long as water continues to phenomenon is even more extreme if the ice

64
evaporates in windy conditions rather than just will start and stop periodically based on the two
melting. set temperatures. I ntermittent sprinkling is
possible without automation but the grower
Option 2: Intermittent sprinkling. This option would have to monitor temperatures and
is most likely to be used by growers with manually start and stop the sprinkler pump in
sprinkler automation equipment. B ased upon that scenario.
on-bog sensor data, the equipment is automated
to start sprinklers at a start point set above the On rare occasions, shallow floods (just above
plant tolerance and run them until a set turn-off the soil surface) are used for frost protection.
temperature is reached. T he turn-off For a discussion of using floods to protect
temperature is set several degrees above the start against frost injury, see “Flood Management”.
temperature. Through the night, the sprinklers

65
 Flood Management
Carolyn DeMoranville
Cranberries are native to wetland habitats, injury is winterkill. S uch injury can occur
requiring plentiful water supplies for their within three days if the root zone is frozen to a
cultivation. During most of the season, well- depth of four inches, the air temperature is
drained soil is required for the development of below freezing, and strong drying winds (10
healthy, functional cranberry root systems. mph or greater) occur. I njury is prevented by
However, evolution in a wetland setting has protecting the vines with a winter flood, which
resulted in the ability of cranberry plants to should be in place when winterkill conditions
withstand periodic flooding without harm. In exist and should be deep enough to cover all
fact, cranberry growers use flooding as a vine tips, generally about 1 foot. It should be
management tool to protect the plants from the noted that for winterkill protection, deep and
cold, drying winds of winter, to harvest and uniform snow cover can substitute for a flood.
remove fallen leaves, and to control pests. In Beds that have not been harvested and new
the past, flooding was also used for frost plantings (first year) are less susceptible to
protection in the spring and fall and for winterkill but should still be protected in severe
irrigation in the summer, tasks that are now conditions.
accomplished using sprinkler irrigation.
Flooding is so important in cranberry cultivation The winter flood may be applied as ear ly as
that beds where flooding is not possible are no December 1 a nd should remain on t he bog as
longer considered profitable. long as winterkill conditions are present or
forecast. The flood may be delayed until
Because of the periodic need for sizable amounts winterkill conditions are forecast as long as t he
of water, impoundment of water adjacent to the plants are fully dormant. E xposure to
beds is a n ormal farming practice in cranberry moderately cold temperatures will encourage
production. M any cranberry growers have deeper dormancy leading to lower oxygen and
constructed reservoirs adjacent to their beds to carbohydrate demand and greater cold tolerance.
store the water needed for seasonal flooding and However, an early cold snap following a warm
irrigation needs. As a general rule, growers plan fall could lead to actual cold injury in the plants.
for up to 10 acre-feet of water storage capacity Under such conditions, the winter flood should
to meet all production, harvesting, and flooding be in place even before winterkill conditions are
needs even in drought years. T he actual reached. Generally, the flood should not need to
required capacity will vary depending on the rate be held any later than March 15. H owever,
of recharge of the water supply, the extent of holding the flood for a few days past that date
water recapture and reuse, and the efficiency of will not harm the vines.
the bog system. With the implementation of
appropriate BMPs, water needs may be reduced Historic research by Bergman (Franklin et al.
substantially. 1943), indicated that a lack of dissolved oxygen
in the winter flood water was the cause of injury
to cranberry plants, resulting in leaf drop and
FLOODING FOR WINTER PROTECTION reduced yield potential due to damage to
terminal buds, damage to young flowers in the
Cranberry vines may be injured or killed by buds, a weakening of flowers such that they
severe winter weather. The injury is classified failed to set fruit, and the production of small
as a physiological drought where moisture lost berries (possibly due to weakening of the flower
from the vines due to wind and evaporation ovaries leading to poor seed set). Plants, like
cannot be replaced due to freezing in the root animals, use oxygen in respiration. Thus, the
zone. T he common term used to describe this lack of oxygen could lead to plant injury.

66
Bergman stated that oxygen deficiency injury As wetland plants, cranberries can survive
may occur when oxygen levels in the winter periods of poor oxygenation during flooded
flood water drop below 4 mg/l (full oxygenation conditions. In particular, the plants can tolerate
= >10 mg/l). Bergman further stated that lack of low oxygen levels in saturated soil. However,
light penetration led to poor photosynthesis and survival under these conditions requires using
it was the lack of photosynthesis that led to poor carbohydrate (food) reserves. Plants with poor
oxygenation in the water. T he recommended carbohydrate reserves due to large crops, poor
remedy was to remove water from under the sunshine the previous fall, or other stresses may
iced-over flood if light penetration was poor. have less ability to tolerate low oxygen stress
and may show injury the next spring. I n those
cases, failure to prevent oxygen deficiency can
Removal of water from beneath the ice is
result in leaf drop, inability of blossoms to set
standard practice in Wisconsin and in cold
fruit, and crop reduction.
conditions in Massachusetts. In Wisconsin, the
remaining water is removed as soon as a thick
ice layer forms on the surface. Air then When oxygen falls below the critical level (~4
penetrates along edges and through cracks in the mg/l), the cranberry plants survive by switching
ice so that the vines are exposed to atmospheric from aerobic (oxygen-requiring) respiration to
oxygen. I f the flood remains unfrozen, as is anaerobic respiration, which does not require
often the case in Massachusetts and New Jersey, oxygen. This has two major consequences:
oxygen readily mixes into the water from the more rapid depletion of carbohydrate reserves
surrounding air. and buildup of toxic byproducts. U nder
anaerobic conditions, carbohydrates are only
Recent research in both Massachusetts and partially respired, generating much less energy
Wisconsin has caused a re-examination of for each unit of carbohydrate used. Because of
Bergman's theories and recommendations. this, the plants must use much more of their
Research by Justine Vanden Heuvel and Teryl carbohydrate reserves to generate enough energy
Roper showed that cranberries require very little to survive. The partially respired carbohydrate
light for photosynthesis and the light that is stored as organic acids. When oxygen is
penetrates snow or sand may be sufficient for returned to the system, these acids may form
this purpose (Vanden Heuvel et al. 2006). toxic compounds that can injure the plants.
Further, in a bog with a full layer of water Some alpine plants survive the presence of these
beneath ice, even with 9 inches of snow on the byproducts by a detoxification mechanism that
ice, oxygen in the water beneath remained at 8
requires the use of carbohydrates from reserve
mg/l or greater. In Wisconsin, covering ice with
stores. If carbohydrate reserves have already
black cloth, sand, or snow did not lead to leaf
drop or crop reduction in the plants below the been depleted, the plants may be damaged by the
treatments. I n Massachusetts, plants held toxins. T his may also be the case with
flooded in darkness and low oxygen did not cranberries.
show reduced carbohydrates (the product of
photosynthesis) or leaf drop. In any case, depletion of carbohydrate reserves
during anaerobic respiration (and possibly for
So what is the cause of the leaf drop that is detoxification) leaves the cranberry plant lacking
observed after the winter at certain beds? in the energy it needs for early-season growth.
Definitely, loss of leaves is a sign of some sort Poor growth in the spring may have an impact
of stress on the plants. It is unlikely that lack of on yield later in the season as well.
light is the cause. L ack of oxygen remains a
possibility if the levels actually become severely Since survival of the cranberry plants during
depleted. A likely scenario for this would be oxygen-deficiency conditions depends on
pulling the water from beneath the ice and carbohydrate reserves, any factor that leads to
leaving a sh allow layer of water in low spots. poor reserves going into the winter has the
The smaller volume of water could become potential to increase the danger of injury. Such
oxygen depleted where a large volume had not.

67
conditions include poor sunshine in the late LATE WATER FLOODS
summer and fall, and large yields.
In the early days of commercial cranberry
Using test kits or meters, oxygen levels in the growing in Massachusetts, growers used
water under the ice may be monitored. When flooding for pest control. With the advent of
oxygen-deficiency conditions exist, growers take readily available chemical pesticides, such
steps to reintroduce oxygen to the area cultural practices were generally abandoned.
surrounding the cranberry plants. When the With the resurgence of interest in farming with
oxygen drops to the warning level of 5 mg/liter, minimal pesticide use since the 1990's, interest
the water is removed from beneath the ice so in these practices has increased. O ne of the
that air can reach the plants. This lowers the ice common historic water management practices is
sheet onto the vines, flattening them but known as late water. Used in cranberry
apparently doing little or no real harm. It is production since the 1940’s, late water floods
critical that the water be completely removed, protected the bog from spring frost (the vines
such that no shallow puddles are trapped beneath were under water) and was found to reduce the
the ice. Vines that are trapped in such shallow incidence of storage rots, extending the shelf life
pools of water often show severe leaf drop in the of harvested fresh berries. However, late water
spring. at that time often meant holding the winter flood
continuously from early winter until late in May.
While the ice rests on the vines, daytime melting
followed by nighttime freezing usually In modern cranberry production, holding late
incorporates some of the vines in the lower water refers to the practice of withdrawing the
surface of the ice. I f it becomes necessary to winter flood in March and then reflooding the
reflood the bog to protect against the return of bog in late April for the period of one month.
winterkill conditions, the remaining ice will float Study of the use of late water in current
and trapped vines may be uprooted. G radual cranberry production at the UMass Cranberry
flooding will usually melt enough of the existing Station began in 1990 and has continued into the
ice so that the vines are released unharmed. 21st century (Sylvia and Guerin 2008). This
research has confirmed that late water can play
Once the water has been removed from beneath an important role in the management of mites,
the ice, the remaining ice may melt during a spring caterpillars, cranberry fruitworm, and
mid-winter thaw, leaving the vines exposed. cranberry fruit rot disease (Averill et al. 1994).
Beds may be left exposed as long as w interkill
conditions are not present. H owever, long After removal of a 30-day late water flood,
exposures to abnormally warm temperatures cranberry buds are sensitive to frost injury.
(>55°F) may lead to loss of chilling hours. The During late water, the appearance of the terminal
result could be a reduction in hardiness and bud is arrested at the spring dormant stage.
greater susceptibility to spring frost. Depending However, internal changes continue to occur
on the conditions prior to the winter flood, loss within the bud so that when the flood is
of chilling during a mid-winter thaw could also removed, the buds must be protected at higher
lead to reduction in bud break and flowering the temperatures than would be expected based on
following season. T his is especially true if the appearance alone. E ven after two weeks of
previous fall was warmer than usual, leading to flooding, the tolerance could not be predicted by
lack of chilling accumulation. To guard against the appearance of the plants. G rowers using
these possibilities, growers reflood their beds if short duration late water floods (2-3 weeks)
a long warm spell is forecast during mid-winter. must protect the vines for 27ºF (after 2 weeks)
The water will cool at night and re-warm slowly or 30ºF (after 3 weeks or the standard 4 weeks)
during the day, buffering against the warm as soon as the flood is removed.
daytime temperatures.
Flowers on late water beds open about 10 days
later than those on nearby early water beds. The

68
bloom period tends to be compressed and elongated uprights with little growth from lateral
synchronized. There are usually fewer flowers buds. However, organic producers often use late
per flowering upright and fewer flowering water yearly since it is an excellent option for
uprights on a late water bog. O ften, a larger controlling many key pests without chemical
percentage of flowers on late water beds set inputs.
more fruit than those on early water beds. The
newly set berries quickly assume a p ear-shape, It should be noted that on occasion, crops on late
and in maturity are conspicuously elongated in water beds are poor. A likely cause is depletion
comparison with the more spherical early water of carbohydrate reserves during the late water
berries. The berries in a late water crop tend to flood. Any factor that leads to low carbohydrate
be of uniformly large size. These factors explain reserves prior to the late water flood may affect
why late water beds yield as well as early water subsequent yield. P ossible negative factors
beds despite having fewer flowers. include: lower than average sunlight the
previous summer and fall, heavy crop the
Beneficial aspects of the use of late water: previous season, and winter injury.

1. Late water controls or suppresses insects The most important negative factor during a late
and mites including cranberry fruitworm, water flood is high water temperature. Research
early-season cutworms and Southern red by Vanden Heuvel showed that during a 4-week
mite. Southern red mite may be suppressed flood, cranberry plants lost significant amounts
for two seasons. of carbohydrate reserves when flooded at 68ºF
and very little reserves when flooded at 52ºF
2. Late water reduces the incidence of fruit (Vanden Heuvel and Goffinet 2008).
rot disease. F ungicide use for fruit rot
control can be reduced or eliminated in the Specific recommendations for management and
year of late water with no adverse effect on benefits of late water floods can be found in the
fruit quality. I n fact, late water beds had Cranberry Chart Book (Sylvia and Guerin 2008).
lower incidence of fruit rot at harvest and
after storage than early water beds despite
25-75% fewer fungicide applications. T he HARVEST FLOODS
number of fungicide applications and
fungicide rates can be reduced or eliminated The practice of harvesting cranberries in flood
in the year following late water as well. waters began in the late l960’s and now,
approximately 90% of the crop is harvested this
3. Late water floods reduce pressure from way. C ranberries harvested in water have
spreading perennial weeds particularly in the limited keeping quality, so berries are cleaned,
genus, Rubus (dewberries). dried, and either frozen or processed as soon as
possible after they are detached from the vines.
4. Late water floods stimulate cranberry
plant growth (upright length). F ertilizer Water harvest is a two-stage process. A shallow
nitrogen applications could be reduced 30% flood is put onto the bog and ‘beaters’ move
on late water beds with no impact on current through the vines to knock the berries loose
or subsequent crop. Larger reductions may from the plants. The water level is then raised
be associated with decreased crop the so that the berries float free of the vine tips and
following year. can be moved to an edge of the bed. The berries
are then removed from the water using pumps of
elevators and into trucks for delivery to the
Growers have reported that late water could be handlers (see Harvest chapter also). During this
used one year in three without yield reduction, activity, debris (stem pieces, tiny fruit, fallen
but more frequent use of late water led to leaves) that was stirred into the flood during
harvest is separated from the fruit.

69
In order to conserve water, harvest floods are harvest, followed by a gradual release that is
managed so that water is re-used to harvest as completed within 10 days.
many sections of bog as possible before the
water is released from the system. H arvest
water flow from bog to bog is planned so that, CLEAN-UP (TRASH) FLOODS
whenever possible, water is not moved from
diseased or weed-infested beds into clean beds. Water supplies permitting, dry-picked cranberry
If water supplies are limited in late September beds are flooded immediately after harvest to
and October, it is possible to flood for the rehydrate the plants, but primarily to remove
harvest over a period of a week without serious debris from the field. Dead cranberry leaves,
deterioration of the fruit. Rot develops rapidly twigs, and any remaining berries float to the
only after the berries are detached and floating surface and are wind-driven to the bog edge
on the flood surface. where they can be skimmed from the flood for
disposal. B y removing fallen cranberry leaves,
Generally, flood harvesting is used only after the the grower may not need to sand as frequently.
berries are well colored and flood waters have These leaves are a source of disease inoculum as
lost their summer heat. A survey of 29 harvest well as a habitat for insect pests and are best
flooded beds (Botelho and Vanden Heuvel removed from the bog. I f the water supply is
2006) showed that flooding for harvest can have adequate, a second trash flood may be applied to
a large negative impact on the carbohydrate remove additional debris. Trash floods may also
reserves in the cranberry plants potentially be used on w ater-harvest beds if conditions
affecting their ability to tolerate the winter flood warrant.
and yield in the following season. The most
negative impacts were associated with time of
flooding (earlier worse than late), temperature of LESS COMMON FLOODING PRACTICES
flood water (higher worse than cooler), oxygen
concentration in the flood (lower worse than Floods for Pest Management. Flooding can be
higher) and flood duration (longer worse than used to control insects or reduce weed
shorter). populations without the use of pesticides under
certain conditions (e.g., a 12-hour flood in mid-
Interestingly, flood duration is also of May can reduce populations of blossomworm
importance in regards to water quality in the and false armyworm). When such floods are
flood discharge. Before discharging harvest used, the depth of flood and duration of flood
flood water back to a stream, river, or pond, the are key. Failure to manage these floods properly
water is held for at least two days to allow may result in lack of control or damage to the
organic matter or other particles, along with plants and crop. Spring flash floods (2-3 days
associated nutrients, to settle out. However, maximum in the first half of May) were
holding the flood for an extended duration can generally not detrimental to the carbohydrate
lead to movement of phosphorus from the bog stores in the cranberry plants (Botelho and
soil into the flood water. In a field study, after Vanden Heuvel 2006).
approximately 10-12 days, phosphorus
concentration in the flood water increased Even with correct timing, certain floods for pest
substantially (DeMoranville 2006). L aboratory management will always reduce yields. For
studies confirmed that the phosphorus flush into example, long summer floods (May 12 t o mid-
the flood water was related to soil anoxia that July) for grub control or dewberry (running
developed during the flood (DeMoranville et al. bramble, Rubus sp.) reduction result in crop loss
2008). for that season.

Current recommendations for harvest water that Use of flooding in the fall for insect control on
is to be released to any phosphorus-sensitive cranberry beds was recommended as long ago as
water body call for a 2-5 day settling period after 1924. A t that time, a two-week flood for the

70
control of cranberry fruitworm was also be necessary if there is a failure in the pump
recommended. The fall flood was thought to that runs the irrigation system.
smother the insects in their pupal cases on the
floor of the bog. Inability to confirm this in the Probably the most important consideration in
laboratory in the 1950’s led to this practice flooding for frost protection is the fact that water
falling into disfavor. Recently, the use of the must be present on the soil surface under the
fall flood for cranberry fruitworm management cranberry vines before the occurrence of
was revisited (DeMoranville et al. 2005). critically low temperatures. T his requires sure
Holding the harvest flood for 3-4 weeks resulted knowledge of the length of time required to put
in 100% mortality of cranberry fruitworm the protecting flood in place. It is practically
hibernacula (overwintering forms). useless to apply the frost flood after the arrival
of critically low temperatures.
Fall flooding in late September for cranberry
girdler is an historic practice that remains a Early in the spring frost season, and until the
recommended option for its control. C ranberry frost tolerance of the cranberry buds is as high as
girdler can be controlled with a fall flood 25°F, the frost flood may be held over as a
beginning between September 20-30 and lasting safeguard against the frost hazard of the next
one week. night or two. The advantages of this
management in saving water and labor are
However, as n oted above, the risk of obvious. But later in the frost season when the
carbohydrate depletion is greatest in early new growth has lengthened to 0.5 i nches or
harvest floods and increases with flood duration. more, it is necessary to remove the flood
This should be considered when using fall floods promptly and early in the morning after a frost.
for insect management. In addition, long fall If this is not done and a shallow flood remains
floods carry the risk of mobilizing phosphorus on the bog during the heat of the next day, injury
and degrading water quality. is likely to occur. This appears as a wilting of
the new growth, and when this happens (even if
Flooding for Irrigation. Flood irrigation is no the wilting appears remedied), the flowers from
longer used -- sprinkler irrigation has replaced those wilted uprights will usually fail to set fruit.
this method. As part of irrigation management,
water is brought up i nto the drainage ditches to Flooding for frost protection in the fall is very
maintain a level water table beneath the beds unusual. However, a flood may be applied to a
(subirrigation) but not high enough to constitute bog a day or two ahead of harvest to protect it
a flood. from frost if the sprinkler heads have been
removed in preparation for harvest.
Flooding for Frost Protection. While sprinkler
irrigation is the method of choice for frost
protection, flooding may also be used for this SOURCE MATERIALS
purpose. Indeed, this was the standard method
prior to the introduction of sprinkler irrigation Cross, C.E. 1987. Flood and water management
systems. Today, it is rarely used. However, in on Massachusetts cranberry bogs. In: Modern
the early spring, it is a superior method if Cranberry Cultivation. U niv. of Mass. Coop.
temperatures are very low and below the bud Ext. Publ. SP-126, pp. 1-10.
tolerance and conditions are windy. Under such
circumstances, sprinkler heads will freeze up, Cross, C.E. 1965. The winter flood and early
and water cannot protect the buds. High winds water vs. late water on Massachusetts cranberry
can also distort sprinkler patterns, which causes bogs. In: Research into Action. U niv. of Mass.
some vines to remain unprotected. A flood may Coop. Ext. Publ. 435, pp. 7-12.

71
 Cranberry Cultivars
Frank Caruso

INTRODUCTION As certain selections gained notoriety or

popularity, they were eventually given a cultivar
Cultivation of the American cranberry, designation. S ome cultivars were selected in
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait., began in the early two different locations, and consequently, were
1800’s with the selection of vines from the wild known by two different names (e.g., Holliston
that possessed qualities considered favorable by and Mammoth). The cranberries discovered in
the collector. T hese vines were usually North America were initially divided into three
transplanted to a swampy area where they were groups based on general berry shape: 1) bell, 2)
cultivated and the berries were eventually bugle, and 3) cherry (Eastwood 1856).
harvested. As the vines produced more runners
and uprights, they were transplanted to other
sites by the original cultivator or given or sold to CULTIVARS GROWN IN THE
other individuals who desired the characteristics DIFFERENT PRODUCING AREAS
of that particular selection. This vine selection DURING THE EARLIER YEARS
process primarily occurred in Massachusetts,
New Jersey and Wisconsin, but limited selection As the cranberry industry began its
also occurred in Ohio, Michigan, Nova Scotia, development, there was initially a great diversity
and anywhere the plant was native. The plant is of cultivars in production in all regions. As the
not native to Oregon, Washington and British performance of certain cultivars proved
Columbia where significant acreage is now consistent over an extended time period
cultivated. (whether considering production, pest resistance,
color, quality, or other factors), more growers
The American cranberry is native in bogs from planted these cultivars and the acreage
Newfoundland south to North Carolina and west increased. T here was always a co nsiderable
to Minnesota (Dana 1990). A lthough a closely number of acres planted to natives in each
related species, Vaccinium oxycoccus L., the region, but these natives were diverse and
European cranberry, occurs in part of its range, probably consisted of quite a large number of
this other cranberry species has never been individual cultivars or genotypes. A s the
cultivated in North America. This latter species industry entered the 20th century and during the
differs in that it possesses smaller, pointed first 40 years of the 20th century, the following
leaves, more thread-like stems, smaller and more cultivars were particularly popular:
highly colored flowers, and smaller, round fruit,
which is often speckled. Massachusetts: Bugle, Centennial, Early
Black, Holliston, Howes, Matthews,
Blueberry is in the same genus as cranberry and McFarlin, Round Howes, Shaw’s Success,
offers health benefit traits that could Vose’s Pride.
complement cranberry’s traits. Crosses with New Jersey: Centennial, Champion, Early
blueberry have traditionally failed to produce Black, Howard Bell, Howes, Natives
viable offspring (e.g., V. corymbosum x V. (Jerseys).
macrocarpon). However, recent research Wisconsin: Bennett Jumbo, Berlin, Howes,
indicated recovery of a viable hybrid between V. McFarlin, Metallic Bell, Natives (Bell,
darrowi (field evergreen blueberry) and a V. Cherry), Prolific, Searles.
oxycoccus x V. macrocarpon interspecific
hybrid (Vorsa et al. 2008). British Columbia, Oregon, Washington:
McFarlin.

72
Cranberry acreage also existed in Maine, New FALSE BLOSSOM DISEASE
York, and Rhode Island using the cultivars
popular in the northeast. The disease false blossom, caused by a
phytoplasma and vectored by t he blunt-nosed
leafhopper, Euscelis striatulus, forever changed
CULTIVARS CURRENTLY GROWN IN the cultivar situation in all growing areas with its
THE DIFFERENT PRODUCING AREAS arrival on t he scene in the early 1900’s. T he
disease apparently originated in Wisconsin and
Cultivars with significant acreage in the was introduced to Massachusetts and New
different growing areas are listed in the box Jersey on imported vine cuttings. By 1915, the
below (data collected via pers. comm. with disease was causing a si gnificant impact on the
regional cranberry scientists, Fall 2007). C hile production in both areas. Studies were initiated
is listed in the table but no percentage estimates to determine the cause of the disease (originally
were available from other cranberry scientists. categorized as a viral pathogen), different
aspects of its etiology and epidemiology, its
Stevens has emerged as a popular hybrid release, means of spread, and control strategies
with many new and renovated beds being (Dobroscky 1931). It was noted that cultivars
planted to this cultivar (Roper 1999; Roper showed great diversity in their susceptibility to
2001). B en Lear, a n ative Wisconsin selection the disease in the field. I n 1931, N.E. Stevens
that was nearly discarded as an unacceptable (Stevens 1931) summarized the common
genotype earlier in the 20th century, has also cultivars as outlined on the following page.
become very popular in some growing areas.

Percentages of acreage of varieties grown in various cranberry regions in the U.S. and Canada.

Variety (% of acreage)
z
Location Early Black Howes Stevens Ben Lear McFarlin Pilgrim Searles Crowley Bergman Others
MA 40 30 15 5 • • • • • 10
WI • • 60 10 5 5 12 • • 8
NJ 50 3 28 12 • • • • • 7
WA • • 45 • 40 8 • • • 7
OR • • 77 • 7 3 • 4 • 9

BC • • 65 5 6 4 • • 17 3
Quebec • • 76 13 • 7 • • • 4
NB • • 90 5 • 4 • • • 1
NS 6 • 58 15 • • • • 12 9

Chile • • X X • X • • X •

X = varieties grown but exact percentages unknown.

• = either not grown or negligible.
z
Small acreages exist in Maine, Michigan, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland, planted
with the cultivars listed above.

73
 Range of varietal susceptibility to false Prolific, Searles, Shaw’s Success, Stanley, and
blossom: Whittlesey. E arly Black and McFarlin were
used in a l arge majority of the crosses due to
Susceptible: Bell, Berlin, Centennial, their resistance to false blossom. S haw’s
Howes, Metallic Bell, Palmeter, Prolific, Success was found to be even more resistant
Searles, Wales Henry than McFarlin in evaluations subsequent to N.E.
Stevens’ evaluations, and this was an important
Moderately susceptible: Bennett Jumbo, parent as well.
Vose’s Pride
To obtain crosses between two cultivars, pollen
Moderately resistant: Early Black from the flowers of one was applied to the
stigmas of flowers of the other, and the resulting
Resistant: McFarlin seeds, each carrying characters from both
parents in various combinations, were grown to
maturity to give expression to the characters
This resistance was primarily due to the resulting from the crosses. T here were 10,797
preference of the leafhopper to feed on the seedlings at the start of the program from
cranberry tissue of the different cultivars, rather crosses made in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and
than resistance to the pathogen itself. Producing Wisconsin. The seedlings were planted in field
acreage in both Massachusetts and New Jersey trials in New Jersey and Wisconsin. The
declined due to the serious incidence of the primary nursery was at Whitesbog, NJ at the
disease and affected beds with susceptible Joseph J. White Company because the disease
cultivars were replanted with more resistant pressure from false blossom was highest in New
cultivars. Howes acreage, in particular, declined Jersey (Wilcox 1932). S eedlings that looked
from this point onward in New Jersey. A s a promising were planted at the nursery at the
result, there is very little acreage planted to this Biron Cranberry Company in Biron, Wisconsin
cultivar today in New Jersey. The damage (Peltier 1970). A pproximately 1,600 s eedlings
caused by false blossom also sparked quite an fruited in 1938-1939.
interest in the development of a cranberry
breeding program. Records were kept of vine type and vigor,
productivity, berry size, berry shape, and berry
appearance, susceptibility to field rot, and
USDA CRANBERRY BREEDING keeping quality (or storage rot) of the fruit (Bain
PROGRAM 1940). They were also tested to determine their
relative attractiveness to the blunt-nosed
Because different degrees of field resistance to leafhopper. In this cafeteria test, caged blunt-
false blossom disease existed in known nosed leafhoppers had the choice of feeding on
cranberry cultivars, a b reeding program was the test seedlings or two named cultivars used as
deemed necessary for long-term management of a standard. The number of insects feeding on
the disease. In 1929, the USDA started the test seedlings in a day was compared to the
programs in cranberry breeding in cooperation number feeding on the standard cultivars. These
with the agricultural experiment stations in New standards included Early Black, Howes,
Jersey (under the direction of C.S. Beckwith), McFarlin, and Shaw’s Success.
Massachusetts (under H.F. Bergman), and
Wisconsin (under H.F. Bain). The initial crosses The first selection of 40 s eedlings (numbered
were made during 1929-1931 by Bain and selections from #1 - #40) was made in 1938-
Bergman using the following cultivars as 1940, and in 1943 another 93 seedlings (lettered
parents: Aviator, Bennett Jumbo, Berry Berry, selections designated as AA, AB, AC, etc.) were
Centennial, Early Black, Howes, Mammoth selected for further study (Chandler et al., 1947).
(Holliston), McFarlin, Paradise Meadow, Potter, Some of the promising seedlings of both
collections were initially planted at a bog located

74
at Oak Swamp of the A.D. Makepeace Co. in specific gravity lighter than Early Black and
Wareham, MA in the 1940’s. These same much lighter than Howes; high resistance to
seedlings were eventually planted at State Bog false blossom; seeds per gram of berry weight
of the UMass Cranberry Station in East less than Early Black, but more than Howes.
Wareham, MA in 1959.
Stevens. Cross of McFarlin and Potter; No. 33
of the 40 s elections; ripens a few days before
Howes; shape round-oval; no bl oom on be rries
(occasionally a light bloom); stem end broadly
rounded; stem pit large; color deep red; calyx
end broadly rounded to slightly protruding;
vines coarse texture; tall uprights; leaves
medium green and large; cup count 65-85;
keeping quality good to very good; only fair
coloring in storage; production excellent; vines
vigorous; good juice yield; low pectin content;
specific gravity less than Early Black and
Howes; many seeds; less resistant to false
blossom than Early Black but more resistant
than Howes.

Wilcox. Cross of Howes and Searles; No. 36 in

Fig. 1. Cross-sectional diagram of a cranberry the 40 selections; ripens a little later than Early
flower, showing four large anthers (top portion Black; shape oval; berries without a bloom, but
of stamen that holds the pollen; male part), 3 of may have a bloom around calyx; stem end
5 petals, lower portion of the style (female part, pointed; stem pit small; color deep red, but is
stalk in center) connected to an inferior ovary sometimes striped or mottled; calyx rounded to
with seeds. Courtesy unknown. slightly protruding; calyx lobes open; vines
medium coarse texture; tall uprights; leaves
medium size and dark green; cup count 73-98;
HYBRID CULTIVARS keeping quality fair; fair coloring in storage;
production very good; average range of seed
Three of the first 40 seedlings selected were counts 8-12; medium juice yield; medium
shown to be promising enough in test plots in weight (similar to Early Black); resistant to false
New Jersey (Whitesbog and Pemberton) that blossom.
they were formally named Beckwith (#15),
Stevens (#33) and Wilcox (#36). There were Because effective control strategies (primarily
very little data on these three seedlings from test insecticides) were established to control false
plots in Massachusetts, Washington and blossom disease through the management of the
Wisconsin when they were named. The three leafhopper vector, the emphasis in the breeding
hybrids are described below: program in the late 1940s shifted to the
development of cultivars that possessed superior
Beckwith. Cross of Early Black and McFarlin; yield, larger-sized berries, and excellent fruit
No. 15 of the 40 s elections; ripens late; shape quality. Other qualities of interest were early
oblong-oval; no bloom on the fruit; stem end ripening, high sugar content, low acid content
broadly rounded; stem pith large; color deep red and large amounts of anthocyanins. Towards
and glossy; calyx end rounded; calyx lobes this end, in 1959, more crosses were made using
medium and open; cup count 50-60; vines Black Veil for low acid and early maturity of
medium with tall uprights; production poor; fruit, Centerville for high total sugars and a
poor coloring in storage; keeping quality good; pleasing flavor, Centennial for high total sugar,
medium juice yield; average pectin content; Stanley for high total sugar and an excellent

75
yield, Selection 28 for pleasing flavor, Selection have a fine texture with uprights of medium
8 for excellent yield and earliness, and Searles length; few runners; leaves medium size,
for excellent yield (Chandler and Demoranville medium green and hug the stem (similar to false
1961b). blossom uprights); production high; good
coloring in storage; good storage for late
shipping; susceptible to field rot; average pectin
Definition of Descriptive Terms content; average juice yield; specific gravity
similar to Early Black; resistant to false
Accession: unique identifier given to a blossom; makes a good whole berry sauce.
seedling cross resulting from two cultivars.
Bloom: waxy exterior coating. Franklin. Cross of Early Black and Howes; No.
Calyx end: part of the fruit opposite of the 31 in the 40 selections; ripens early; shape
stem end; part of the flower consisting of the nearly round; no bloom (or very light bloom) on
sepals. berries; color red to very dark red; berries
Calyx flaps: tissues found around the calyx glossy; cup count 57-90; stem end rounded; stem
end. pit very small; calyx lobes small and open; calyx
Clone: vegetatively propagated plant end somewhat flattened; vines medium texture;
material; plants coming from a single plant. medium length uprights and few runners;
Cup count: number of berries that fit into keeping quality good to excellent; colors very
an industry standard cup. The lower the cup well in storage; production very good; low juice
count, the larger the berry. yield; very high pectin content; makes an
Genotype: genetic composition of an excellent strained sauce and a very good whole
individual. sauce; berry weight similar to Early Black;
Germplasm: a collection of genetic similar to Early Black in resistance to false
resources for an organism. blossom; has a high seed count (12-19).
Phenotype: physical appearance of an
Pilgrim. Cross of McFarlin and Prolific; No. 17
individual.
of the 40 selections; ripens late; shape oval,
Specific gravity: the ratio of a density of a
similar to McFarlin but without the strongly
solid or liquid to the density of water. High
protruding calyx; moderate to heavy bloom on
SG will sink in water; low SG will float.
berries; stem end broadly rounded; deep red,
Stem pith: the tissue occupying the center
almost purplish with a yellow undercolor; calyx
of the stem within the vascular cylinder,
end slightly protruding; vines with a coarse
usually the parenchyma, although other
texture; medium to tall uprights; large leaves;
types of cells may also occur.
cup count 43-66; keeping quality good;
Stolon: a stem that grows horizontally on
susceptible to field rot; good coloring in storage;
the ground; runner.
very good production; high juice yield; low
pectin content; makes a juicy strained sauce;
In 1961, t hree more seedlings from the original resistant to false blossom; light specific gravity;
40 selections were named: Bergman, Franklin, may possess some frost resistance.
and Pilgrim (Chandler and Demoranville Washington initiated a breeding program in the
1961c). U nlike the first three releases, these early 1940’s through the supervision of D.J.
three cultivars were especially productive under Crowley, the superintendent of the Coastal
Massachusetts conditions. These three hybrids Washington Research and Extension Unit,
are described below: which was revived in the early 1960’s. One of
Bergman. Cross of Early Black and Searles; the original 13 seedlings selected from the early
No. 8 i n the 40 s elections; ripens mid-season breeding program was named Crowley and
(between Early Black and Howes); shape short released by Washington State University in
pyriform; no bloom on fruit; color bright red and 1970.
glossy; very attractive; cup count 65-80; vines

76
Crowley. Cross of McFarlin and Prolific; WSU Demoranville 1958; Chandler and Demoranville
No. 72; ripens early; shape round-oblate; light 1961c; Roper 2001).
bloom on be rries; stem end rounded; color
generally dark red; calyx end flattened; cup
count 60-70; vines medium texture; excellent
producer; susceptible to field rot; poor keeping
quality; berries fairly heavy; medium to good
juice yield; high anthocyanin counts.

This was the last hybrid released from any

cranberry breeding program until 2003 when the
breeding program of Dr. Brent McCown in the
Department of Horticulture at the University of Demoranville
Wisconsin released the cultivar HyRed. This
breeding program was established in 1990 with
the goal of developing cultivars for Wisconsin
and other regions with short growing seasons.
These hybrid cultivars should produce
dependably high yields of early-maturing, high
color fruit. HyRed originated from a cross of
Stevens and a se edling selection designated as
Ben Lear #8 that was selected for its early color
and high fruit bud set in 1993 (McCown and Crimson Queen
Zeldin 2003). The fruit ripen early, are elliptical
in shape often blocky with squared shoulders,
are deep red in color, and the vines are very
vigorous in nature.

Although cultivar evaluations still exist in

Massachusetts, Wisconsin and Washington, the
only formal cranberry breeding program is at the
Rutgers Blueberry and Cranberry
Research/Extension (Marucci) Center in
Chatsworth, NJ. Dr. Nicholi Vorsa currently Mullica Queen
oversees the breeding program that was formerly
directed by Dr. Eric Stone during the late 1970’s Fig. 2. B erries of the three newly released
- early 1980’s. The Rutgers breeding program varieties from the Rutgers breeding program.
has amassed a large collection of cranberry Photo courtesy N. Vorsa.
cultivar germplasm from cultivated beds as well
as wild native beds. The major objectives of the
program are to obtain reliable productivity, good Three new cultivars bred at Rutgers were
anthocyanin production, stolon and upright released in 2006. The first of these, Crimson
vigor, soluble solids (°Brix), titratable acidity, Queen, resulted from a cross between Stevens
proanthocyanidin content and resistance to the and Ben Lear in 1988, was first established in
important fruit rot fungal pathogens in the field in 1993 and has been evaluated for 12
Massachusetts and New Jersey (Johnson- years in multiple locations. It was specifically
Cicalese and Vorsa 2006). I t is important to selected for its high yield, good anthocyanin
realize that it takes a v ery long time (decades) production and higher stolon vigor. A second
from the point of initial crosses to the time that new cultivar, Mullica Queen, resulted from a
new varieties are released (Chandler and cross between LeMunyon and #35 (one of the
original 40 s elections in the USDA breeding

77
program) and represents a genetic composition clones are also maintained as t issue cultured
totally unrelated to Crimson Queen. This plantlets as a se condary short-term back-up.
cultivar also offers excellent yield potential with These plantlets can be stored under refrigeration
good anthocyanin production, excellent runner for as much as five years without reculturing.
vigor and fruit rot resistance equal or better than The plant material is preserved for long-term
Stevens. The third new cultivar, Demoranville, storage by freezing tiny shoot meristems and
resulted from a cross between Franklin and Ben pollen in liquid nitrogen. The meristems are
Lear. Similar to the other two new cultivars, this first pretreated with a cryoprotectant (an
one offers excellent fruit production, superior antifreeze agent), and then frozen in a v ery
anthocyanin levels, but may have the least fruit controlled manner before being plunged into
rot resistance (Vorsa, pers. comm.). liquid nitrogen. I n liquid nitrogen (-196°C),
plant tissue can be stored indefinitely in a st ate
Three selections named Grygleski-1 (a.k.a. GH- of suspended animation.
1), Grygleski-2 and Grygleski-3 were made by
Wisconsin cranberry grower Ed Grygleski from The Corvallis Repository distributes limited
crosses of Rezin and Searles in 1980 and quantities of plant materials for research and
selected in 1982. They incorporate the desirable breeding. C ranberry clones can be shipped as
characteristics noted in the newer cultivars from dormant season cuttings or tissue culture
New Jersey. plantlets. Seed is available for species
accessions. The Repository has an active plant
Individual native selections and the initial hybrid pathology program, and pathogen testing status
releases chosen from the 130 k nown named of a specific accession can be provided upon
cultivars (Eck 1990) are summarized in Table 1. request. These plantlets can be sent to scientists
When information is unknown or throughout the world who wish to use them for
undocumented, (**) denotes this omission. This subsequent research projects.
table has been adapted from Chandler and
Demoranville (Chandler and Demoranville It is essential that the genetic material of each
1958). cranberry cultivar be maintained in this fashion
for the long-term. S ome of the less desirable
cultivars may possess the gene for a p articular
PRESERVATION OF GERMPLASM character (e.g., insect resistance, disease
resistance, etc.) that would forever be lost were
Many cranberry cultivars are being preserved it not preserved. T hat gene may be very
and maintained at the USDA-ARS National important in the future.
Clonal Germplasm Repository, Corvallis,
Oregon. In addition to obtaining plant material
of the native selections and hybrids from DNA FINGERPRINTING
cranberry researchers, wild collections have also
been made from several locations within the Some cranberry beds in Massachusetts and New
range for V. macrocarpon. A s of 2007, 70 Jersey have the same vines that were planted
cultivars and 140 w ild selections are in the more than 100 y ears ago. If a bog i s sanded
collection (K. Hummer, pers. comm.). Native regularly, the weed populations are limited, and
cranberries (presumably V. macrocarpon and V. production is consistently good, there is no
oxycoccus) have been collected from the reason why renovation of the bog is necessary.
northern United States, Alaska and Siberia. Because cuttings from hundreds (if not
thousands) of plants were originally used to
The primary collection of cranberry clones are plant the bed, there was no true genetic
maintained as potted plants under screen and uniformity even when the bed originated. Also,
some are located in field plantings in 1 x 1.5 m vines pruned from one bed may respond and
wooden framed plots. Species seeds are stored grow very differently when they are planted in
in envelopes in freezers maintained at -7°C. The

78
two beds having very different environments sequences of 10 nucleotides (a nucleotide
(e.g., upland versus wetland sites). consists of a sugar molecule, attached to a
phosphate group at one end and one of four
Furthermore, the cranberry cultivar may undergo bases attached to the other end) as primers to
changes during the life of the bog. M any target cranberry DNA from individuals under
cranberry fruit are left in the leaf trash layer after analysis. T his procedure generated DNA band
harvest, despite the presence of a flood for patterns that can uniquely identify or fingerprint
harvest, trash flow, or winter protection. The a particular cultivar.
seeds in these fruits will often germinate, and
although these offspring are similar to the parent In one study, 22 cultivars were analyzed using
cranberry plants, they may be different for RAPDs. Only 17 un ique cultivars were
certain characteristics. Once these seedlings identified, which indicated that several cultivars
have matured enough to exchange pollen with were misidentified when using their physical
other plants, further genetic variation will result traits (Novy and Vorsa 1995). Another study
in the offspring. compared the four most common cultivars:
Early Black, Howes, McFarlin, and Searles.
Some of these volunteer seedlings may be more These four cultivars accounted for over 80% of
vigorous than the surrounding plants and they the total commercial cranberry acreage in 1990
may rapidly overgrow the cranberry bed, (Eck 1990). Of eight clonal accessions of Early
resulting in a very different population of plants Black, five distinct fingerprints were obtained.
than was present 10 to 15 years earlier. Of seven clonal accessions of Howes, five
unique fingerprints were obtained. Of six clonal
Cranberries are not available from nurseries in accessions of McFarlin, results were
true genetic stock as ar e blueberries, grapes, inconclusive, but a subsequent larger sample of
raspberries, strawberries or other small fruits. 64 accessions yielded 15 DNA fingerprints
The methods by which the vines are moved (Novy et al. 1996). T wo clonal accessions of
around the industry (intrastate and interstate) Searles were found to be unrelated to each other
and by which they are propagated, means that it (Vorsa and Novy 1995a).
is highly likely that there is much genetic
diversity for different strains that appear to be These results confirmed that a cranberry cultivar
the same cultivar. Until recently, cranberry may be actually comprised of several genetic
cultivars could only be identified by their variants, primarily due to volunteer seedlings
qualitative traits, such as fruit shape, fruit size, becoming established in a cranberry bed. These
fruit color, and vine and leaf texture (although variants may possess less desirable characters
this latter characteristic is more difficult for the such as reduced productivity, fruit rot
untrained eye). susceptibility, and others. I t also raises the
question: What is a true McFarlin or Early
Scientists can now identify differences among Black? Wh at is disturbing is that two cultivar
individuals or genotypes using biochemical accessions appeared to produce berries that were
markers. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) analysis identical in appearance, yet based on the DNA
has proven to be a useful means of fingerprints, they were not even closely related.
differentiating between cultivars of a wide There is much sorting out of the cultivar
variety of different plants. The environment has situation needed at this point, and it may get
very little direct impact on the DNA in an more confusing before the picture gets clearer
individual. O ne method of DNA analysis that again.
has proven to be very useful is termed Random
Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD)
technology. RAPD analysis uses small DNA FUTURE DIRECTIONS AND PROSPECTS
chains having various nucleotide sequences
called primers that serve as probes. Vorsa and It is important that the cranberry industry
Novy (Vorsa and Novy 1995b) used particular diversify the cultivars that are planted in each

79
growing region. Despite the confusion raised by pesticides may also not be consistent from year
the DNA fingerprinting, too few cultivars are to year.
planted in each area; this is certainly illustrated
by the dominance in acres planted to Stevens. It is important that germplasm not be lost
This situation is dangerously close to a forever. M any beds have small patches of
monoculture for cranberry farming. If a new mongrel vines. A lthough the great majority of
pathogen (like the false blossom phytoplasma) these mongrels have poor productivity and are
or a new insect pest is introduced to an area, it is often strictly vegetative, there may be
very likely that significant damage could occur individuals with especially good characteristics.
in those cultivars susceptible to the pathogen or The plant may be resistant to upright dieback
pest. disease, or suffer minimal damage from
fireworm, or have an especially attractive berry.
Growers may not be able to respond quickly This mongrel may be a genotype worth saving
enough and the consequences could be serious. for one of these character traits. One never
For growers to replace a bed of Early Black knows what will be needed down the road as
vines with Black Veil vines, it needs to be cranberry growing evolves in the 21st century.
proven beforehand that 1) Black Veil is resistant Growers are urged to contact someone from the
to these pathogens and those insects, and that 2) Cranberry Station to collect vines and fruit from
it is consistently productive. R esearch will be interesting patches of these oddball cultivars so
focused on c ultivar resistance in the future they are not lost forever when the bed is
because it cannot be assumed that certain renovated.
fungicides and insecticides will continue to be
available to growers. Biologically based

80
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82
83
84
 Integrated Pest Management
Hilary A. Sandler
INTRODUCTION

Integrated pest management (IPM) was formally

introduced to the cranberry industry in 1983
through support of a scouting program by the
University of Massachusetts-Amherst. In 2007,
estimates indicate private consultants, company
personnel, and individual growers combine to
scout more than 80% of Massachusetts’
cranberries (>10,000 acres). During the past 25
years, IPM has come to mean much more than
simply sweep netting for insect pests and
installing pheromone traps. Successful modern
cranberry growers must have a w orking
knowledge of insect biology, weed ecology,
plant physiology, and disease life cycles. They
must know how to apply products with novel Fig. 1. Using a sweep net to monitor for insects.
chemistry, have proficiency with several Courtesy J. Mason.
pesticide-delivery systems, integrate traditional
cultural practices into modern horticulture,
select new varieties, cost-effectively renovate Historically, many cranberry farmers who used
out-dated farms, and adjust to the pressures IPM could reduce the number of spray
stemming from the encroachment of applications made in a growing season. More
urbanization. recently, applications of broad-spectrum
organophosphates have declined and the use of
target-specific, reduced risk compounds has
IPM IN MASSACHUSETTS become more prevalent. To achieve efficacy
with these newer chemicals, multiple
In Massachusetts cranberry production, IPM applications are often needed. Thus, the
involves pest monitoring by using sweep nets, traditional benchmark of success in IPM -
pheromone traps, and visual inspection. reduction in the number of pesticide applications
Cultural, chemical, and biological control - is no longer appropriate. Success in cranberry
strategies are used to develop a b road-based IPM in the 21st century will likely be measured
approach to controlling the most economically by such parameters as seasonal and long-term
threatening pests. Cultural practices, such as reduction in pest pressure and damage,
flooding, the application of a thin layer of sand, promotion of sustainable vine health and crop
and the use of resistant varieties, can reduce the yield performance, and promotion of
severity of a pest problem. Pesticides remain a environmental stewardship.
vital part of cranberry IPM programs, tempered
by their compatibility with other control
measures and their consistency with IPM HISTORY OF CRANBERRY IPM IN
philosophy. Although economical and logistical MASSACHUSETTS
constraints often hamper wide-scale adoption,
biological controls can be successfully utilized Significant federal support for IPM extension,
to manage pests in specific situations (Mahr research and field programs began in 1972, with
1999). major contributions coming from the EPA,
USDA, and the National Science Foundation

85
(National Research Council 1989). Since 1973, (Chrysoteuchia topiaria), and black-headed
IPM administered through the Extension Service fireworm (Rhopobota naevana) moths to aid in
has focused primarily on pr omoting the the timing of insecticide sprays; inspection of
implementation and development of workable berries in July-August for cranberry fruitworm
programs among growers’ organizations, (CFW; Acrobasis vaccinii) eggs; scouting for
consultants, and private industry. The IPM dodder (Cuscuta gronovii) seedlings to time
program for the Massachusetts cranberry management strategies; use of soil and plant
industry was initiated in 1983 at the UMass tissue analyses and crop observations to develop
Cranberry Station, which is part of the College and implement nutrient management plans;
of Natural Resources and the Environment at the determination of crop phenology for fungicide
University of Massachusetts-Amherst. and insecticide applications; and mapping of
Subsequently, the Cranberry Station has been weeds. Maintaining proper sanitation, judicious
looked upon as a leader in the development and use of irrigation, planting resistant varieties, and
dissemination of IPM techniques and use of various cultural techniques are additional
information by the cranberry producing regions examples of the many components found in an
in the United States, Canada, and other integrated management program for cranberries
countries. (Lasota 1990).

In its first year, approximately 16 acres were A grower survey conducted in 1999 indicated
scouted under the UMass IPM program. The that 80% of Massachusetts cranberry growers
number of acres covered by the program peaked identified themselves as f requent IPM
in 1985 at just over 600 acres, hovered around practitioners and 16% as occasional practitioners
400 acres through the 1989 season, and returned (Blake et al. 2007). Practices frequently used by
to the initial year’s coverage through the early >75% growers included scouting with sweep
1990’s. Prior to the economic collapse of the net, inspecting fruit for cranberry fruitworm
cranberry industry in 1999, as many as six eggs, calculating % out-of-bloom activities
private scouting businesses (IPM consultants) (important for CFW management), scouting for
provided services for Massachusetts cranberry dodder seedlings, raking dodder, mowing weeds,
growers. One of the primary goals of any sanding, cleaning ditches, and scheduling
University-based IPM program is to encourage irrigation to minimize leaf wetness. Most
the adoption of IPM programs by the private growers practiced IPM because they agreed with
sector and to slowly withdrawal from providing IPM philosophy (80%) and believed it had
scouting services. Progressing along this environmental benefits (73%). More than half
continuum, the UMass Cranberry Station of all growers who returned surveys were
discontinued its fee-for-service program in 1995. satisfied with its effectiveness and believed that
The total number of cranberry acres managed IPM saved money. More than 90% agreed that
using IPM philosophy has increased in the last the use of IPM could reduce pesticide residue in
two decades from several hundred acres to more food and the environment and protect beneficial
than 10,000 acres. M ost growers, in insects.
Massachusetts and other growing regions in the
U.S., scout their farms themselves (Weber
1997). A small segment of growers pay private MANAGING CRANBERRY PESTS IN
IPM consultants to scout their farms; costs vary MASSACHUSETTS
but typically fall between of $75-100 per acre.
Persons employed by individual cranberry The principle challenge for managing pests in
companies scout the remainder of the acreage. cranberries is simply the vast number of
organisms that can cause damage to the vine or
A basic cranberry IPM program consists of: the fruit or both. Over 20 insects cause injury to
sweep net sampling for 6-10 weeks; use of the cranberry and three are direct fruit pests
pheromone traps for Sparganothis fruitworm (Averill and Sylvia 1998). Fruit rot is the most
(Sparganothis sulfureana), cranberry girdler serious yield-limiting disease problem for

86
Massachusetts and is associated with more than reduce yield, and susceptibility to control
10 causal agents (Oudemans et al. 1998; Caruso measures (Else et al. 1995). Growers can then
2008). The large number of pathogens makes make decisions based on the assigned priority
understanding the biology of this disease level. Weed mapping provides a historical
complex challenging. More than 80 species of catalogue of weed location, growth, and control
weeds have been described by several cranberry over the years. Mapping can help identify
researchers (Beckwith and Fiske 1925; populations of weeds that serve as points of
Demoranville 1984; Demoranville 1986; Sandler invasion into the farm (Sandler et al. 2006). For
2004). fruit rot management, growers make fungicide
applications based on the percentage of open
Management of these numerous pests combines bloom as w ell as the keeping quality forecast
knowledge of the biology of the pest complex (KQF). A strong relationship between various
with practical application of control strategies. weather factors and the quality of fruit was
In practice, IPM is the implementation of pest documented in the late 1940’s (Franklin 1948)
control strategies founded on e cological and the KQF procedure has been used to
principles and biological data that capitalize on recommend fungicide applications ever since
natural mortality factors (e.g., natural enemies, (see Weather chapter).
unfavorable soil conditions, etc.) while
minimizing the disruption of these factors. Pest Chemical control is a critical component of pest
management revolves around optimizing management for cranberries. According to a
control, rather than maximizing it. recent summary report, 32 different pesticides
Consequently, current control tactics are aimed were used in Massachusetts in 2003. These
at the suppression of a cranberry pest rather than included seven fungicides, nine herbicides, and
its eradication. 16 insecticides (J. DeVerna, pers. comm.).
Chlorothalonil (e.g., Bravo) was the most widely
Although many other factors come into used fungicide (in terms of producing acres that
consideration, monitoring continues to be the received at least one application), followed by
tool by which growers collect information to the ethylenebisdithiocarbamate (EBDC)
determine when control decisions should be fungicides and the copper fungicides. For
made. The use of sweep nets, pheromone traps postemergence herbicides, glyphosate (e.g.,
and visual inspections are the main methods by Roundup) was applied to 55% of the production
which growers monitor insect populations. area; clopyralid was used on only 8%. The top
Action thresholds (AT) are available for many two preemergence herbicides used were
cranberry insects. The action threshold is a pronamide (Kerb; 46%) and dichlobenil
practical estimate of the economic threshold, the (Casoron or Norosac; 23%). Diazinon was the
density at which control measures should be most widely applied insecticide (84%), followed
applied to prevent an increasing pest population by carbaryl (e.g., Sevin; 72%) and
from reaching the economic injury level (Stern thiamethoxam (Actara; 54%).
et al. 1959). AT are typically based upon the
average number of insects gathered at a Chemigation remains the delivery mechanism of
particular sampling time. Examples of AT choice for insecticides and fungicides in
currently established for insect pests in Massachusetts. However, cranberry growers are
cranberry production include: 4.5 cutworms, 4.5 not reliant solely upon c hemical pesticides.
cranberry weevils, and 18 spanworms per set of Other pest management options are biological
25 sweeps (Averill and Sylvia 1998). control (Mahr 1999), pheromones, cultural
management, and nutrient management. Many
AT do not exist for weed and disease pests. options require the application of a material,
However, cranberry growers use phenology and even if it is biological product, such as beneficial
other biological indicators to make pest nematodes, stomach poisons for caterpillars, or
management decisions. For example, weeds are fungi for dodder control. The value of these
prioritized based on their ability to spread, options will be impacted not only by the

87
products’ efficacy but by the precision of the According to the survey by Blake et al. (2007),
delivery system (e.g., chemigation, boom B.t. products were not frequently used by
applicator) and cost. Massachusetts growers at the close of the 20th
century. In fact, less than 10% of the
respondents said they frequently used B.t.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF products while over 50% said they never used
PEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES them. This response fits fairly well with that
reported for North American cranberry growers
Massachusetts cranberry industry and research by Weber (1996). Only one-third of the
scientists have good relationships with several respondents reported that they had tried B.t., and
chemical manufacturers as well as f ederal and almost half of those growers had fair or negative
state agencies that regulate and register new experiences.
pesticides. These relationships are critical for
the maintenance of currently registered Beneficial Nematodes. Biological control of
compounds and well as future registrations. The black vine weevil, strawberry root weevil, and
cranberry industry has been very successful over cranberry girdler is possible with use of
the past decade in securing Specific and Crisis beneficial nematodes. Nematodes are
Exemptions (called Section 18 pe rmits) from microscopic worms that parasitize and kill the
EPA. Section 18 pe rmits enable growers to larval (immature) stages of the above-mentioned
manage pests, such as cranberry weevil, dodder, cranberry pests. Beneficial nematodes target
and Phytophthora cinnamomi, with pesticides specific soil-inhabiting insects and should not be
that have not yet received (but are in the process confused with the plant-parasitic nematodes,
of obtaining) a full EPA registration. The which are considered plant pathogens.
outbreak of organophosphate-resistant weevils Beneficial nematodes do not harm the cranberry
in the early 2000’s would have caused severe plant, whereas the plant-parasitic nematodes do
economic loss for many growers if not for the feed on or infect roots and runners.
granting of a Crisis Exemption for the use of an
insecticide that was pending registration (Averill A biological insecticide (Biosafe-N, BioSys,
and Sylvia 2002). UMass Cranberry Station Inc.) that used the nematode, Steinernema
scientists have also obtained special local needs carpocapsae as the active ingredient, was
(SLN or 24c) labeling by conducting field trials registered for use in cranberry farms in the mid-
to demonstrate efficacy, and subsequently 1980s. Projects researching the efficacy of this
working with state officials and registrants to product began in 1985. The product is nontoxic
incorporate the needed label changes. to plants, animals, and most beneficial insects
and does not contaminate groundwater supplies.
The cranberry industry was the first food crop in
BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS North America to employ beneficial nematodes
as a b iological control agent on a commercial
Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) Products. Several basis. Use recommendations for managing soil
products containing the bacterium, Bacillus insects have been developed for cranberry and
thuringiensis (B.t.), have been registered to other small fruit crops (Polavarapu 1999; Booth
control lepidopteran pests of cranberries. These 2000).
products are effective for control of the small
larval (caterpillar) stages of cutworms, Growers in Massachusetts and in other cranberry
spanworms, and gypsy moths. These insect regions have been using nematodes for black
pests feed primarily on the leaves and buds of vine weevil and strawberry root weevil control
cranberry vines. B.t. products are very low in since 1988. Good control was observed in
mammalian toxicity, specific to caterpillars and Massachusetts (S. Roberts, pers. comm.) and
are not harmful to bees, wildlife, or beneficial Washington (Booth et al. 2002). The two
insects. Growers can apply these products by air primary targets of beneficial nematodes (black
or chemigation. vine and strawberry root weevils) are not

88
significant pests in Massachusetts. T he lack of Other Products. An agricultural decontaminant
pest pressure and sporadic availability of foam, alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride
commercial product in the Northeast has limited (ADBAC), was tested as a growth deterrent for
the incorporation of beneficial nematodes into the field and storage rot pathogen, Physalospora
standard IPM programs in Massachusetts. vaccinii (Tubajika 2006). At least 100 ppm
ADBAC was needed to affect mycelial growth
Pathogens. Alternaria destrucens has been and complete inhibition was achieved at 1,000
identified as a pathogen of dodder (Bewick ppm. The authors contend this product would fit
1987). The commercial availability of the well into an integrated program for fungal
mycoherbicide based on this organism has been control. Biological fungicides containing
hampered by many production problems over Pseudomonas syringae, when applied in
the past 20 y ears. However in 2006, a combination with carnauba wax, effectively
manufacturer in Pennsylvania (Sylvan reduced fruit decay in cranberry (Chen et al.
BioProducts) registered the product, Smolder, 1999), but more research is needed to determine
for dodder control on cranberries in the range of pathogens affected. Several
Massachusetts. Two formulations were nontoxic household cleaners (e.g., vinegar, soap)
registered: a preemergence granular and a have been evaluated for postemergence control
postemergence wettable powder. In conjunction of dodder (Morrison et al. 2005). Cryolite bait
with scientists from Wisconsin, USDA, and has been used by many growers in the Pacific
Sylvan, field trials were initiated in 2006 at the Northwest for control of black vine weevil and
UMass Cranberry Station and continued into strawberry root weevil (Weber 1997). Its use has
2007. Early results indicated that timing and been limited in Massachusetts (due to low pest
application procedures need to be more clearly pressure) and its production was discontinued in
defined to maximize the performance of 2004 (Averill and Sylvia 2008).
Smolder (Bewick and Cascino 2007). Results
from 2007 studies in WI and MA indicated that
Smolder did not perform reliably in the field. PHEROMONES, TRAPS, AND MATING
The future use of this product for control of DISRUPTION
dodder in cranberry is unknown as of this
writing. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides has Research on t he identification of sex
also been identified as a pathogen of dodder pheromones for several cranberry pests has led
(Mika and Caruso 1999), but no a ttempts have to the incorporation and adoption of pheromone
been made to commercialize this fungus. traps (Fig. 2) into standard IPM programs as
monitoring tools (Brodel 1985). The
Predators and Parasitoids. Published research effectiveness of pheromone traps for monitoring
on the potential use of parasites and parasitoids populations of cranberry girdler (Corliss 1990;
in cranberry production has focused on t hose Kamm et al. 1990), BHF (Shanks et al. 1990;
infecting black-headed fireworm (BHF) and Cockfield et al. 1994b), and Sparganothis
cranberry fruitworm (CFW). Indigenous (Cockfield et al. 1994a) has been evaluated by
Trichogramma sp. nr. sibericum (now T. many cranberry scientists across North America.
sibericum) and, to a l esser extent, T. minutum, Traps are regularly used by more than half of the
parasitize BHF eggs (Li et al. 1994). Other Massachusetts growers (Blake et al. 2007). Trap
species (a tachinid fly and several parasitic catches are monitored to determine the
wasps) have been reared from BHF larvae beginning of the moth flight or peak flight, after
(Fitzpatrick et al. 1994). It has been noted that which sprays can then be timed (Kamm and
spiders will prey on B HF moths in field cages McDonough 1982; Averill and Sylvia 2008).
(Fitzpatrick and Troubridge 1993) and on certain
larvae of known cranberry pests (Bardwell and
Averill 1996).

89
 for 3-4 weeks after harvest of the fruit) can
reduce CFW emergence from hibernacula and
suppress growth of dewberries (DeMoranville et
al. 2005). Flooding for pest management is not
always successful in terms of reducing pest
populations. In New Jersey, data collected from
short flooding experiments for management of
Sparganothis were not promising (Teixeira and
Averill 2006). The authors concluded that
flooding will not replace the control seen with
chemical control or mating disruption.
Fig. 2. E xample of a pheromone trap used to
monitor black-headed fireworm moths. P hoto Flooding, even if successful in reducing pest
courtesy A. Averill. populations, carries a certain degree of risk to
the vines. Until the early 2000’s, flooding was
primarily viewed through the lens of pest
Applied research on mating disruption is another management only. Recent research has shown
outcome stemming from the identification of sex that flooding at different times of year for
pheromones. A sprayable formulation of BHF various lengths of time can impact the total
pheromone (3M Canada Company) was tested nonstructural carbohydrate (TNSC)
and registered for use in the U.S. and Canada concentration of the vines (Botelho and Vanden
(Fitzpatrick, unpublished data). However, due Heuvel 2006). TNSC are the energy currency of
to the availability of chemicals that give good the plant. Carbohydrate resources are important
control of BHF and other cranberry pests, use of (even crucial) to proper fruit set (Birrenkott and
mating disruption for BHF has not been Stang 1990; Hagidimitriou and Roper 1994).
incorporated into Massachusetts IPM programs. Carbohydrate stress may be observed after
prolonged periods of net respiration during
flooding (Botelho and Vanden Heuvel 2005;
CULTURAL CONTROL OPTIONS Vanden Heuvel 2005). Botelho and Vanden
Heuvel (2006) found that TNSC were generally
Flooding. Cranberries evolved in a w etland unaffected by late water floods, winter floods,
setting and as such are able to withstand periodic and short-term spring floods. However, fall
flooding without sustaining injury. Growers use floods often resulted in decreased TNSC. Thus,
flooding for many management purposes the use of fall floods for pest management may
including harvesting, frost protection, and winter carry the risk of yield reduction.
protection (see Flooding and Water Use
chapters). Holding a late water flood (i.e., Flood duration is also of importance with
reflooding the bog from mid-April to mid-May) regards to water quality in the flood discharge,
can decrease the inoculum potential of the fruit particularly around harvest (see Flooding
rot fungi, cause a general reduction of annual chapter). Before discharging harvest water back
weeds, suppress the spread of Rubus sp. as well to a stream, river, or pond, the flood is held for
as suppress populations of certain insects and at least two days to allow organic matter or other
mites (Averill et al. 1994; Averill et al. 1997). particles, along with associated nutrients, to
settle out. However, holding the flood for an
Short spring floods can control BHF (Cockfield extended duration can lead to movement of
and Mahr 1992) and dodder (Sandler 2003a; phosphorus from the bog soil into the flood
Sandler and Mason 2004). Short (3 to 7 d ays) water (DeMoranville 2006; DeMoranville et al.
late summer floods can also be used for 2008). The use of flooding in cranberry
management of cranberry girdler (Beckwith production has numerous interactions and
1925; Fitzpatrick 2007), and longer floods (held impacts that should be considered whenever

90
utilizing this cultural option for pest potential to increase fruit quality and contribute
management. to pesticide reduction, such as pruning, irrigation
scheduling, drainage management, bed
Sanding. Sanding, i.e., the application of a thin sanitation, and integrated nutrient management.
(0.5 to 2 inches) layer of sand on the production
surface at 2 to 5 year intervals, is the most Other cultural practices. Sanitation (removal
commonly used cultural practice in of leaf trash after harvest) is very important for
Massachusetts (DeMoranville et al. 1996b). minimizing fruit rot inoculum (Caruso and
Sanding can suppress fruit rot inoculum by Ramsdell 1995). Proper use of water is
burying infected leaves (Tomlinson 1937). important to successful disease management and
Uniform applications of sand on a regular overall vine health. Improving drainage can help
interval may reduce infestations of cranberry mitigate Phytophthora root rot (Caruso and
girdler and green spanworm (Franklin 1913; Wilcox 1990). Minimizing the length of time
Tomlinson 1937). Research is on-going to that leaves remain wet will reduce the infection
determine the impact of sanding on C FW (A. potential of fruit rot fungi. Proper maintenance
Averill, pers. comm.). Uniform sand and calibration of the sprinkler system and other
applications can also inhibit emergence of equipment are important procedures that are
dodder seedlings (Sandler et al. 1997). practiced by cranberry growers. Adequate
pressure and clean nozzles are critical to ensure
Sanding may not always have positive pest that proper amounts of chemicals are delivered
management outcomes. Sand as the surface layer to the target area.
may shorten herbicide longevity (Sandler and
DeMoranville 1999). Weed seeds of Renovation of older plantings to new (hybrid)
problematic plants can actually be introduced by varieties, along with installation of improved
the application of sand to the vines, increasing irrigation systems, is being more readily
weed problems (Mason et al. 2006). Pest embraced by current cranberry growers than in
control (e.g., cranberry girdler, dodder) often the past. The age of the planting can influence
depends on t he deposition of uniform layers of the pest complex that must be managed
sand. Growers will strive to apply a certain (DeMoranville et al. 2001). Newly planted beds
target depth, but recent research reported that the typically need less fungicide and insect inputs;
majority of measurements of sand depths but should be intensively managed for weed
actually deposited to the bog floor were much pests. Choice of vine density, nitrogen rate and
lower than the target depth (Hunsberger et al. weed management strategy interact to provide
2006). In fact, deposition patterns were very thorough colonization of newly planted vines
irregular and would reduce the expectation of (Sandler 2004). The most cost-effective
pest suppression that requires a uniform layer of production scheme for establishing new beds
sand (i.e., dodder). that minimizes weed infestation is to plant vines
at a low density, use moderate amounts of
Pruning. Pruning has indirect effects on pest nitrogen, and apply an annual application of a
populations but provides overall benefits to vine preemergence herbicide (Sandler et al. 2004a).
vigor and is an important cultural practice. As vines age, additional pests may become
Periodic pruning of vines improves aeration in established. Scouting should be performed
the vine canopy and makes the environment routinely, and the process of integrating cultural,
unfavorable for fruit rot infection (Caruso and biological, and chemical controls becomes part
Ramsdell 1995). of the regular pest management program.

Pruning is becoming more important to Nutrient Management. Nutrient management is

Massachusetts growers as local sand (available important when considering pest management in
on-site) resources decrease and the cost of sand terms of the overall health of the plant.
increases. Studies are currently investigating the Sustainable nutrient practices have positive
incorporation of low-cost practices that have impacts on the environment as well as the plant.

91
Use of organic fertilizers, slow-release federal levels (DeMoranville 2006). The
fertilizers, and small split applications reduce development of BMP for nutrient management
leaching loss. Ammoniated forms of nitrogen was identified in the 1990s as a way to help
are readily and preferably taken up by cranberry address some of these concerns. Outcomes from
vines (Addoms and Mounce 1932; Greidanus et the research initiative included that once
al. 1972; Dirr 1974) and protect the established and consistently producing good
groundwater. Calcium-boron supplements fruit yields, cranberry vines need low rates of
improve pollination and increase yield potential phosphorus to complete their life cycle and
(DeMoranville and Deubert 1987). maintain a healthy vine canopy (Davenport et al.
1997; DeMoranville and Davenport 1997;
Inorganic fertilizers with various proportions of Davenport et al. 2008; DeMoranville et al. 2008;
the major elements of nitrogen, phosphorus and Roper 2008). Another study that focused on the
potassium (NPK) are the most commonly used discharge of nitrogen and phosphorus from
fertilizer products in cranberry since they cranberry bogs concluded that discharge was
provide quick vine response. However, growers primarily associated with flooding (Howes and
are incorporating slow-release products and Teal 1995). Data from DeMoranville (2006)
foliar fertilizers into their regular programs. Best showed that describing the flow and discharge of
management practices (BMP) for nutrient nutrients through the cranberry system can be
management recommend that growers use complex and thus, the need to field test potential
moderate application of nitrogen fertilizers nutrient management BMP recommendations is
(DeMoranville et al. 1996b). From a p est an area for future research.
management perspective, this practice helps in
two ways. Using appropriate amounts of
nitrogen limits overgrowth of vines that can CONCLUSIONS
encourage infection from fruit rot organisms
(Davenport 1996). Secondly, lush vine growth Integrated pest management implies more than
can provide a suitable habitat for tipworm and the application of chemicals at the appropriate
flea beetle infestations (Averill and Sylvia time against the correct target pest. Knowledge
1998). Growers can reduce pest problems of the pest's life cycle, symptoms, as well as the
through judicious use of fertilizer. conditions that predispose the cranberry to
infection or infestation contributes to effective
Research on the organic product, fish management of cranberry pest problems.
hydrolysate (or fish fertilizer), was initiated at Implementing cultural practices, such as
the UMass Cranberry Station in 1987 flooding and sanding, broaden the baseline
(DeMoranville 1992b). Results indicated that defense against crop loss due to pest pressures.
fish hydrolysate may be a suitable alternative to Many biological control opportunities exist for
inorganic soluble fertilizers. Growers first tried cranberry pest management but logistical
fish fertilizer, made using recycled products obstacles, such as problematic production and
from the state’s fishing industry, as a nutrient distribution of reliable commercial compounds,
source in 1989. Fish fertilizer is an efficient has prevented widespread incorporation of these
material; it remains in the root zone longer than strategies.
inorganic soluble fertilizers. Use of this slow-
release, organic material is particularly well Cranberry growers and researchers face many
suited to areas that have a h igh leaching challenges at the beginning of the 21st century.
potential. As environmental concerns continue to limit the
availability and application of conventional
Phosphorus (Roper et al. 2004a) and nitrogen (registered) pesticides, the incorporation of new
(Davenport and Vorsa 1999; Hart et al. 2000) chemistries and reduced risk compounds, along
are important elements of interest in with biological and cultural control measures,
Massachusetts due to increased concern for into routine pest management programs will
protection of water quality, both on s tate and become even more crucial. Sustained

92
population growth in the southeastern region of (This chapter was excerpted from: Sandler, H.A.
Massachusetts will put increased pressure on the 2008. Challenges in integrated pest management for
farming community. Massachusetts cranberry production: A historical
perspective to inform the future. pp. 21-50. In: Crop
Protection Research Advances, eds. E.N. Burton and
The future of IPM and the cranberry industry P.V. Williams. Nova Publications, New York.
will be shaped by many factors including the
physical transition of farms and the intellectual
transfer of pest management knowledge and
experience from the present generation to the
next.

93
 Weed Management
Hilary A. Sandler
Weeds can cause serious yield loss in cranberry of insect and disease management, the early
production. Since cranberry vines are perennial years of Weed Science emphasized complete
plants, most of the weed species found in eradication of all plants other than the crop.
commercial cranberry production are also However, scientists and farmers realized that in
perennial species. Management on cranberry most cases, eradication was not a r easonable
farms (or other perennial crop systems) is quite goal. The presence of most weed populations is
different than that used for annual crops. often tolerated in modern cranberry production.
Cranberry farmers cannot use rotation or in-row
hoeing or other cultivation options that are quite
useful in annual crops. P erennial plants Definitions of key plant terms.
typically have underground storage organs that
provide reserve energy that allow them to Monocots. The abbreviation of the term used
rebound from injury caused by herbicides or to describe the group that contains the grasses,
other control strategies. Once established on the sedges, and rushes. The leaves of these plants
farm, populations will tend to expand and are strap-like and have parallel veins.
crowd-out cranberry vines. O n the other hand,
since the weed populations tend to occur in the Dicots. The abbreviation used to describe the
same place year after year, the use of techniques group known as broadleaved plants. Dicots
such as w eed mapping become quite useful. have many different leaf shapes and the veins
Once the locations are known, this information are netted.
may be integrated into the decision-making
process. Growers can then track the success of Annual Plants. Plants that emerge, grow,
their weed management efforts over time. produce flowers and seeds and then die within
the course of a year or single season.
Identification. C ertainly, one of the most
important steps in successful weed management Perennial Plants. Plants that live for many
is correct identification of the weed in question. years and produce flowers and seeds year after
Many resources are available, both in print and year. P erennials have specialized structures
on-line, to assist growers in identification. such as rhizomes, tubers, or bulbs, which
University of Wisconsin and University of enable them to survive year after year.
Maine offer images of cranberry weeds at
www.hort.wisc.edu/cran/mgt_articles/articles_pe
st_mgt/weeds/cranweeds.html and www.umaine. The concept of Integrated Weed Management
edu/umext/cranberries/weedsPhotoLibrary.htm. (IWM) has been developed over the last 30
UMass publications are available at the years and now is the accepted philosophy. IWM
Cranberry Station (Sandler and Else 1995; Sears is similar in philosophy to Integrated Pest
et al. 1996) and Extension specialists can help Management (IPM) and Integrated Crop
identify weeds one-on-one. O nce the weed is Management (ICM). T hese philosophies use
correctly identified, then management options combinations of economic and ecological
can be explored. concepts to help farmers decide if it is ‘worth it’
to control a pest species (Metcalf and Luckman
1975). Worth may be assessed economically,
INTEGRATED WEED MANAGEMENT environmentally, ecologically, socially,
politically, or in some combination of factors
Weed Science is the scientific discipline that (Prokopy 1990; Cardina et al. 1999;
deals with managing weeds. As with the areas

94
Hollingsworth and Coli 2001; Buhler 2002). A term management of heavy infestations, many
balance must be struck between the cost of weed growers invest hours and hours of hand-weeding
damage and the cost of weed control. I n new plantings to manage weed populations
practical terms, IWM involves prevention, early.
prioritization, and mapping (Zimdahl 1999).
Prioritization. All weeds are not created equal.
Some are quite aggressive, hard to control and
How weeds differ from insects and how significantly reduce yield. Some are very poor
this affects IPM. competitors and are really not much more than a
nuisance. Most species fall somewhere in
1. From year to year, insects may or may not between (Else et al. 1995). The current
be present in numbers to cause economic management guide published by the Cranberry
damage, but most cranberry weeds are Station categorizes many problematic species
perennials and are present all the time. into 4 priority groups (Sandler 2008). T his
priority system helps growers organize their
Effect: ‘Scouting’ in the traditional sense weed management efforts. In most cases, control
(determination of numbers and action efforts must be diligently conducted over many
thresholds) is less useful for weeds. years before the weed populations can be
reduced. Some weeds are so tenacious that even
2. Impact on yields by weeds largely multi-year efforts may not be enough.
depends on weather factors that affect the
interaction of cranberry vines and weeds
(e.g., drought stress, nutrient competition).
Insect damage is usually less dependent on
weather.

Effect: Precise action thresholds are difficult

to establish for many weed pests. However,
some weeds (e.g., dodder) are considered to
have zero tolerance.

3. Weeds and cranberry vines are both plants

and thus, are more similar to each other than
insects and cranberry vines.

Effect: It is more difficult to develop control

methods that will harm weeds, but not harm
cranberry vines. Fig. 1. Example of a weed map for a commercial
cranberry farm. S triping and stippling indicate
different priority ranks and letters denote weed
Prevention. Prevention is a cr itical aspect for species (Else et al., 1995). Sprinkler heads are
successful weed control in cranberries. Weeds marked with an “x”.
can colonize open ground in newly planted
cranberry farms. Colonization of either vines or
weeds is impacted by fertilizer, weed Weed Mapping. Weed mapping (Fig. 1)
management choices and planting density involves surveying the populations of weeds in a
(Sandler 2004; Sandler et al. 2004a). It is much cranberry bog to determine the type, size of the
easier to keep weeds out from the very start infestation, and location of all the weeds. Weed
rather than trying to manage them once they mapping requires that the farmer is able to
have become established. To minimize long- accurately identify the weeds present in the bog.

95
As discussed above, it may be very difficult to
have an action threshold for a p articular weed; Prioritization groupings of common
many aspects are taken into account when cranberry weeds (Else et al., 1996).
deciding weed management options. Knowing
the locations of weed infestations allows the Priority 1 - Very Damaging Weeds
farmer to apply herbicides or other control Dewberries, Rubus hispidus, R. flagellaris
measures to one part of the bog without treating Dodder, Cuscuta gronovii
another part that might not be at risk. Once an Poison ivy, Rhus radicans
accurate weed map has been made, a farmer also Sawbrier, Smilax glauca
can prioritize which weeds need to be controlled Wild bean, Apios americana
based on which ones have the highest risk of
causing yield loss. Weeds that pose little or no Priority 2 - Serious Weeds
risk to cranberry yield can be left untreated (Else Asters, Aster ericoides and A. novi-belgii
et al. 1995). Common sawbrier, Smilax rotundifolia
Narrow-leaved goldenrod, Solidago
tenuifolia
MAJOR WEED PESTS Upright bramble, Rubus allegheniensis
Yellow loosestrife, Lysimachia terrestris
Dodder (Cuscuta gronovii). Dodder is an
annual plant known by several common names, Priority 3 - Weeds of less importance
such as strangle weed, angel’s hair, and golden Black chokeberry, Pyrus melanocarpa
thread (Yuncker 1965). It is an obligate parasite Nutsedge, Cyperus dentatus
and must infect a host to survive and complete Leatherleaf, Chamaedaphne calyculata
its life cycle. Seedlings consist only of stem perennial sedges and grasses
tissue and have no leaves or roots. S tems are Red maple, Acer rubrum
slender strands, usually yellow to orange in Rushes, Juncus sp.
color. A lthough dodder relies on its host for Sheep laurel, Kalmia angustifolia
nutrients and water, some species do contain White clover, Trifolium repens
small amounts of chlorophyll. A lthough
considered an annual plant, it can survive as Priority 4 - Weeds of little concern
haustoria (specialized organs that can extract annual broadleaf weeds (e.g., ragweed,
water and nutrients from the host plant) if the smartweed)
host plant lives through the winter. annual sedges and grasses
Arrow-leaved tearthumb, Polygonum
Dodder reproduces by seed, but these are not sagittatum
easily dispersed by animals or wind. The fruit Blue-eyed grass, Sisyrinchium sp.
capsule contains large air spaces making it Cinquefoil, Potentilla canadensis
buoyant, so the capsules are easily dispersed in Fireweed, Erechtites hieracifolia
flood waters. D odder seed can also be moved ferns
on equipment, so growers should carefully clean Hardhack, Spiraea tomentosa
harvesters and other machinery when moving Horsetail, Equisetum arvense
between beds. Joe Pye Weed, Eupatorium dubium
Meadow beauty, Rhexia virginica
Dodder can cause 80-100% yield loss in heavy Meadowsweet, Spiraea latifolia
patches of infestation and is a weed of great mosses
concern in current cranberry production. Pitchfork, Bidens frondosa
Dodder management demands use of an Sheep sorrel, Rumex acetosella
integrated approach as no one control strategy is Sweet pepper bush, Clethra alnifolia
fully effective in reducing the weed pressure White violet, Viola lanceolata
(Sandler and Ghantous 2006). The best
management strategy for dodder is prevention of

96
infestation from the very beginning. All efforts (Roundup wipes) are minimally effective against
should be made to reduce seed production and dewberries; wiping is also very labor intensive.
dispersal on an annual. If a f arm is already A new herbicide, Callisto, may slow the spread
infested, practice good sanitation (as mentioned of dewberry infestation (Sandler, unpublished);
above) in addition to removing seed pods in check the Cranberry Chart Book.
postharvest (trash) floods. C ontrol of early
season hosts, such as young succulent weeds, Sawbriers (Smilax glauca and S. rotundifolia).
can hamper dodder infestations; control of Several common names are associated with
alternate hosts is strongly encouraged. these troublesome weeds including silverleaf
Preemergence and postemergence herbicides sawbrier (but not to be confused with the
may offer some control of infestations; check the silverleaf in Washington state, which is a
Cranberry Chart Book for current and specific Potentilla species), glaucous sawbrier (or
recommendations. sometimes, greenbrier), common greenbrier and
bullbrier. Silverleaf (S. glauca) or glaucous
Dewberries and Brambles (Rubus sp.). Two sawbrier is considered a Priority 1 weed whereas
different species of Rubus commonly occur on common greenbrier (S. rotundifolia) is rated as a
commercial cranberry beds: bristly dewberry (R. Priority 2. C ommon greenbrier has an upright
hispidus) and prickly dewberry (R. flagellaris). habit and can be controlled somewhat easily
These species and other Rubus that occur in with herbicide wipes. S ilverleaf, on t he other
nature can hybridize with each other, so the hand, is very difficult to control due to its
characteristics that distinguish bristly from extensive underground storage organs and by the
prickly may become less evident in the field fact that the plant tends to grow close to the
(Sandler 2001). Though cranberry growers may canopy of the cranberry vines (making herbicide
call a wide variety of weeds, ‘brambles’, the wiping difficult). Silverleaf spreads rapidly and
conventional approach across many causes significant yield reductions. P ulling or
commodities is to use the term, brambles, to digging the plant out of the farm is not practical
describe Rubus species only. and damages the vines. L ike dewberries,
infestations of sawbrier tend to occurs on hi gh
Dewberries are perennial plants that produce dry edges. Flooding is not effective against
upright and arching trailing stems that arise from Smilax species. I nfestations of sawbrier and
root buds (Uva et al. 1997). Dewberries spread dewberries are often the cause that prompts
rapidly on cranberry farms by rooting at the tips renovation of cranberry farms.
of their stems. D ewberries will form a d ense
thicket and kill cranberry vines if left Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). Poison
unmanaged. Patches tend to occur on high, dry ivy has ascended the priority scheme over the
edges of the farm. The reproductive potential of past 10 years and is now ranked as a P riority 1
dewberries is quite great. O ne crown can weed. It is imperative to treat young infestations
produce 3-7 stems or canes in one year. Then early! T he vertical growth of poison ivy is
each of these canes can root to form another stunted on cranberry farms (due to the low pH)
crown, which can then produce more stems. and the weed tends to grow only as tall as the
Stems are known to grow over 15 feet long. vine canopy. Although stunted vertically,
poison ivy patches continue to expand if left
It is best to eliminate individuals and small untreated. Herbicide wipes do w ork, but vine
patches as they invade the farm. Late water injury may (and usually does) occur since the
floods (DeMoranville et al. 1998) and fall floods weed is so close to the cranberry vines.
(DeMoranville et al. 2005) may reduce Preemergence herbicides do not control poison
populations. Growers should consider the risks ivy. In addition, flooding has no i mpact on
involved with fall floods (e.g., impact on poison ivy.
carbohydrates of the vines and P mobilization)
when choosing this option (see Flood Control of poison ivy has the additional
Management section). C hemical controls complication that many people are quite allergic

97
to the oils of the plant and are hesitant to apply
postemergence controls. Protective lotions
(applied either pre- and postexposure, or both)
are available that minimize the irritation.

MANAGEMENT OPTIONS

Scouting, identifying, and mapping weeds on

active cranberry farms are the first important
steps towards selecting an appropriate
management option. Present weed management
revolves around the use of preemergence and
postemergence herbicides, flooding or other
cultural practices, and hand-weeding.
Herbicides are manufactured in many
formulations. F ormulations used in cranberry
production include granular, dry flowable, and
liquid products. Granular herbicides are
typically applied with a ground rig applicator,
such as a Gephardt or other device. S ome
herbicides may be injected and applied through
the irrigation system (chemigation). Others may
be applied as sp ot-treatment with hand-held
wipers or backpack sprayers.

Several preemergence products are currently

registered: dichlobenil (Casoron), napropamide
(Devrinol), norflurazon (Evital), and simazine
(Princep or Caliber). Several products are
available for use after weeds have emerged
(postemergence) including glyphosate (e.g.,
RoundUp), sethoxydim (Poast), clethodim Fig. 2. E xamples of different herbicide
(Select), clopyralid (Stinger), and mesotrione applicators (from top): wick wiper (courtesy L.
(Callisto). Huffman); alternate wick wiper (courtesy
tractorbynet.com/forums/members/billbobtlh.ht
Casoron is a granular material that controls ml); backpack sprayers (courtesy
grasses, sedges, broadleaved weeds, and dodder www.sunsprayers.com).
to some extent. It should be used on vines with
well-established root systems and should not be
used on vines that will be or have been recently Roundup is a product that is familiar to many
mowed. Evital is also a granular formulation. It people. I n cranberry production, it is usually
seems to be most effective when applied in the applied as a w ipe and under certain
fall. Its target species includes sedges, grasses, circumstances, can be applied as a sp ray
and rushes. S ome varieties, such as McFarlins application. Poast and Select are spot-treatment
and Stevens, can be very sensitive to Evital. products, applied as a spray, which will only
control grasses. O ther spot-treatment products
Devrinol is a dry flowable formulation that can include Stinger, which controls members of the
be chemigated. Devrinol works best as a pea and aster family, and Callisto, which
preventative measure on weed-free surfaces and controls grasses, sedges, and some broadleaved
is an excellent choice for newly planted farms.

98
plants. C ranberry vines are very sensitive to control. Growers are willing to commit the time
Stinger and great care must be used to minimize to remove infected weed hosts and even infected
injury to the vines while still obtaining good uprights as needed.
weed control. Cranberry vines are very tolerant
to applications of Callisto. No biological products are currently viable for
control of cranberry weeds. A biological control
product, Smolder, is registered for use in
cranberry in Massachusetts. The active
ingredient is a fungus (Alternaria destrucens)
that infects dodder. Unfortunately, recent
research in Massachusetts and Wisconsin
indicated poor field performance (Caruso,
Sandler, and Colquhoun, unpublished). F uture
research efforts may be directed towards another
fungus (Colletotrichum sp.) that has shown
promise in recent field studies.

CHALLENGES IN CRANBERRY WEED

MANAGEMENT
Fig. 3. G ephardt drop spreader delivering Weeds will always be challenging to control in
granular herbicide to the cranberry farm surface. cranberry production since many of the methods
Note white droplet of foam at left, which helps that growers use to foster cranberry vine growth
to guide the driver. Photo courtesy R. Gilmore. also favor weed growth. In addition, the
expectation is that the number of new
compounds that will be fully developed into
Flooding can be used to manage some weed commercial herbicides will be limited. T his is
populations (see dewberries, mentioned earlier). due mostly to the high cost associated with
Short (24-48 hr) spring time floods can suppress product development and the uncertainty of
dodder populations (Sandler 2003b; Sandler return revenues from sales. To compound this
2003a). Flooding is ineffective against most impact, the likelihood that a product will be
other weed species. made available for a minor crop such as
cranberries, which are grown in a location that
Uniform applications of sand can suppress has increasing housing pressure and
dodder germination (Sandler et al. 1997; environmental concerns, is not as great as for an
Hunsberger et al. 2006). Sanding is not known agronomic crop that is grown on millions of
to impact any other weed pest that occurs acres far from dense population clusters.
regularly on cranberry farms. To minimize
additional introduction of weeds, clean sources For these reasons (and certainly others not
of sand should always be used (for horticultural discussed), efforts must be made to maximize
or pest management) as sand piles are reservoirs and maintain the utility of all available weed
of weed seeds (Mason et al. 2006). control methods. E ducation and research are
needed to ensure that growers properly use the
Hand-weeding is still used extensively in available methods, integrating techniques
cranberry farming. In addition to the judicious whenever possible, to manage the weed
use of preemergence and postemergence populations that significantly impact vine health
herbicides, hand-weeding is particularly and yield production.
important in the first two years of a new
planting. Hand-weeding is also used for dodder

99
 Disease Management
Frank L. Caruso
There are several major and minor diseases that
affect the cranberry plant. Major diseases
include fruit rot, Phytophthora root rot, upright
and runner dieback, and fairy ring disease.
Minor diseases include false blossom,
Protoventuria and Pyrenobotrys leaf spots, red
leaf spot, rose bloom and ringspot. S ome
diseases are prevalent in other regions where
cranberries are grown, but are rarely or not
found in Massachusetts. These include
cottonball (found in Wisconsin and, to a lesser
extent, in the Pacific Northwest) and
Lophodermium twig blight (found in
Washington and Oregon). Fig. 1. The disease triangle, a central concept in
plant pathology. Courtesy www.apsnet.org.
Detailed descriptions and excellent photographs
of cranberry disease symptoms may be found in
publications published by the American This concept is the foundation of plant
Phytopathological Society (Caruso and pathology. M any virulent pathogens come into
Ramsdell 1995). A revision to the 1995 contact with a susceptible host plant, but no
publication is expected to be available by late disease results due to an unfavorable
2009, edited by F. Caruso, A. Schilder, J. environment. The most important components
Polashock, and A. Averill. These may be of the environment are related to weather.
purchased directly from APS Press
(http://www.shopapspress.org). In addition, Temperature. As pathogens (primarily fungal
current recommendations for fruit rot and and bacterial) go through their life cycle,
disease control in Massachusetts are published temperature affects which life phases will occur
each year in the UMass Cranberry Chart Book. at any particular time. Pathogens overwinter on
Copies are available directly from the Cranberry plant tissue or in the duff layer on the soil or in
Station or on the Cranberry Station web site the soil in an inactive state. T hey will be
(look under “Grower Services”). stimulated to come out of dormancy as the daily
temperature increases in the late winter and early
spring. The development of many pathogens is
DISEASE DEVELOPMENT closely linked to the development of its host
plant species.
Three things are required for a successful
infection by a plant pathogen. T he results are As the pathogen becomes active and resumes its
visible symptoms such as tip dieback or a rotted growth, the rate of growth will be determined by
berry. The components of the disease triangle the daily temperatures. Fluctuations in the
are: temperature will result in bursts of activity by
the pathogen, or it may not develop at all for
• a susceptible host plant, several days. O f course, the same will be true
• a virulent pathogen, and for its host. C ertain pathogens will develop at
• a favorable environment. cooler temperatures, while other pathogens will
only develop at warmer temperatures. Different
strains of an individual pathogen may respond

100
differently to a given temperature. For a fungus, worse the damage will be due to Phytophthora
the maturation and expulsion of spores from a root rot.
fruiting body may be very closely linked to
temperature. Snow can form an important insulating layer on
the vines in cranberry beds that do not receive an
Once spores land on the host, it is critical that adequate winter flood. The snow cover will
the temperature be within a certain range when prevent windburn or winter injury, and
the spore is infective. I f it is too cool or too consequently, the vines will not be predisposed
warm, infection may not occur. Conversely, to other stresses.
temperature is also critical for the host plant in
expressing its defenses against a pathogen. If a Humidity. Fungal pathogens require a film of
host plant is subjected to temperatures outside moisture on plant surfaces for the spores to
the optimal range for its successful resistance to germinate and penetrate into their host plant.
a pathogen, normally resistant plants can also be High humidity can allow moisture (due to rain
infected by certain pathogens. F or pathogens or sprinkler application) to remain on t he plant
that are able to reinfect their host plants several surface for a prolonged period, thus allowing the
times during the course of the growing season, fungi to infect the plant. I n southeastern
the temperature must be favorable at each point. Massachusetts, it is common to have extended
If a pathogen encounters favorable temperatures periods of several days (sometimes more than a
at every turn, the result may be a serious disease week) of relative humidity higher than 70% (and
outbreak or an epidemic. At the end of the dew points over 60°F). T he humidity from 8
growing season, cooler temperatures will trigger PM until 8 AM may be close to 100%, as fog
the pathogen to develop the stages of its life often develops due to the presence of the ocean
cycle that begin the overwintering or dormancy and its cooler water temperatures. T hese
process. conditions may also result in guttation (droplets
of water exiting from leaf tips or margins)
Precipitation. Adequate rainfall during the occurring in the plant.
growing season will allow the cranberry plant to
grow and develop normally, and its plant Usually water is lost from the plant as water
defenses will be at an optimal level. Inadequate vapor through transpiration. Under conditions
rainfall or circumstances leading to a drought of high humidity, water may be exuded from the
condition will put a significant amount of stress plant on the tips and margins of the leaves as
on the plant. In most cases, a stressed plant will droplets. These droplets can serve as points of
be more susceptible to injury caused by infection for several pathogens, primarily fungi
pathogens, insects, or other factors. and bacteria. Leaf spots that occur on cranberry
leaves are often caused by fungi that are
Upright dieback and fairy ring disease often normally fruit rot pathogens, but under the
occur at a higher incidence during years when a conditions described above, can also infect the
period of drought conditions has occurred. succulent leaves. This normally occurs in newly
However, the symptoms of these diseases may planted cranberry beds where excessive
not be evident until the following growing fertilization leads to rapid growth of the runners.
season. C onversely, excessive rainfall will This whole scenario is why growers should not
result in areas of the cranberry bog being irrigate late in the day during the summer
puddled or flooded for a certain duration. The months, but should irrigate during the early
cranberry vines in these areas will be weakened morning hours. This practice minimizes the
by the accumulated water, grow at a sl ow rate, length of time the moisture film is present on the
and be more susceptible to other stresses. If the surface of the cranberry vines, and allows the
fungus Phytophthora is introduced to the bog or sun to dry out the vines in the morning. This is
already present in the soil or water used in that also why vine overgrowth is not recommended.
bog, root rot will likely occur where the drainage The foliage and fruit within the vine canopy will
is poor. The longer the areas remain wet, the

101
never dry out, and the conditions for infection Table 1. L ist of names and pathogens
will persist for an extended time period. associated with common cranberry diseases.

Sunshine. As mentioned above, the sun is Fruit rot, various pathogens include:
important in drying out the cranberry vines Allantophomopsis lycopodina and
during those periods of high humidity and when A. cystisporea (black rot)
growers must use their sprinklers for irrigation Botryosphaeria vaccinii (Botryosphaeria
or frost protection. Sunshine is also important in fruit rot)
that it a llows the plant to be functioning at its Coleophoma empetri (ripe rot)
most efficient level. When the plant is Glomerella cingulata (bitter rot)
photosynthesizing, respiring, and metabolizing Fusicoccum putrefaciens (end rot)
efficiently, it will be most resistant to infection Penicillium sp. (Penicillium rot)
by plant pathogens. Phomopsis vaccinii (viscid rot)
Phyllosticta vaccinii (early rot or bull’s
eye rot)
FRUIT ROT Physalospora vaccinii (blotch rot)

This is the most prevalent disease problem that Other diseases:

cranberry growers face from season to season Fairy ring, exact causal agent known,
(Oudemans et al. 1998). Cranberry fruit can be but uncharacterized
infected by a large number of different fungal False blossom, phytoplasma
pathogens. A list of important pathogenic fungi Leaf spots, Pyrenobotrys compacta and
are listed in Table 1. Not all of these fungi will Protoventuria myrtilli
be present in a given bog during a particular Phytophthora root rot, Phytophthora
growing season. The individual fungi and their cinnamomi
population levels will vary from year to year Red leaf spot, Exobasidium rostrupii
(Polashock et al. 2008). Ringspot virus
Rose bloom, Exobasidium oxycocci
The degree of fruit rot that occurs in different Upright and runner dieback, Phomopsis
beds during different growing seasons is vaccinii, Fusicoccum putrefaciens, and
dependent on m any factors. Weather is Synchronoblastia crypta
probably the most important variable that affects
the amount of rot that occurs. T emperature,
humidity, rainfall, as well as special events such Most berry infection occurs during the bloom
as hailstorms, are important on a regional basis. period. S pores of the fungi are dispersed from
Local microclimatic variations can also lead to overwintering sources by wind or wind-driven
particular sections of a bog that are more prone rain. These spores land on the blossom or small
to the development of rot. T he density of vine developing fruit and, if there is a suitable layer
growth and drainage are important because they of moisture present for 6-8 hours, the fungi will
have a direct bearing on the length of time vines be allowed to penetrate into the plant tissue. If
remain wet from rain, fog, dew or irrigation. conditions are favorable and the cultivar is
Excessive vine growth and poor drainage susceptible, development of the fungus may be
prevent rapid drying and favor the infection by rapid and berries showing symptoms typical of
rot fungi. Practices that promote rank one of the rots may be apparent within a week.
(excessive) vine growth, such as ex cessive If conditions are unfavorable and if the cultivar
fertilizer, frequent late water, too frequent is less susceptible, development of the infection
sanding or too heavy sand on m uck bottom, will be slow. Many of the fruit rot fungal
holding water high in ditches, and too frequent pathogens infect the berry but remain latent in
irrigation should be avoided to lessen conditions the plant until the berry reaches a certain
favorable for fruit rot development. maturation or physiological stage, at which point
they will further infect the tissue, resulting in

102
visible symptoms. S ymptoms may not be Crowley, Ben Lear, McFarlin, Early Black,
visible until later in the growing season, or they Bergman, Franklin, Howes, and Stevens.
may not be visible until after the berries have
been harvested and held in storage. Newly planted beds (even for the “resistant”
varieties) are especially susceptible to infection
Some fungi (Phyllosticta, Physalospora) are by the fruit rot fungi, particularly because
solely responsible for rot occurring in the field, fungicides are not extensively used in most
whereas other fungi (Allantophomopsis) are instances. Leaves will be infected resulting in
responsible for rot occurring in storage. spotting and subsequent leaf drop. These fallen
Infection by this latter fungus (and some others leaves are the first step in the buildup of fungal
to a limited extent) largely occurs during the inoculum when fruit are eventually produced in
water harvest operation when the berries are subsequent growing seasons. In these early
injured by the water reels or by their removal years in the establishment of a bed, all cultivars
from the bog. The stem end of the berry is show susceptibility to the fungi.
accessible to spores floating in the flood water,
and skin punctures are also easily invaded by the Newly planted beds are very susceptible to fruit
spores. Infections such as these are the primary rot. Temperatures during the summer are
reason why water-harvested fruit must go into usually higher at vine level due to the exposed
processing; these berries can not be put in long- sand, and fertilizer rates are very high, making
range storage to be used for fresh fruit. for increased susceptibility of the plant tissue to
fungal infection. E ven when fungicides are
Certain fungi are more responsible for rot applied to these beds, many of the berries may
occurring in storage. These primarily include rot. More fungicide applications may be
Coleophoma, Fusicoccum and Phomopsis in necessary at shorter intervals to keep rot under
Massachusetts. Each of these fungi infect the control in these beds. Y ounger beds are also
fruit during bloom and early fruit development more prone to blossom blast infection of the
and remain as latent infections until the fruit flowers caused by Phyllosticta, Phomopsis, and
advances to a specific physiological stage, at Glomerella.
which point the fungal growth resumes and the
resultant symptoms can be observed. Berries may rot in the bog even when fungi are
not responsible. Physiological rot is most likely
Fungicides are an important strategy for the due to nutritional deficiencies or excesses in the
control of fruit rot (Caruso 2008). Applications plant, which is reflected in a berry that is not
typically begin during early bloom. O nce the properly developed. B erries (especially in
fruit has set and begun to increase in size (mid- newly planted beds) are also subject to scald
late July), further fungicides are no l onger during the hottest summer days. The side of the
necessary. The choice of fungicides, the rate of berry in direct contact with the sun’s rays may
the fungicide, and the time interval between suffer damage while those berries buried under
applications are dependent on the individual bed the foliage will be protected from this type of
and its past incidence of fruit rot. injury. D espite the fact that the damage to the
berry is not induced by the fungal pathogens, the
Fruit rot can be reduced by certain cultural fungi can very easily infect these damaged
practices: removal of the trash piles from the fruits, leading to further deterioration of the
dikes, sanding, vine pruning, proper fertilizer berry.
schedules, and late water. Wh en these are
employed, fewer applications may be necessary
or lower fungicide rates may be used. There is a PHYTOPHTHORA ROOT ROT
great variation in the susceptibility of cranberry
cultivars to fruit rot. O f the most commonly This disease is caused by a soilborne fungus that
encountered cultivars in Massachusetts, the most thrives in poorly drained areas in beds (Caruso
susceptible to the most resistant are listed: and Wilcox 1990; Polashock et al. 2005). The

103
pathogen, Phytophthora cinnamomi, was uniform addition of sand to get the areas up to
probably not native to Massachusetts but was grade with the remainder of the bed. Stressed
brought in on plant material imported from one plants on the margin of dieback areas should be
of the southern states, possibly on given an extra dose of fertilizer to stimulate root
rhododendrons or azaleas. I t is a subtropical growth. After the drainage has been improved,
fungus that does not normally survive winter fungicides should be applied several times per
conditions. It is able to survive because beds are season until the vines have completely filled in
normally flooded during the winter, and this the bare spots. O nce this has been achieved,
protects the fungus from severe cold only a single spring application should be
temperatures. necessary.

The fungus causes plant dieback in areas of the Precautions should be taken to avoid spread of
bog where water accumulates after prolonged the pathogen from infested beds to uninfested
rainfall, irrigation, frost protection, or flooding. beds. Machinery, equipment, footwear, etc.,
Root systems of infected plants are poorly should be sterilized using steam, bleach, or
developed, having few feeder roots and showing alcohol. I f possible, the sequence of flooding
necrosis. Plants are stunted, leaves are fewer in the beds during water harvest should be adjusted
number, and off color. They may turn red to flood heavily infected beds last. When vines
prematurely in the late summer or they may be are purchased from other growers, the grower
delayed in turning green in the spring. F ew should be certain that they have not come from
berries are produced on infected plants, and infected beds. Though very few roots are
these will be small in most instances. I f the present in such vine deliveries, it only takes a
outer layer of the underground runner is scraped few infected roots to initiate infection in a new
off, the internal tissue will be discolored olive location.
green to dark brown.
UPRIGHT AND RUNNER DIEBACK
Phytophthora can produce numerous different
types of spores during its life cycle. It probably
Cranberry plants affected by this disease
overwinters as hyphae in infected root systems.
typically have individual uprights that die back
It produces sporangia (that contain
from the growing point toward the runner.
sporangiospores) in early spring during the last
Every upright may be infected on some runners,
part of the winter flood and in the fall when the
while other runners may only have one or a few
bog is flooded for water harvest or for a t rash
infected uprights. I n severe cases, the entire
flow. These spores disseminate readily to
runner will be stressed or dying. S cattered
healthy vines in the same bed, and when the
uprights may be infected in the bed or whole
water is withdrawn, to other beds that may
patches of dieback may show up, particularly in
utilize the same source of water. W hen these
younger beds. There are three phases during the
spores come in contact with susceptible plant
season when symptoms appear: one shortly after
roots, they infect the plant and invade the root
the winter flood has been withdrawn; another in
system thoroughly. To date, no cultivar appears
June and early July; and another phase in late
to be resistant to the fungus, although certain
August and September.
cultivars appear to be less susceptible to attack
by the pathogen. Damage caused by this disease appears to be
worse during growing seasons that have
Control of the disease can be achieved only prolonged periods of drought or heat stress.
through several integrated strategies. I t is This weakens the vines making them more
essential that drainage be improved in low areas susceptible to infection by fungal pathogens.
of the bed. Tile, stones or other materials can be The only cultivar that has shown potential
utilized, and new ditches can be dug. Existing resistance to this disease is Franklin, but to date,
ditches should be maintained to the proper depth this has not been proven by artificial inoculation
as well. A reas of dieback should receive a with the pathogens.

104
Most damage is probably caused by three New Jersey and shown to cause the typical
different fungi. Phomopsis vaccinii (the fungus symptoms and is likely the true causal agent.
that causes viscid rot in fruit) is routinely Initially, a small area of weak or dead vines
isolated from symptomatic uprights and has occurs, usually in higher spots in the bog or near
been proven to cause symptoms by artificial the ditches. The area of dead vines expands
inoculations (Catlin and Caruso 2003; Catlin outward in all directions (one to two feet per
2005). Fusicoccum putrefaciens (often) and year) when environmental conditions are
Synchronoblastia crypta (rarely) are also favorable for the fungus. The expanding arc of
isolated from infected uprights and have been dead vines appears distinctly as the outward
shown to cause symptoms in artificial edge of the ring. Vines ahead of the advancing
inoculations. ring are under stress and are unproductive. A s
the fungus moves outward (and the dead area
Other fungi that may possibly infect uprights are expands), the area previously killed is fertilized
Aureobasidium, Colletotrichum, and Pestalotia. by the remains of the pathogen. The area may
Infection by these fungi in the field probably be recolonized by vines, however in many cases,
occurs at or shortly after bud break when the weeds will tend to colonize this area. In heavily
tissue is particularly susceptible. Infection may infected beds, numerous rings will be present
also occur during the entire growing season. and they may overlap or combine, resulting in
Symptoms do not appear, however, until whole sections that are devastated by the
weather-related stresses weaken the plants. A t disease.
this point, the tips are killed at the growing point
and the symptoms progress downward on the The disease was a minor problem until the
upright. widespread use of mechanical dry-picking
machines in the 1950’s. It is likely that this was
The disease can be partially controlled through due to the uprooting and transport of the vines
avoidance of stress on the plants through the by the picking machines from infected areas to
hottest (and potentially the driest) portion of the healthy areas as harvesting progressed. A s the
growing season. Early-season fungicide vines were relocated to new spots, new
applications at bud break and/or early bud infections were initiated during the succeeding
expansion have given excellent control of the growing season.
disease. Spores of the primary causal agent
Phomopsis begin to be produced from The disease is sporadic in occurrence. I t is
overwintering cranberry tissue in April and May present in many beds in the same spots from
and the emerging buds are particularly year to year with limited expansion and little
susceptible to the infection. Fungicides targeted effect on the overall productivity of the bog. In
for fruit rot control also provide a degree of some growing seasons, there will be severe
protection against this disease during early and expansion of these rings and new spots will
mid-season infection periods. show up i n that area and previously unaffected
areas will show symptoms. D amage caused by
this fungus is usually worse during growing
FAIRY RING DISEASE seasons with limited rainfall and hotter than
normal temperatures. Stevens, Ben Lear and
The basidiomycetous fungus, Psilocybe Howes are highly susceptible, while Early Black
agrariella var. vaccinii for many decades was is less susceptible but not resistant.
thought to be the causal agent of fairy ring,
although it had never been proven in artificial Control strategies for this disease have still not
inoculations and the fruiting bodies been worked out thoroughly. During those
(mushrooms) had not been observed in affected summers with low rainfall, plants should be
areas since the early 1900’s. Another fungus properly irrigated. Sprinklers should be run for
(genus still to be determined) has been cultured several hours in the early morning hours, when
from symptomatic plants in Massachusetts and there is little evaporation, to insure that the root

105
systems are properly watered. Raising the water widespread throughout Massachusetts cranberry
level in the ditches can help in this regard. This beds. Le af spots are caused by the fungi
can be a problem, however, if there are low Protoventuria myrtilli and Pyrenobotrys
areas in the same bed where Phytophthora root compacta. S ymptoms are only induced on t he
rot may also be present. The grower should try leaves; vines and berries remain healthy.
to get the bed properly graded. Productivity of the vines does not appear to be
affected. The disease is most likely kept in
Applications of Sul-Po-Mag, lime and/or urea check by the normal fruit rot fungicide program.
have shown a d egree of control of the disease.
This is due to nutritional assistance to the vines Red leaf spot is hardly ever encountered in
rather than an adverse effect on the fungal Massachusetts. I t is caused by the fungus,
pathogen. F ungicide applications in May Exobasidium rostrupii, and may cause numerous
through late June help to reduce populations of leaf spots in limited areas of the bog. Symptoms
the fungus in the soil, and are much more are usually associated with vines that have
effective than a p ost-harvest application when especially lush growth due to over-fertilization.
both the vines and the fungus are entering Ben Lear appears to be particularly susceptible.
dormancy. I n May through late June, the This disease is also probably controlled by the
pathogen is more vulnerable to the fungicide, fruit rot fungicide program.
and the vines are able to make some recovery
during the growing season. Rose bloom occurs regularly on Nantucket
Island but has not been observed on the
mainland since the 1940’s. The fungus
MINOR DISEASES Exobasidium oxycocci causes secondary buds to
develop fleshy, abnormal branches with swollen
A few comments will be made on t he minor pink leaves that look like miniature roses. Fruit
diseases listed previously. False blossom production is reduced on affected vines. Howes
disease was a major disease problem earlier this is particularly susceptible. Fungicide
century. The causal agent is a phytoplasma applications used for fruit rot control the disease.
(similar to a virus) and it is vectored by the
blunt-nosed leafhopper. H owes is very Ringspot also has been observed to a very
susceptible, whereas Early Black has a g ood limited extent in Massachusetts. It is caused by
degree of resistance to the disease. The disease a virus, and symptoms are expressed as rings on
has been eliminated (although it still is present the berries and the leaves. Howes appears to be
in wild cranberry beds) through the control of particularly susceptible, although the yields are
the leafhopper with various insecticides. not seriously reduced.
Protoventuria and especially Pyrenobotrys leaf
spots (formerly called Gibbera leaf spot) are

106
 Insect Management
Anne L. Averill and Martha M. Sylvia
Over the long term, the most effective programs In cranberry, this could involve: late water, used
that minimize yield loss due to insect or mite every few years, to reduce cranberry fruitworm,
injury utilize the principles of Integrated Pest Southern red mite, cutworm, and gypsy moth
Management (IPM). IPM relies upon numbers; sanding and trash removal to limit
knowledge of the pest species together with cranberry girdler, green spanworm, black-
utilization of sampling techniques and headed fireworm, and cranberry tipworm;
application of an array of tactics (e.g., cultural, conservation of natural enemies to impact
biological, behavioral, and chemical). The goal Sparganothis fruitworm; and proper fertilization
is to keep pest populations below an economic to limit lush growth favored by flea beetle and to
(damage) threshold, while at the same time, maintain healthy, dense stands of vines that can
weighing the impact of management choices on tolerate root-feeding insects.
environmental quality.
The purpose of this section is to provide key
Within IPM, there are two main strategies: points in cranberry insect management. To
therapeutic and preventive. T he therapeutic effectively manage pest populations, growers
approach usually involves application of not only must carry out proper identification, but
insecticides and other products, but this tactic is also be aware of the life stage or stages present
often rendered ineffective in the long term (e.g., at any given point in time. G rowers should
as a result of insecticide resistance, cranberry consult the most current Cranberry Chart Book--
weevil and Sparganothis fruitworm are resistant Management Guide for Massachusetts, which is
to Guthion, Diazinon, and Lorsban in updated annually. Color photographs of most of
Massachusetts). In contrast, the preventive the insects described in this section are
approach seeks to avoid pest outbreaks and to contained in Cranberry Insects of the Northeast
provide a more long-term solution to insect (Averill and Sylvia 1998). Several classic
problems. T his latter approach leads us away references were authored by H. Franklin
from pursuit of a ‘silver bullet’ product to (Franklin 1948; Franklin 1951).
manage high pest numbers, and towards a
preventive, ecologically based approach that
results in the moderation of pest population IDENTIFICATION OF CRANBERRY
numbers to levels below action thresholds. INSECTS AND MITES
According to Lewis (Lewis et al. 1997):
The success of any IPM program depends on the
We must go beyond replacing toxic correct identification of the pest. I nsects and
chemicals with more sophisticated, mites belong to the group of animals called
biologically based agents and re-examine the arthropods. Injury caused by the pest may often
entire paradigm around the therapeutic be indicative of the species that caused it, and in
approach including how and why those some cases, will allow immediate identification.
therapeutics are used. T ruly satisfactory However, care must be taken when management
solutions to pest problems will require a shift decisions are being considered because damage
to understanding and promoting naturally
may not appear until the pest has already
occurring biological agents and other inherent
strengths as components of total agricultural completed development.
ecosystems and designing our cropping
systems so that these natural forces keep the There are many arthropod species that are
pests within acceptable bounds. known to occur on cranberry, but only about two
dozen insects and a single mite are known to be
of economic importance. It is usually advisable

107
to be highly familiar with these pest species and fruitworm). F or both cases, the pest insect
not to be distracted by small numbers of non- population is usually vulnerable to management
pest insects that are picked up during scouting. within given windows of time.

Most pest insects in cranberry complete a single

INSECT LIFE HISTORIES generation each year, although several carry out
two or more. I nsects are not active during the
Insects undergo substantial change as they grow winter, and each species has one life stage that is
and undergo a process called metamorphosis. adapted for survival through the winter. F or
Nearly all cranberry insect pests undergo example, black-headed fireworm and gypsy
complete metamorphosis. In complete moth overwinter as eggs, Sparganothis
metamorphosis, there are four distinct stages: fruitworm overwinters as a small larva,
egg, larva, pupa, and adult (see Fig. 1). Larvae cranberry fruitworm overwinters as a l ast instar
hatch and molt and grow through several instars. larva, brown spanworm overwinters as a pupa,
The larva bears very little resemblance to the and cranberry weevil and false armyworm
adult, and it is only during this stage that the overwinter as adults.
insect grows in size. D epending on t he insect
order, the common term for the larva will be
‘caterpillar’ (moth), ‘grub’ (beetle), or ‘maggot’ DETECTING PEST INSECTS
(fly). The pupal stage follows the larval stage;
during this time, the pupa is inactive and adult Sampling and monitoring of acreage, or
structures are formed. The final stage is the scouting, allows recognition of a pest problem
adult, which emerges from the pupal case. Most and is an essential activity in insect
adults continue to eat, but they no longer molt or management. Through scouting, we can
grow. The adults mate and reproduce. accurately determine the presence or estimate
the density of a pest. Detection of pests utilizes
visual assessments of the bog as well as
sampling with a sweep net. Typically, a sweep
net is a fine mesh net attached to a 1 2-inch
diameter ring that is fixed to a long wooden
handle (Fig. 2).

Fig. 1. L ife stages for insects undergoing Number of sweep sets for a given acreage
complete metamorphosis (Averill and Sylvia for single, continuous pieces of bog
1998). (management unit):

1-10 acres 1 sweep set/acre

It is also important to understand the life history 10-20 acres at least 10 sweep sets
of each insect, which includes not only the life > 20 acres 1 sweep set per 2 A
cycle, but also the number of generations per
year, the point in the year when the life cycles
occur, and the overwintering stage and location.
When utilizing management measures, targeting Sweep netting involves sweeping back and forth
the vulnerable life stage of the insect pest is very across the vines. A single sweep is a 180-degree
often vital. S ome cranberry pests move into arc over the vines using a 1 2-inch diameter
beds from outside overwintering sites (e.g., sweep net. Sweeping should be done as one
cranberry weevil) while other pests remain in the walks across the bog, covering as much area as
beds continuously (e.g., Sparganothis possible. A sweep set consists of 25 sweeps.

108
The net should be dug into the vines to pick up (IGR, e.g., Intrepid) targets small larvae.
caterpillars that are clinging to the lower portion Second, as the caterpillars of some species grow
of the stem. Weed s patches and bare spots larger, they are harder to pick up in sweeps.
should be avoided. Sweeping should start at They cling to the vine or hide in the daytime
least 10 feet in from the bog edge. A fter (e.g., false armyworm). Thus, they are less
completing the last sweep of the set, the rim likely to be gathered in the sweep net over time.
should be tapped so the insects fall down into
the net. The contents should then be inspected Some pests (such as black-headed fireworm,
carefully. The insects should be properly cranberry weevil, gypsy moth, and brown
identified (use a 10X magnifier), counted, and spanworm) may be very patchy on a bed or may
recorded. We ekly sweeping activity typically occur in high numbers in coves or on edges.
begins the second week of May. Scouting Thus, thorough assessment of total acreage is
should continue at least until bloom, but note essential.
that some pests are active during bloom (e.g.,
brown spanworm) or after bloom (e.g., cranberry
weevil and flea beetle). Table 1. Action thresholds for common
cranberry pests, based on average numbers
of insects in sets of 25 sweeps.

Insect Threshold
Black-headed fireworm 1 to 2
Action should be considered relative
to a past history of infestation.
Sparganothis fruitworm 1 to 2
Visual search for webbed vines
or leaves should also be carried out.
Cranberry weevils 4 to 5
These small, reddish snout beetles
may play dead; thus, the net should be
left undisturbed for awhile. Sweeping
picks up higher numbers when
it is warm and sunny.
Cutworms (false armyworm, 4 to 5
cranberry blossomworm, humped
Fig. 2. Dr. Henry Franklin using a sweep net on green fruitworm, gypsy moth caterpillar)
cranberry vines. Courtesy unknown. Add up the numbers for these
caterpillars as if they are the same
kind of insect. Do not include cranberry
sawfly in your cutworm counts.
Large beds may be subdivided and managed as
smaller units depending on cultivar, chemigation Green and brown spanworm 18
design, or ability to treat aerially. I n these Small caterpillars will cling to side of the net.
instances, specific data should be collected and
management decisions evaluated for each
management unit.
Treatment of a pest population is often based
Pest levels of insect caterpillars should be on scouting. When pest insect numbers are
evaluated in their early stages for two evaluated by sweep netting, management may be
reasons. First, most species are easier to considered when the insect numbers exceed an
manage when the larva is small, and the most established action threshold (Table 1).
effective use of the new insect growth regulators

109
Cranberry thresholds are based on the average Each trap is specific to only one pest species
number of insects in sets of 25 s weeps. The (although one should check descriptions of
average number of insects at a site is calculated adults because non-pest species are sometimes
by adding up all counts in all sweep sets and caught in fairly large numbers in both the
dividing by the number of sets conducted. This cranberry girdler and black-headed fireworm
average number should be compared with the traps). Further, when interpreting results of trap
threshold values listed in Table 1. If the average data, it should be kept in mind that only males
number of a given pest on a bog is greater than are captured in these traps, and that female
or equal to the threshold, management measures activity may or may not be comparable.
should be considered.
For all of these pests, we do not have sufficient
Threshold levels for pest insects in information to correlate trap captures with an
Massachusetts cranberry have been shown to be action threshold level. Pheromone traps are
valuable in insect management for many utilized in cranberry to time application of a
decades. They represent the level of insect pest treatment, usually not to trigger the need for a
pressure that experienced workers have treatment, and sometimes to gauge whether pest
determined to be sufficiently high to be of pressure is high (e.g., for Sparganothis
concern. Thus, the decision whether to treat fruitworm or black-headed fireworm).
when a threshold is exceeded, particularly with
synthetic insecticides, should not be made For the moth pests, traps should be deployed
without bringing many other external concerns prior to onset of adult flight. O ne trap per 10
to bear (e.g., crop value, cost of management acres should be used and placed on the upwind
tactic, water concerns, weather, neighbors, side of the bog. They should be checked weekly
resistance management). and the number of insects captured carefully
recorded. For sticky traps, the bottoms should
Pheromone trapping. Pheromones are be kept free of debris and be changed if
chemical signals that are emitted and received necessary. F urther, the pheromone lure should
by members of the same species, allowing be changed every three weeks, or as
communication. S ex pheromones serve to recommended.
attract members of the opposite sex for mating.
For cranberry pest species, the female is always Pheromone traps can be employed to time
the emitter of long-range sex pheromones. applications of insecticides. D epending on t he
Synthetic compounds that copy these sex insecticide choice, different trap information is
pheromones are available for several pests in used. Check recommendations to see what point
cranberry including Sparganothis fruitworm, in the moth flight is critical for a given
cranberry girdler, and black-headed fireworm. insecticide choice. I t may be: 1) onset of
Traps containing these pheromones are regularly significant flight (biofix), 2) peak trap capture, or
employed in IPM programs. Traps are also 3) end of flight. For example, if using an insect
available for cranberry blossomworm and growth regulator (IGR, e.g., Intrepid) to manage
cranberry fruitworm, but these have limited use Sparganothis fruitworm in summer, the target is
in Massachusetts cranberry. The sex larvae just as they hatch from the egg. Thus, the
pheromones of all scarab beetle pests of recommendation is to determine the biofix,
cranberry (this includes cranberry root grub and based on t rap captures, and to apply Intrepid
cranberry white grub) have also been identified, three weeks later and again in 10 days. As
but only that of oriental beetle is commercially another example, to manage oriental beetle with
available. The pheromone is placed on a rubber Admire, an application should be made 3 weeks
septum that is used as a l ure in sticky traps to after peak flight of beetles (Averill and Sylvia
monitor moth populations or in non-sticky 2008).
catch-can traps for oriental beetle adults.

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 BEHAVIORAL CONTROL However, research by Vanden Heuvel showed
that the carbohydrate reserves in the vine
Mating disruption. When large quantities of decrease during extended fall floods and as a
synthetic pheromone are deployed in the crop, result, yield may decrease in the following year
the habitat is permeated and the frequency of (Vanden Heuvel and Botelho 2005).
successful mating is lowered. T he pheromone
application interferes with the male’s proper Sanding. Sanding on a regular basis suppresses
functioning and his normal in-flight location of cranberry girdler, green spanworm, and
females. Mating disruption has been shown to be cranberry tipworm.
effective for oriental beetle (Wenninger and
Averill 2006), black-headed fireworm, and
Sparganothis fruitworm. INSECTICIDES

A technique for pheromone release systems The primary site of action differs among the
involves retrievable point source dispensers various insecticides used in cranberry (IRAC
(e.g., pheromone impregnated ropes or twist Mode of Action Classification v. 5.3 July 2007,
ties) and another is aerosol canisters that emit http://www.irac-online.org/). This activity is
high rates of pheromone (MSTRS or ‘Metered used to group insecticides into various
semiochemical timed release system’ classifications.
http://www.mstrs.com). While there has been
considerable work in this area, particularly for Carbamates and Organophosphates. T hese
black-headed fireworm, the mating disruption groups include the conventional active
tactic has not been widely adopted. This has led ingredients that have been used for many years
to patchy availability of commercial systems. in cranberry insect management. Sevin,
For the latest updates, contact the UMass Diazinon, Orthene, and Lorsban are in these
Cranberry Station. groups. They are broad spectrum (often toxic to
bees and natural enemies) in activity and often
have high toxicity to humans. They target the
CULTURAL CONTROL nervous system and are acetycholinesterase
inhibitors. M ost members of these groups are
Late water floods (April 15 - May 15) can be being reduced (in terms of usage) or phased out.
used to manage the following pests: cutworms,
gypsy moth, cranberry fruitworm, and Southern Insect Growth Regulators (IGR). This group
red mite (SRM). L ate water is especially interferes with molting or metamorphosis. In
effective against SRM; populations may be cranberry, IGRs include Confirm and Intrepid,
lowered for two seasons (Averill et al. 1997). which are caterpillar specific, conserve bees and
beneficial insects, and have low human toxicity.
Summer floods (May 12 to July 20) may be These compounds are most effective when
used to eliminate cranberry root grubs and white applied multiple times and in low gallonage
grubs. This is a drastic measure since the crop against small caterpillars feeding on foliage.
for that season will be lost and may be reduced Intrepid has higher activity than Confirm, but
in the following year. Intrepid is a restricted use compound and is
Zone II restricted. Thorough coverage is
Harvest floods and fall floods historically have essential and new growth is not protected; rain,
been important in soil insect management. F or irrigation, or chemigation washout will remove
cranberry girdler (see following section on active material. Death may not be observed
girdler), using a harvest flood on early cultivars, until a week or more has passed.
together with regular removal of trash, can
usually keep the insect in check. A longer fall Spinosyns (e.g., spinosad, spinetoram). These
flood is highly effective for suppressing black target the nervous system, interfering with the
vine weevil and strawberry root weevil. insect’s normal functioning at the synapse,

111
causing paralysis and death. They work via Check with the UMass Cranberry Station for
contact and ingestion and have low non-target updates.
impact. This group includes the products,
Delegate, SpinTor, and Entrust. Natural populations of beneficial organisms can
also help to manage insect pests. Predators and
Indoxacarb. A vaunt, which acts against the parasitoids that coexist in the bog environment
nervous system, leads to nerve dysfunction in play an important role in regulating pest levels.
the insect. It is particularly effective against This role should be enhanced wherever possible
caterpillars. by avoiding unnecessary insecticide treatments
to encourage natural enemy populations through
Neonicotinoids. This group targets the nervous conservation. Broad-spectrum clean-up sprays
system and the mode of action is similar to the destroy natural enemies, so these should be
natural insecticide, nicotine. Their action causes avoided. Whenever possible, if there is a control
excitation of the nerves, paralysis and death. option that will preserve beneficial species, it
They exhibit systemic activity in the plant. In should be utilized.
other plant systems, studies suggest increased
numbers of mites with the use of neonicotinoids,
but this is not documented in cranberry. This REVIEW OF CRANBERRY INSECTS
group includes Actara and Admire.
CRANBERRY WEEVIL
Microbial Disruptors of Midgut Membranes. Anthonomus musculus (Say)
These are the Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.) Coleoptera: Curculionidae
products that works as a stomach poison specific
only to moth larvae. They must be eaten to be Description. This is a key pest. Cranberry
effective, applications must be well timed weevils are very small reddish-brown beetles
against small larvae, and be applied in low that are ca. 1/16th inch long. T he weevil has a
gallonage. B .t. products have not been widely slightly curved snout about a third as long as the
adopted in Massachusetts cranberry, largely rest of the body.
because other reduced-risk options perform
better. Damage. A dult weevils are found on the bog
throughout the growing season. Both larvae and
adults injure the cranberry vine. Adults feed on
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL the foliage, terminal buds, and blossom buds in
the spring and on f ruits, foliage, and terminal
Beneficial nematodes can be applied to manage buds in the summer. Feeding injury often
cranberry girdler, black vine weevil, and appears as small irregular holes on leaf
strawberry root weevil, but availability is not undersides or small fruit. Because the female
always guaranteed. A pplication timing for often severs the bud f rom the plant following
cranberry girdler is based on moth flight data egglaying, clipped pedicels are an indication of
collected from pheromone traps. N ematode possible weevil infestation.
applications for black vine weevil and
strawberry root weevil management are made in Life History. There are one or two generations
May and/or September. N ematodes need moist per year. Adults emerge from overwintering
conditions. Irrigation should be carried out sites in April and feed on blueberry prior to new
before the nematode application to thoroughly growth appearing on c ranberry. A dults appear
wet the bog and immediately after the on the bog from mid-May through mid-June
application for four to five hours (1/2 inch). A (Fig. 3), likely flying in from the surrounding
recently discovered nematode species, woodlands. Once on the bog, the weevils feed
Steinernema scarabaei, shows high mortality on the tender new growth, including blossom
against scarab beetle larvae, but rearing and buds. Later in the spring, mated females insert
production difficulties currently limit its use. eggs between the petals of the developing

112
blossom buds. U sually, a single egg is placed CRANBERRY FRUITWORM
inside each blossom and the white, legless larva Acrobasis vaccinii Riley
eats out the internal flower parts. Following Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
pupation, which also occurs within the bud, the
adult exits the bud and feeds on foliage and This insect is a key fruit pest. I t is one of the
newly set fruit. The life cycle from egg to adult most common pest species in Massachusetts and
is completed in less than two months. has the potential to cause significant losses in
cranberry production.

Description. The larva is usually green with a

tan head capsule, although as it reaches full size
at about ½ inch, the green color is often tinged
with red/pink on the back. The moth is light-
dark grayish, often with white triangles on the
forewings; it is about 3/8 inch long.

Fig. 3. Cranberry weevil life cycle (Averill and

Sylvia 1998).

Management. Beds should be monitored with

sweep nets through early spring into June on
warm, calm days. Adults may immigrate onto
beds non-synchronously over an extended Fig. 4. Cranberry fruitworm life cycle (Averill
period. If the action threshold is exceeded early, and Sylvia 1998).
it may be advisable to hold off on an insecticide
application and continue sweeping to determine
if weevil numbers continue to rise. However, Life History. Around mid- to late-June, moths
waiting becomes risky as soon as blossom buds begin to emerge and mate. T he moths fly at
appear, because females will begin to lay eggs. dusk and are highly secretive and inactive during
For weevil management, it helps to have a the day. T he female moths deposit eggs singly
compilation of sweep records over time; at the blossom end, or calyx, of the developing
population trends are often consistent among cranberries; the eggs are placed inside the rim of
years. Populations on the bog are often the calyx cup. Females discriminate against
concentrated in neck areas near wooded uplands, pinheads, and will deposit large numbers of eggs
allowing the option of localized spraying. Over only after the pinheads begin to enlarge.
the years, weevils have become resistant to most
insecticides used in management programs. The flattened, oblong eggs develop through
several stages, green to yellow to orange-lined,

113
in five or six days and then hatch. The newly If treating with insecticides, timing of the first
hatched larva typically crawls over the surface fruitworm spray is often critical; it occurs at the
of the fruit from its place of emergence at the point of peak egg-laying. The first treatment
blossom end, and enters the fruit close to the should be applied 7-9 days after 50% out-of-
stem. Its entrance is so small that it is barely bloom (half the blossoms have lost all petals to
visible to the unaided eye. It eats the seeds and become fruits) for Howes and Early Black. This
usually much of the fruit flesh prior to moving to interval should be shortened to 5-7 days for Ben
a new berry. One larva usually eats the interior Lear and 3-5 days for Stevens. Female moths
of about three to six berries (the number varying typically wait until pinheads have begun to
with berry size). W hen small through medium enlarge to lay eggs. Because the newer large-
size, the larva usually covers its entrance into the fruited cultivars may size up more rapidly,
fruit with white silk. The larva frequently fruitworm sprays may be tricky, and it is
moves from one berry directly into another at important to keep an eye on these beds. A
the point of berry contact. As the berry becomes second treatment should be made about 10 days
full of the larva’s brown excrement (frass), it after the first treatment.
turns red prematurely. T hese red fruit are
usually the first sign of infestation. Damaged
berries gradually dry and shrivel like raisins. Table 2. Action thresholds for cranberry
They may cling to the vines as husks until the fruitworm.
next year.
No. of No. of No. of viable
The larvae are generally most active from mid- acres berries eggs needed to
July to mid-August. W hen feeding is checked consider spray
completed, a larva exits the fruit, enters the bog
soil to a depth of ca. 1 i nch, and spins a 0-5 200-250 1
hibernaculum (protective covering) of sand and 5-7 251-350 2
trash in which the pre-pupa overwinters. The 7-9 351-450 3
average cocoon is about 3/8 inch long. I n late 9-11 451-550 4
spring, the pre-pupa forms a pupa and the first 11-13 551-650 5
moths emerge in June (Fig. 3). The moths move 13-15 651-750 6
extensively throughout the uplands.
each add 100 add 1
Cranberry Fruitworm Management. add’l berries egg
Cranberry fruitworm management should target 2 acres
eggs only. The first one or two sprays should be
carefully timed based on phenology (% out-of-
bloom) of the cranberry plant. For the standard After the first two spray applications using the
practice, to time the first spray application, standard practice based on crop phenology,
calculate the percent out-of-bloom (%OOB) Table 2 c an be utilized to determine the
every few days as pinheads start to form, usually necessity of additional sprays for sites that have
around the end of June. For each acre of bog, moderate to high fruitworm populations. At
randomly collect 10 uprights and record the these high pressure sites, moths may be present
number of flower buds, flowers, pinheads, and and egg-laying may continue right into August.
fruit. Calculate % OOB using the following: A week after the second treatment, 50 randomly
picked berries per acre (with a minimum of 200
berries per piece, no matter how small) should
No. pinheads + fruit be inspected for eggs. If no egg is found, berry
X 100 inspection should be repeated every three to four
No. buds + flowers + pinheads + fruit days until August 15.

114
For sites with low cranberry fruitworm pressure, They wriggle fiercely when disturbed, similar to
the second treatment may be eliminated through their fireworm relatives. The moths are 2/3 to
examination of fruit for eggs, also using the 5/8 inch long, and have highly distinctive sulfur-
action threshold values found in Table 2. In this yellow wings with a brown “X” shaped mark
instance, the first spray is applied based on crop when at rest.
phenology as described above. However, rather
than applying the second spray in 10 days, fruit Life History. T he first generation spends the
inspection begins 5 days after the first spray. winter as a tiny larva (first instar) on t he bog
The guidelines for the number of unhatched, (Fig. 5). The larva becomes active as so on as
viable eggs are used as the determinant for any new tip growth appears in the spring in mid to
additional sprays. late May. It webs together two leaves, often like
a sandwich, within which it feeds. S ince the
Sprays made in an attempt to control larvae in larvae are already on the bog in mid-May, they
the fruit have been shown to have very limited can be sampled by sweep netting. Sparganothis
impact. R esearch shows that once the larvae caterpillars can also be found in loosestrife,
burrow into the berry, sprays are minimally where they fold and web the leaves. A s larvae
effective. become larger, they web together cranberry
uprights in tent-like fashion. I n June and July,
In blueberry plantings, moth emergence usually the larvae pupate and emerge as m oths. The
coincides with the start of bloom and pheromone female moths lay eggs in masses of 10-30 on
traps may be employed in management leaves, fruit, and weeds.
recommendations. However, in cranberry, onset
of moth emergence occurs prior to onset of
bloom and there is little relationship between
moth captures and egg-laying activity.

SPARGANOTHIS FRUITWORM
Sparganothis sulfureana (Clemens)
Lepidoptera: Tortricidae

This species is a k ey pest. B ecause it has a

broad range of natural enemies, we may see
lowered populations as broad-spectrum
insecticide sprays in early and mid-season are
eliminated and beneficial parasitic wasp and fly
species increase in number.
Fig. 5. Depiction of the life cycle of
Sparganothis fruitworm goes through two Sparganothis fruitworm (Averill and Sylvia
generations each year. Moths are very rarely 1998).
captured in sex pheromone traps deployed in the
uplands around Massachusetts beds, suggesting
that they do move much outside of the bog. Damage by t he second generation begins when
eggs hatch, usually 9-12 days after being laid.
Description. The first instar is a black-headed These larvae feed on both foliage and fruit. They
larva resembling a black-headed fireworm. do the most damage by partially feeding on
However, when the larva molts to the second many berries (scoring) and, particularly on B en
instar, it loses the black head; it now has a Lear, may feed inside the fruit. In berries, it is
yellow head and the body is yellow or greenish- possible to distinguish between the two
yellow and is impossible to distinguish from fruitworms by the type of damage: cranberry
yellow-headed fireworm with the naked eye. fruitworm fills the berry with brown frass, and

115
the berry becomes mushy while Sparganothis early to mid May. The newly hatched
tends to be a much tidier feeder. These larvae caterpillars may burrow into the cranberry leaf
feed into August and September, pupate, and or terminal buds. Then, on the new shoots, older
emerge as moths in the fall. The female moths caterpillars will web a few leaves together. As it
then lay eggs that hatch, and the tiny larvae matures, larger larvae web several uprights
overwinter. together, and create several of these tents before
feeding is completed.
Management. The spring generation is
monitored during sweep netting. B ecause of The caterpillar has a highly distinct shiny black
their webbing behavior, only small numbers of head, black neck, and a dingy green body.
larvae are picked up. If treating the second Mature caterpillars are 1/3 – 1/2 inch long. First
generation, pheromone traps should be utilized generation moths appear in June and second
to time an insecticide two weeks after peak moth generation larvae then appear during bloom and
flight (or earlier, based on biofix, if using fruit set in July. The moths of the second
growth regulators) (see Pheromone trapping generation lay overwintering eggs singly on t he
section above). W ith both generations, bottom of leaves in late July through August.
treatment should target the small caterpillars.
Because they are webbed up in the vines,
Sparganothis fruitworm management is often sweeping misses many larvae, particularly when
difficult. R esistance to organophosphate they are small. If the vines are overgrown,
insecticides has appeared in the last 20 years and populations may become very asynchronous.
new alternatives have replaced them. Late water Because eggs are on the underside of leaves,
has not been shown to be effective in killing this they may be transported to new locations on
insect, but the flood may synchronize the vines used for new plantings.
population following the removal of the flood.
Larger larvae are difficult to kill, and sprays Yellow-headed Fireworm
aimed at them may aggravate the situation by Acleris minuta (Robinson)
killing off parasitoids that are important in
keeping numbers in check naturally. Typically, yellow-headed fireworm is found on
bed edges where there was an incomplete winter
flood. There are three generations a year. The
FIREWORMS moths of the first two summer generations are
Lepidoptera: Tortricidae orange-yellow (and fly in June and August) and
the third generation moths are slate-gray. T he
Black-headed Fireworm moths overwinter.
Rhopobota naevana (Hübner)
Eggs may be laid in April and hatch in May.
The black-headed fireworm, a common and Larvae are very similar in appearance to
highly damaging pest species in most other Sparganothis fruitworm. A larva feeds
cranberry growing regions, has recently intensively in a m essy tent comprised of many
reemerged as major problem in Massachusetts uprights and is associated with abundant silk and
after several decades of low pest status. Damage frass.
from black-headed fireworm infestations can
spread very quickly and unchecked summer CUTWORMS
populations can devastate beds. Lepidoptera: Noctuidae
Black-headed fireworm typically has only two A number of different caterpillars attack
generations a year, but a partial third may occur. cranberry vines in May and June. T he best-
The small moth is 3/8 inch long and is dark known and most-damaging species are false
grayish brown, with silvery markings. The round armyworm, cranberry blossomworm, and
and yellow overwintering eggs start hatching in humped green fruitworm.

116
 False Armyworm five pairs (versus two pairs; Fig. 6 and 7) of hind
Xylena nupera (Litner) legs that appear in their midsection. Cutworms
are large-bodied, almost bloated-looking
Cranberry Blossomworm caterpillars that can reach 1.5 to 2 inches long
Epiglaea apiata (Grote) when mature.

Humped Green Fruitworm Young cutworm caterpillars, particularly false

Amphipyra pyramidoides (Guenée) armyworm, often do great harm by eating out
the hearts of the terminal buds before new
Other cutworm species may only occur from growth starts. They develop with the new
time to time, frequently as a r esult of highly growth and feed more and more voraciously as
mobile moths dropping their eggs into the moist, they mature, devouring leaves, buds, and
favorable environment of the cranberry beds. flowers. T hey feed freely in the daytime as
young caterpillars. Unlike blossomworm and
Description. Young cranberry blossomworm false armyworm, which are nocturnal in the later
caterpillars are mostly green with a tinge of pink instars, humped green fruitworm may feed
or purple but as they grow, they become mostly during the day even as a large caterpillar.
red or purple with a white stripe along the side.
Young false armyworm caterpillars are more By the end of June, all mature caterpillars have
difficult to identify. They are grey-green with completed development and pupate into moths
small black dots with slender hairs only visible later in the summer.
under magnification. Tiny caterpillars loop like
spanworms, but the older caterpillars do not. Management. S prays should target small
They are easily identified as they become larger larvae. Insect growth regulator products are
(3/8 inch) with lime green bodies and white lines particularly effective against these insects when
along each side of the body. T he caterpillar of they are small. Older large caterpillars are much
the humped green fruitworm is similar to false harder to sample and control.
armyworm but has a prominent hump on its
back section. The humped green fruitworm
caterpillar is apple green and has a thin GYPSY MOTH
continuous white line running down its back Lymantria dispar L.
along with a patchy yellow line down the side. Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae

Description. W hen young, gypsy moth

caterpillars are very hairy and totally black. As
they mature, they are covered with long black
hairs and have prominent red and blue bumps;
they have five pairs of blue spots followed by
Fig. 6. Illustration of a cutworm (Averill and six pairs of red spots. They may be one to two
Sylvia 1998). Note five pairs of hind legs. inches long when mature.

Life History. The female moth does not fly and

Life History. Both cranberry blossomworm and lays overwintering eggs in large masses, usually
humped green fruitworm moths fly during in the vicinity of where she completed larval
harvest and lay eggs that overwinter on the bog. development. Eggs are able to overwinter on the
In comparison, false armyworm overwinters as a bog, even under winter floods. The eggs hatch
moth and lays masses of eggs in the spring. from late April into June. G ypsy moths are
Regardless of when eggs were laid, they begin particularly troublesome as t hey may hatch in
hatching in early May and feed on the cranberry surrounding pine trees and blow into the bog
vines. C utworm caterpillars can be from great distances. The tiny caterpillars
distinguished from spanworm caterpillars by the disperse from trees by letting out a silken thread

117
that is picked up and blown by the wind. Older June. The moths emerge in July and scatter their
caterpillars walk onto the bog if they have eggs among the trash litter under the vines.
exhausted the foliage in the surrounding oak-
pine woods. G ypsy moth populations have Brown Spanworm
declined overall in the Northeast region. Ematurga amitaria (Guenée)

Management. Gypsy moth should be counted The young larvae are light brown with a whitish
in with cutworm numbers during sweep counts. stripe along each side and another along the
They behave similarly and may have potential middle of the back. F ull-grown larvae are a
for even greater injury. Y oung caterpillars eat little over an inch long, usually grayish brown
the developing buds and as the caterpillar grows, and may vary in markings. Brown spanworm
devours leaves, buds, and flowers. overwinters as a pupa in the leaf litter on the bog
and emerge as moths in late May. T he moth
lays eggs in June in clusters of up to 20 i n the
SPANWORMS leaf litter of the bog floor. These eggs begin to
Lepidoptera: Geometridae hatch in mid-June, much later than cutworms or
green spanworms. For sprays to be effective,
Another group of caterpillars that attack they must target the young caterpillars (1/4 – 1/2
cranberry are called spanworms, loopers, or inch long). B rown spanworm larvae are
inchworms, because of the way they move particularly hard to manage with many broad-
across a surface. They stretch out at full length, spectrum insecticides because their late spring
take hold with the front legs, and then bring appearance coincides with the placement of bee
forward the hind end close to the front pairs of hives onto the beds. Growth regulator products
feet in a looping manner. This habit is due to are a good spray option, but may require two or
the lack of several legs (that other caterpillars more treatments. I nfestations can be very
have) to support the middle of the body. T he severe, with the larvae nipping off many
hind part has only two pairs of legs (Fig. ?). blossoms and gouging small berries.
These larvae are more slender than most
caterpillars. T hey are hairless and feed openly,
never sewing leaves together. Larval defenses
include both behavioral and physical traits.
When disturbed, they cling to their support by
the hind pairs of legs and remain straight and
motionless and they typically are cryptically
colored to harmonize with their background or Fig. 7. Illustration of a spanworm (Averill and
may resemble plant parts. Sylvia 1998). Note two pairs of hind legs.
Green Spanworm
Itame sulphurea (Packard) Great Cranberry Spanworm
Eutrapela clemataria (J.E. Sm.)
The eggs of green spanworm hatch from May 15
to June 1, a little later than many of the The moth is commonly called the ‘curve-toothed
cutworms. The larvae usually nip off flower geometer’ and is light gray, dully variegated
buds and blossoms by severing the stem. When with rusty brown. T he wings spread about 2
extremely abundant, they attack the leaves and inches. Egg clusters hatch toward mid-June.
sometimes may cause brown discoloration to a The caterpillars are almost black at first, but as
small area of bog. Green spanworms are green they grow they become chocolate brown. The
with several white lines along the back and sides mature larva is fully 2.5 inches long. Most of its
and a narrow light yellow stripe along each side. surface is very smooth. A noticeable dark ridge
They stop feeding when they are about an inch bearing a f ew low bumps crosses the back
long and pupate in the trash layer around mid- opposite the second pair of legs. G reat

118
cranberry spanworm overwinters as a p upa, SOIL INSECTS
emerges as a moth late in May. The worms
mature and pupate in July. They prefer to sever A confusing array of soil insects is known to
the flower buds and blossoms. There is one attack cranberry roots, including scarab beetles
generation a year. (e.g., cranberry root grub, cranberry white grub),
weevils (black vine weevil, strawberry root
This species, which usually occurs in distinct weevil) and a sod webworm, cranberry girdler
patches, can be particularly destructive on rare (Dunn and Averill 1996). In the last 20 years,
occasions. S pot treating with a b ackpack two additional scarab beetle species have been
sprayer has been highly effective, and saves identified: two small brown chafer-type beetles:
treating larger acreage that chiefly is not Oriental beetle and Hoplia equina, as well as a
infested. B ecause of the large size that these leaf beetle, striped colaspis. I t is important to
worms attain, their sweep net count should be know the life cycle of these insects to properly
weighted in sweep counts like cutworms. time inspection of the bog soil for the
immatures. For species with a single generation
per year, searches in damaged areas will be
Winter Moth futile once the adults have emerged. H owever,
Operophtera brumata L. damage by insects can be distinguished from
damage caused by Phytophthora root rot. R oot
Winter moth has only recently appeared as a rot occurs in poorly drained areas, frequently in
pest in southeastern Massachusetts and on inner bog areas; soil insects most frequently
cranberry. T his insect has long been a p est in appear on bog edges, usually in well-drained
Europe and likely made its way into the US via regions.
Canada. Unfortunately, the larvae hatch in early
spring and could do m uch damage before Areas infested with the various kinds of root
sweeping begins on cranberry in mid-May. feeding insects are characteristic in several
ways. F or the soil insect species described
Winter moth larvae feed on a number of below, the grubs feed on the fibrous roots, often
deciduous trees including oak, maple, and ash. so thoroughly that the vines will roll back easily
They prefer fruit trees such as apple, crabapple, like a carpet of commercial turf. Many species
cherry and blueberry. W hen given a choice, of grubs will be in the soil just below where the
they abandon cranberry, but under no-choice vine was rolled up, about three to four inches
conditions, the larvae will eat cranberry. down. U nder cold or very dry conditions, the
Because the female moths do not fly, if a few grubs may move deeper down in the soil. I n
develop on cranberry, many eggs will be laid some cases, when the grubs have fed on the
there the following year. The moths are active small roots, the vines will look sickly and weak
in November and December. Female moths are and then will die suddenly following stressful
gray and wingless and can be found at the base conditions such as drought or herbicide
of trees. Males are small, brown to tan moths. application.

Larvae hatch in April, but can hatch as early as

March if weather permits. O n cranberry, the CRANBERRY GIRDLER
larvae may be delayed until the buds enlarge Chrysoteuchia topiaria (Zeller)
around May 1. T he tiny larvae burrow into Lepidoptera: Pyralidae
developing buds, preferring the flowering buds.
Once they have eaten out one bud, they move The adult girdler is a moth. The girdler larvae
onto another bud. The larvae closely resemble live in the trash (leaf litter) layer on the floor of
green spanworms seen on beds. the bog and feed from July through September.

Unlike most of the cranberry soil insects, which

are beetles, the cranberry girdler adult is a moth.

119
Adult moths usually emerge throughout June. and will recover if they are not mistreated
The moths generally remain concealed among further. The wounds gradually heal by growth
the vines or in the grass of dikes but are easily along their margins, but the scars remain for
flushed and are day active. W hen disturbed, several years. Where girdler injury has not been
they often fly 10-20 feet with a quick, jerky severe enough to kill the vines, it often impairs
flight before darting into the vines again. their vitality and reduces the quantity and quality
Female moths are more likely to drop into the of the berries.
bog’s trash layer when disturbed and to take
shorter flights than males (Fitzpatrick 2007).
The moth is about 3/8 inch long, silvery with SOIL INSECTS — BEETLE GROUP
light brown outer edges, and has a snout-like
‘nose’ (actually the labial palps—sensory Scarab Beetles
appendages associated with the mouthparts). Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae
Female moths produce on average about two
hundred eggs that are scattered at random on the If an infestation of white grubs is discovered, it
sand or trash under the vines. is important to correctly identify the species.
The cranberry root grub larva is covered with
The caterpillars have sooty-white bodies that are reddish-brown hairs and this allows it to be
about 5/8-3/4 inch long when full grown and distinguished from cranberry white grub,
will only be found in late summer and fall. They oriental beetle, and Hoplia equina. These last
are very difficult to detect, because of their small three species are not covered with hair, are white
size and concealed feeding habits. They are and cylindrical and can be told apart from one
found in the leaf litter where they gnaw on the another by inspecting the pattern of stiff hairs
bark and wood of the vine resulting in very and spines found on their last abdominal
typical plant injury. D amage becomes more segment (Averill and Sylvia 1998). These pests
apparent later in the fall when attacked vines die cause damage when the larvae feed on the roots
back. When the larva forms a cocoon in the fall, of the cranberry plant.
it is even more difficult to detect because it is
constructed of leaf litter and sand. Cranberry Root Grub
Lichnanthe vulpina (Hentz)
Unchecked populations may result in infestation
of the entire bog. Nematode applications have The adult beetle is about 5/8 inch long. T he
been used effectively, typically applied 2 weeks males have a distinctive coat of yellowish, fox-
after the end of moth flight. Regular sanding is red hair, as do f emales, but the female’s hair
a very important practice in suppressing girdler. covering is much thinner. The wings are
Lab studies suggest that fall flooding may be medium brown and do not cover the entire
effective if: 1) the water is on for 2-3 days, 2) abdomen. Adults spend most of their time in the
the water is fairly warm (ca. 68ºF) and 3) it is soil and have been reported to emerge
early enough in the season (September) such that synchronously to mate. The adults tend to hover
late instars are still feeding and have not yet over the ground surface when they fly, and
constructed cocoons (Fitzpatrick 2007). The because of their yellowish hair, may resemble
standard harvest flood recommendation has bees. The grubs are usually about one inch long
called for a longer flood of one week, occurring when full grown and are covered with reddish-
before September 25. Recent work has shown brown hairs. T he grub body appears slightly
that early harvest floods may have negative compressed from top to bottom and each foot
effects on the vines (Vanden Heuvel and has a claw on the end. Using these clues, these
Botelho 2005). grubs can be distinguished from white grub
when they are small. In comparison to cranberry
When an infestation is checked, a large number root grub, white grubs are whiter, are not
of vines (other than those that are dead or covered with hair and do not have flattened
injured beyond recovery) are only partly girdled bodies; the end of the white grub foot looks like

120
a paw, and does not have the distinctive claw of Hoplia grubs are 5/8 inch long. Hoplia emerge
the cranberry root grub. as adults in June or July of their second year.
Adult beetles emerge late in the afternoon from
Since it takes several years for the grub to the soil, mate, and then return to the soil to lay
complete development into an adult beetle, all eggs. The adult beetle is oval-shaped, only 5/16
sizes of cranberry root grub may be found in an inches long, and vary in color from light brown
infestation because of overlapping broods. to dark brown.
Cranberry root grub infestations are often found
in bog margins, but infestations throughout a Oriental Beetle
bog are not uncommon. The grub has only been Anomala orientalis Waterhouse
found on c ranberry and is well adapted to the
wet conditions of cranberry beds. These beetles are similar in size to Japanese
beetles, about 5/8 inch long. B eetles vary
Cranberry White Grub greatly in color and wing pattern, ranging from
Phyllophaga anxia (LeConte) straw-colored to black and may have no
markings or may be covered with black
The adults of the white grub are called May markings. Adult emergence begins in June-July
beetles, or more commonly, June bugs. The and peak activity occurs from mid-July to very
adult is about 7/8 inch long, reddish brown early August with beetles emerging at dusk. The
without markings. A lthough the larvae pupate oriental beetle typically has one generation per
late in the summer and emerge as ad ults, they year, with a small portion of the population
stay in the bog soil and overwinter as a beetle. taking two years. The larvae overwinter in the
They emerge from the soil in early to mid-May. soil and migrate to the soil surface in the spring
The beetles are active at dusk and feed (on tree when temperatures reach about 50°F. They then
foliage, not cranberry), mate, and lay eggs. The feed for about 2 m onths before pupating. T he
beetles attracted to lights at night may or may adult stage is not considered a pest.
not be cranberry white grub adults; there are
many similar-appearing species. Damage can occur in patches, and damaged vine
may radiate from these areas through subsequent
The C-shaped white grubs are the largest of the generations. Oriental beetle grubs are similar in
cranberry soil insects and are over 1.25 inches appearance to small white grub. F or correct
long when mature. They are white and become identification, specimens should be brought to
black toward the end. All different sizes of the UMass Cranberry Station for microscopic
grubs can be seen at one time because the life inspection of the hair patterns on their hind ends.
cycle takes from 3-4 years, and the broods Full-sized oriental beetle grubs are 3/4 inch
overlap. Cranberry white grub is usually found long.
on high margins of the bog. Adult beetles may
also be seen in the soil when sampling.
CHRYSOMELID SOIL INSECTS
Hoplia equina LeConte Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae

Hoplia has a two-year life cycle (compared to Striped Colaspis

the longer life cycles of root and cranberry white Colaspis costipennis Crotch
grub). A s a result, Hoplia infestations seem to
spread quickly. This is a distinctive, small leaf beetle that can be
picked up in infested areas in fairly large
Hoplia grubs are similar in appearance to small numbers during daytime sweeping in June. The
white grubs. For correct identification, beetles are oval and are only 3/16 inch long.
specimens should be brought to the UMass The head and back are metallic green and the
Cranberry Station for microscopic inspection of wing covers are dark yellow and black striped.
the hair patterns on their hind ends. Full-size The legs are yellow. The adult beetles feed on

121
the uppermost leaves of the cranberry upright, Strawberry Root Weevil
resulting in ragged notching on t he leaf edges. Otiorhynchus ovatus (L.)
In an area of vine dieback, this could provide a
clue that damage is due to infestation by this Strawberry root weevil is an occasional problem.
insect. The grubs are only about a 1/4 inch long This weevil looks like black vine weevil except
and are whitish with a yellow head. There is one that it i s significantly smaller, only 1/5 to 1/4
generation per year. They can be seen in infested inch long, and has a reddish to brownish
areas in the spring through May to early June coloration. N ight sweeping in June-July picks
and also late in the fall. They overwinter as up these weevils. The grubs are legless and are
almost fully grown grubs. Infestations are more only 1/4 inch long when full grown. They feed
common on upland beds. on many plants, including strawberries, nursery
crops, and hemlock.
Curculionid Soil Weevils
Coleoptera: Curculionidae In general, black vine weevil is found in beds
that are seldom flooded. Strawberry root weevil
Black Vine Weevil populations tend to appear in beds that are
Otiorhynchus sulcatus (F.) winter flooded, but that have high sections.
Infestations of both weevils can be managed
This is a k ey pest on the West Coast, and with beneficial nematode applications or fall
occasionally appears in Massachusetts beds. It flooding.
is called a snout beetle because the adults have a
long, curved beak. The adult is black with
yellow flecks and is 2/5 to 3/8 inch long. It has
a hard-shelled body and cannot fly. The adults OTHER MISCELLANEOUS PESTS
emerge in June through July. Weeks pass before
they begin to lay their eggs; in the meantime, Southern Red Mite
they feed on cranberry and other plants in the Oligonychus ilicis (McGregor)
area, such as dewberries (running brambles). Acari: Tetranychidae
The adult feeding creates a very characteristic
notch on the leaf edge, but adults are not This species is not an insect but a m ite that
considered harmful. D uring the day, the adults belongs in the class of animals that also includes
hide out in the leaf litter; at night, the weevils spiders. The mites pierce the upper surfaces of
move up on the foliage to feed. Night sweeping the cranberry leaves and suck their juices,
in June through July, particularly when it is leaving minute brownish scars. T hey do not
warm, will pick up the weevils in areas of typically affect the undersides of the leaves. A
infestation. Black vine weevils feed on a range severe infestation gives the foliage a
of herbaceous and woody plants such as characteristic dingy green appearance in summer
rhododendrons, azaleas, yews, and grapes. and an orange, burnt color later in the season.
Stippling, or tiny spots where the chlorophyll (or
The larvae are yellowish white and appear C- green color) is removed from the leaf, is a
shaped in the soil. Of the soil insects, only black classic sign of Southern red mite damage. They
vine weevil and strawberry root weevil are are also a pest of broadleaf evergreens, such as
legless. The grubs overwinter, and may be azalea, holly, and rhododendron.
found in the fall and in the spring. B ecause
there is one generation per year, no g rubs are The mites pass the winter in the egg stage,
found in late spring and summer. O ften, vine mostly on t he cranberry foliage where the first
weevil damage appears similar to cranberry adults of the season are found in May. O nce
girdler because the grubs feed on the bark of the these mites complete development, the female
vine below the trash level, although the feeding mites lay eggs in June and July, and these hatch
is seldom as deep as that of cranberry girdler. by mid-July. As the season continues, mites of
all stages are found on the cranberry leaves.

122
The eggs are spherical, usually deep red, shiny, Cranberry Tipworm
and measure less than 1/100 inch in diameter. Dasineura oxycoccana (Johnson)
The overwintering eggs are laid, usually singly, Diptera: Cecidomyiidae
on the cranberry bark and leaves. The summer
eggs are laid mostly on the new growth. The tipworm adult is a tiny fly. Adults emerge
early in May. There are several generations
The mites grow considerably after they hatch, through the growing season with activity
having three pairs of legs at first but four pairs sometimes extending into early September. The
later. They pass through several stages and are populations peak in May and June due to the
still so small when mature that it takes good eyes abundance of succulent new growth, which is
to observe them. At full size, they are still only optimal for the development of larvae.
1/100 inch in size. They are then mostly deep
reddish-brown and look like minute spiders. The female lays eggs at the base of the leaves in
Hatched egg shells and white cast ‘skins’ on the the tips of the upright. The eggs hatch into tiny
backs of the cranberry leaves signal a current or maggots that feed on t he developing leaflets.
past infestation. These larvae are transparent when first hatching,
become white in the next instar, and finally,
Holding late water is an excellent option in orange. Their feeding causes a characteristic
southern red mite management. L ate water cupping of the growing tip that eventually dies
suppresses or eliminates the mite populations in and turns brown.
the year of the flood and suppresses populations
the following year as well. Results of a multi-year study show that while
early-season tipworm damage may be very high,
late-season infestation is generally negligible,
Red-headed Flea Beetle and good vine health enhances rebudding.
Systena frontalis (F.) Appearance of damage does not mean that
Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae insects are still present. O nly late-season
damage appears to impact yield, and late-season
The shiny black adult is 1/8 to 1/5 inch long populations are typically very low or
with a r eddish head. L ike fleas, they have nonexistent.
enlarged back legs that allow them to jump.
Adults are active in late July through September. Leafminers
The adult beetle skeletonizes both upper and
lower leaf surfaces and may occasionally gouge Two cranberry leafminers, Coptodisca negligens
berries. Many beetles feed in one area, often on and Nepticulid sp., may be found on cranberry
lush overgrowth creating patches of damage beds. Both leafminers are microlepidoptera, tiny
across a bog. A dult feeding can impact bud moths less than 1/8 inch long. T he Coptodisca
development for the following year. moth is silvery black with a fringe on the base of
its wings. The Nepticulid moth is black with a
Overwintering eggs are laid into the soil near the distinct silver stripe along the base of its wings.
roots in August and September. E gg hatch
occurs in June and the larva feeds on the roots, The Coptodisca moths emerge during bloom and
stems, and runners of cranberry and/or weeds. the females lay eggs by piercing the underside of
While cranberry root damage has not been the leaf. These eggs then overwinter. In the
documented in Massachusetts, it has been found spring, the eggs hatch and the larva feeds inside
in Wisconsin. Populations of this beetle have the cranberry leaf. Towards the end of its
increased steadily in recent years in development, the larva cuts out an oval case
Massachusetts. from the upper and lower part of the leaf, sewing
the edges together with silk. These cases are
about 1/8 inch long. Oval holes, about 1/5 of the
total leaf surface, are left in the cranberry leaf.

123
These injured leaves tend to turn brown around
the hole and drop off the vine. Numerous mined
leaves may be collected in spring sweeps. There
is only one generation a year.

The Nepticulid moths emerge in August. The

larvae tunnel inside the cranberry leaf, feeding
along the perimeter and forming a ser pentine
mine. L eafminers are apparently resistant to a
number of insecticides registered for use in
cranberry.

124
 Nutrient Management
Carolyn DeMoranville

All plants require certain essential mineral cranberries and blueberries) that evolved on
elements in certain quantities to complete them have correspondingly low nutrient needs.
growth and development. These same nutrient So while cranberries require the same nutrients
elements are required by cranberry plants for the as other plants, they are unique in that the
production of vegetation (new leaves and stems), amounts required are much smaller than for
roots, and fruit (crop). Cranberry plants get most crop plants. Table 1 shows a co mparison
these nutrients from the soil, from water, or from of plant tissue nutrient concentrations for three
fertilizers added to the bog. Additionally, as a important minerals in cranberry and other crop
perennial crop plant, cranberries have the plants. N itrogen (N) and potassium (K)
capacity to store and reuse nutrients in old concentrations in cranberry and blueberry leaves
leaves, wood, and roots. are substantially lower than those in other fruit
and agronomic crops. Phosphorus (P) in
Commercially, cranberries are grown in either cranberry and blueberry tissue is also lower than
organic soils modified by surface application of that in many crops.
sand or in mineral soils. T he rooting zone
typically contains about 95% sand. Average Why cranberries need fertilizer. Each season
organic matter in the surface horizon of nutrients are removed from the bog during
Massachusetts cranberry soils is less than 3.5% harvest and detrashing (removal of fallen leaves
and silt and clay make up less than 3% of the from the bog surface). When the fruit is
soil. Therefore, cranberry soil has low cation harvested, the elements removed in the largest
exchange capacity, i.e., little ability to hold quantities are nitrogen, potassium, and calcium
positively charged nutrients such as ammonium- (Table 2). T he amount of nutrient removal
nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. increases with increasing crop load and is less
How then can cranberries grow in these soils? when crops are small. In addition, hybrid
cultivars tend to have larger leaves and thicker
The reason is that cranberries are adapted stems so that more nutrients are used to produce
through evolution for growth on a cid, sandy plant parts and more are removed with the fallen
soils. These soils have little nutrient content and leaves (the data in Table 2 are for a native
the plants in the family Ericaceae (e.g., cultivar, Early Black).
.

Table 1. S tandard concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in leaf tissue of several
fruit crops. Data for cranberries provided by C. DeMoranville, other fruit crop data (Chuntanaparb
and Cummings 1980); agronomic crop data from Ohio State University (Vitosh et al. 1995).

Crop Nitrogen (%) Phosphorus (%) Potassium (%)

Cranberry 0.9-1.1 0.10-0.20 0.40-0.75
Blueberry 1.0-1.5 0.10 0.60
Apple 2.0-2.5 0.15 3.0-3.5
Peach 2.5-3.0 0.20 3.0-3.5
Grape 2.5 0.30 2.0
Corn 2.9-3.5 0.3-0.5 1.19-2.50
Soybean 4.25-5.5 0.3-0.5 2.01-2.50
Wheat 2.59-4.00 0.21-0.5 1.51-3.00

125
It is to compensate for nutrient removal that producing cranberry bog. At planting, 20 lb/acre
cranberry growers add fertilizer to their beds. P and 20-30 lb/acre slow-release N are applied
Most fertilizer added to producing cranberry to the fresh sand to encourage plant rooting.
bogs contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and During the first season of a new planting, N is
potassium (N-P-K fertilizer). While P removal applied at the rate of 5-10 lbs per acre every two
is low, some P is included in the mixture to to three weeks until late in the summer,
maintain nutrient balance and because much of alternating N-only products with N-P-K
the P in cranberry bog soil is not available to the products with a 1:1:1 ratio. This regimen
plants at crucial growth stages. Table 3 stimulates robust growth and the production of
compares the N, P, and K recommendations for runners that spread quickly to cover the soil
cranberry production to those for other fruit and surface. R apid filling-in of cranberry plants
agronomic crops. I n general, cranberry discourages weed infestations. In the second
production requires less fertilizer than that of season, fertilizer use is reduced at around the
other crops. time of bloom to encourage the formation of
flower buds for the third season. Generally, an
However, during establishment of a new established-bog fertilizer schedule is used in the
planting or renovation, the recommended rates third and subsequent years.
for N and P are higher than those for a

Table 2. Nutrients (lb/acre) removed from Early Black cranberry beds (DeMoranville 1992a).

Removed in old Removed in

Nutrient leaves and stems 200 bbl/A crop Total

Nitrogen 13.6 10.0 23.6

Phosphorus 2.2 2.0 4.2
Potassium 3.4 17.4 20.8
Calcium 14.2 1.6 15.8
Magnesium 3.5 1.2 4.7

Table 3. Standard recommendations (lb/acre per year) for fertilizer nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium rates for several crops. D ata for cranberry from UMass Extension recommendations
(DeMoranville 2008), agronomic crop data from Ohio State University Extension recommendations
(Vitosh et al., 1995), tree fruit (Hanson 1996) and blueberry (Hanson and Hancock 1996)
recommendations from Michigan State University Extension.

Crop Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium

Cranberry 20-60 no more than 20 40-120
Blueberry 45-65 35-45 40-80
Apple 50-60 85-175* 125-250*
Peach 80 85-175* 125-250*
Corn 160-200 25-65** 87-120**
Wheat 75-110 45-80** 70-110**
*when required based on soil and tissue test, every 3-5 years.
**based on potential yield and soil tests.

126
Fertilizers used on cranberries. As noted photosynthesis, is regulated in part by the
above, the predominant fertilizers applied to availability of N.
cranberries are complete N-P-K materials with
varying ratios of the three elements. G rowers Adequate N is important in the production of
apply these fertilizers based on seasonal N cranberry fruit both directly and indirectly. N
requirements. D uring the season, 20-60 lbs N makes up a portion of the dry weight of each
per acre are applied depending on cultivar and fruit and adequate supply during fruit formation
weather conditions. N-P-K materials are chosen is required. H owever, much more of the fruit
so that no more than 20 lb P per acre is applied. dry weight is made up of various carbohydrates.
K application rates in N-P-K products are Early in the season, the presence of N promotes
generally 1-2 times the rate of N. Additional K the growth of the new uprights. I t is
may be applied as a su pplement. N , P, and K photosynthetic activity in the leafy tissue above
will be discussed further below. the developing fruit on a fruiting upright that is
the source for the carbohydrates in the fruit. If
While cranberries require many other mineral early-season N is lacking and the upright growth
elements, often these are in sufficient supply in is stunted, the plants will lack the ability to
the soil to satisfy the plant needs. When testing support a large crop. Further, lack of N in the
shows that these other elements are lacking in early season can lead to uprights that are pale
the plants or in the soil, they are applied as greenish-yellow, indicating a lack of
needed. Calcium is applied as gypsum (calcium chlorophyll. This too will limit photosynthesis.
sulfate) since the addition of lime can adversely
affect the soil pH. Mag nesium is added as Each season N is removed from the bog in the
Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) or in crop and in fallen leaves. T o compensate for
combination with K (SulPoMag). S ulfur is not this loss cranberry plants get N from the soil,
used as a fertilizer in cranberry production but from water (very little), or from fertilizers added
may be used to lower soil pH if necessary. to the bog. The amount of N that must be added
as fertilizer depends on how much N is supplied
Minor elements such as copper, zinc, iron, and by the soil (soil organic matter and weather
manganese are very available in acid soils. For dependent), cultivar requirements, and general
this reason, cranberries seldom suffer minor status (length, color) of the cranberry plants.
element deficiencies, nor do they require minor
element fertilizers in general. One exception is Soil N. Approximately 95-99% of available soil
the use of minor element supplements in N comes from the decomposition of soil organic
fertilizer blends during the first season of a matter. Cranberries are grown in either organic
newly planted mineral soil bog. Another soils modified by surface application of sand or
exception is the use of calcium-boron in mineral soils. Average organic matter in the
supplements at bloom. For beds with poor yield root zone of Massachusetts cranberry soils, and
histories, such calcium-boron supplements may therefore available for plant use, is less than
increase fruit set. 3.5%.

Nitrogen release from the soil organic matter

NITROGEN depends on temperature and soil moisture status.
The release process, known as mineralization,
The single most important nutrient element in by which ammonium-N is released from soil
cranberry production is nitrogen (N). N is organic matter depends on bacterial activity in
required by cranberry plants for the production the soil. W hen the soil is waterlogged, the
of vegetation (new leaves and stems), roots, and bacteria cannot get enough air to function well.
fruit (crop). As a critical constituent of protein, As with many biological reactions,
N is a controlling element in the plant's mineralization is also temperature dependent,
nutrition. The production of the protein, increasing as the soil temperature increases.
chlorophyll, the green pigment essential to

127
Davenport and DeMoranville (2004) studied corresponds to the period from roughneck stage
mineralization in common cranberry soils (Fig. through bloom. D uring spells of hot weather,
1). The predominant factors that determined N when soil temperatures exceed 70°F and air
release due to mineralization were organic temperatures exceed 85°F, soil nitrogen release
matter content of the soil and soil temperature. increases and crop development slows, so
Sandy soils (newer plantings) released less N planned fertilizer nitrogen applications can be
compared to soils from older beds with layers of reduced, delayed, or eliminated.
sand and organic matter. In the early spring as
the soil dried after the winter flood, bacterial
activity increased and there was a ‘flush’ of N
release in the soil despite cool temperatures (50-
55ºF). Mineralization rates were similar at
temperatures from 55-70ºF. The rate increased
dramatically when soil temperature rose to 75ºF.
The ammonium-N released in mineralization is
readily used by the cranberry plants.

5.0
Total N released (lb/acre per day)

4.5
4.0 Fig. 2. Illustration of the nitrogen cycle.
3.5 Courtesy www.physicalgeography.net.
3.0
2.5
2.0
However, once mineralization occurs, the
resulting ammonium-N may be converted to
1.5
1.0
0.5
nitrate-N in a second, bacteria-mediated
0.0 reaction, nitrification. The bacteria that mediate
55 60 65 70 75 nitrification are sensitive to soil pH. In common
Soil temperature ºF
cranberry soil with pH 3-4.5, activity of these
bacteria was minimal. However, the same soils
Fig. 1. Nitrogen released from typical adjusted to pH 6.5 released large amounts of
Massachusetts cranberry soil at various soil nitrate-N and had high populations of nitrifying
temperatures (Davenport and DeMoranville bacteria (Davenport and DeMoranville 2004).
2004). Nitrate-N is not a good source of N for
cranberries (see below) and readily leaches in
the soil.
Based on these data, for typical cranberry beds,
applications of N should not be necessary early Soil pH and organic matter should be tested at
in the spring. F rom flood removal until soil least once every three to five years (more often
temperatures exceed 55°F, adequate N should be if attempting to modify pH). The biological
available through biological processes. Nitrogen conversion of cranberry-useable ammonium-N
is slowly released from the soil early in the to less-desirable nitrate-N with increasing pH is
spring when the cranberry plants are dormant most pronounced in bogs with high organic
(and cannot use nitrogen). This builds up in the matter soil. Soil pH on cranberry beds with soil
soil leading to a flush of ammonium availability organic matter content of 0-5% should be
early in the spring when the plants are breaking between pH 4.0 and 5.0, while soils with organic
dormancy. As soil temperatures increase from matter content greater than 5% should have a pH
55°F to 70°F, release of nitrogen from soil of 4.5 or less.
organic matter is only moderate. F ertilizer
applications are then beneficial. This

128
N form. Unlike most horticultural crops, Further, cranberries have very low activity of the
cranberries appear to preferentially use enzyme (nitrate reductase) that converts nitrate
ammonium-N (Greidanus et al. 1972; Smith into metabolically usable ammonium inside the
1994). Wh ile all plants ultimately require plant (Greidanus et al. 1972). R ecently,
ammonium, most take up N in the nitrate form cranberry plants in culture inoculated with
and then convert it to ammonium once it has ericoid mycorrhizae did show the ability to take
been transported to the leaves. I n solution up and transport nitrate-N (Kosola et al. 2007).
culture, cranberries can take up s ome nitrate-N, These specialized mycorrhizal fungi colonize
but uptake was only substantial in the presence cranberry roots in the field and when present,
of ammonium (Rosen et al. 1990; Smith 1994). may allow uptake and utilization of nitrate.

Summary of N Fertilizer Recommendations

Nitrogen rates/form:
• Small-fruited cultivars such as Early Black and Howes require the addition of 20-30 lbs N per
acre per season.
• Large-fruited cultivars such as Stevens may require more N, up to 60 lbs N per acre per season.
Rates should be adjusted according to soil type and temperature. Rates higher than 40 lbs per acre
should be used with caution as they may lead to vine overgrowth and reduction in fruit quality.
• Cranberries use ammonium-N efficiently. Ammonium-N is recommended for that reason and to
limit concerns regarding nitrate leaching. In addition to standard soluble granular ammonium
fertilizers, organic fertilizers, urea, and many slow release fertilizers can be used to provide
ammonium-N.

Temperature/timing:
• Applications of N should not be necessary early in the spring. F rom flood removal until soil
temperatures exceed 55ºF, adequate N should be available through biological processes.
• At soil temperatures from 55ºF to 70ºF, release of N from soil organic matter is only moderate.
Fertilizer applications should be beneficial.
• Seasonal N application rate should be divided into three to four applications corresponding to the
periods of peak demand: 20-25% at roughneck stage (½ to 1 inch new growth from the terminal bud),
30-35% at bloom, 30-35% at fruit set (about 2-3 weeks after bloom), and ~20% at bud
development/fruit sizing (early August). S plit timing allows for in-season rate adjustment as
conditions warrant.
• During spells of hot weather, when soil temperatures exceed 70ºF and air temperatures exceed
85ºF, soil N release increases and crop development slows, so planned fertilizer N applications
should be reduced, delayed, or eliminated.

Soil type and pH:

• Sandy beds have less potential for natural N release. As organic matter in the soil increases, less
fertilizer N should be used.
• As soil pH rises, biological conversion of ammonium to less-desirable nitrate increases. Soil pH
on cranberry beds with soil organic matter content of 0-5% should be between pH 4.0 and 5.0, while
soils with organic matter content greater than 5% should have a pH of 4.5 or less.

129
However, based on the predominant evidence 100%
that cranberries can use ammonium-N quite 90%

Percent of aboveground biomass

effectively and since nitrate-N can leach and 80%

pose environmental hazards, ammonium is the 70%

recommended form of N for cranberry 60%

Fruit

production. Ammonium is readily taken up by

50% New Shoots
40% Old Shoots
the plants (10 times greater uptake compared to 30%
nitrate in solution culture), is only slowly 20%

converted to nitrate in acid soils, and is lower in 10%

leachability compared to nitrate. Urea, organic 0%

fertilizers, and many slow release fertilizers

May July September

deliver N as ammonium during their breakdown.

An additional benefit of ammonium-N is that as Fig. 3. Seasonal distribution of above-ground
it is taken up by the cranberry plant, the plant biomass in cranberry plants (DeMoranville
1992a).
releases acid equivalents to the soil, helping to
maintain the cranberry-preferred low pH.
Fruit filling and floral bud initiation occur
In the soil solution of cranberry beds, N
during the same time period (during the
predominantly occurs in the dissolved organic
summer) and so may represent a period of
form. A mmonium-N is the next most common
competition among plant parts for resources.
form, followed by nitrate-N (Kosola et al. 2007;
Cranberry fruit on an upright are in competition
Stackpoole 2008). Other research (Stribley and
for resources (Birrenkott and Stang 1990).
Read 1974) showed that cranberries colonized
When numbers of berries on a n upright was
by ericoid mycorrhizae could absorb and utilize
high, buds produced tended to be small (Patten
organic N forms from the soil. Therefore, the
and Wang 1994). W hile it is likely that
dissolved organic pool of N is cranberry soil
competition for carbohydrates is mainly
may also be a source for cranberry N nutrition
responsible for these observations, competition
even in the absence of mineralization to
for mineral elements may also play a part. It is
ammonium-N.
known that nutrients are drawn from source
areas (roots and storage tissues) to ‘sinks’,
Fertilizer N. Wh ile soil N is an important
rapidly growing tissues and plant parts with high
resource to the cranberry, it is not present in
levels of plant growth regulators (hormones)
sufficient quantity, particularly if the bog soil is
such as fruit.
very sandy, to meet the demands of plant growth
and fruit formation during the most active
Fertilizer N rate and timing. The average
portion of the growing season.
recommended seasonal rate of N for producing
cranberry beds in Massachusetts varies from 10-
Periods of peak nutrient demand. Nutrient
60 lb per acre depending on plant vigor and
demand tends to be driven by production of
variety. High-vigor beds and beds with a deep
plant biomass. In cranberry, this would
organic base require the least nitrogen; beds with
correspond to extension of new growth in the
low vigor require more nitrogen; and beds
spring (mid-May to mid-June), fruit formation
planted to robust hybrid cultivars, such as
and filling (July - September), initiation of floral
Stevens, have the highest nitrogen requirements.
buds (July and August), and root turnover. Root
The N rate within the recommended range
production occurs after the first flush of new
should be chosen based on bog history of
vegetative growth and late in August after
response. A good starting N rate for Early Black
vegetative growth has ceased for the season.
and Howes is 25 lb per acre; for Ben Lear,
Seasonal patterns of above-ground biomass
Stevens, and other hybrid cultivars, start with
distribution in cranberries are shown in Fig. 3.
30-40 lb per acre. Large-fruited cultivars such
as Stevens may require up to 60 lbs N per acre

130
per season. R ates higher than 40 lbs per acre than N rate in the current season. F urther,
should be used with caution, however, as they timing of N application may be even more
may lead to vine overgrowth and reduction in important than rate.
fruit quality.
Best yield results were obtained in research plots
N rates have been studied in several growing when seasonal N application rate was divided
areas and on various cultivars. A common result into four applications corresponding to the
in these studies was the observation that no periods of peak demand: 20-25% at roughneck
treatment effect is apparent in the first year of stage (½ to 1 inch new growth from the terminal
the study. T hat is, plots receiving no fertilizer bud), 30-35% at bloom, 30-35% at fruit set
had similar yield to any of the N rate plots. This (about 2-3 weeks after bloom), and ~20% at bud
is evidence for the theory that fertilizer applied development/fruit sizing (early August). S plit
this season has little effect on this season’s crop timing allows for in-season rate adjustment as
but rather is important for next year. B y the conditions warrant. A dditional N fertilizer
third year of applications, however, separation should be added if the cranberry plants show
among treatments is significant and certain signs of N deficiency - poor growth, loss of leaf
trends are apparent. A lmost universally, plots greenness, and/or low nitrogen content in the
that receive no N for three years have poor yield. leaf tissue.
Regarding yield for the various N rates, two
patterns were seen. E ither yield increased to a Fertilizer N uptake. A study was undertaken to
maximum level and then declined with further discover how quickly cranberries in the field
increase in applied N or yield increased with would take up labeled ammonium fertilizer
each increase in N up to the highest rate in the (Roper et al. 2004b). Ammonium sulfate
study. T he first pattern was the most common. labeled with 15N was applied in field locations in
The second pattern was seen with Stevens in Oregon, Massachusetts, New Jersey and
Oregon when the highest rate in the study was Wisconsin. I n all cases, 15N was detectable in
60 lb/A (Hart et al. 1994). Ho wever, in a the plants by 24 hour s following application.
Massachusetts study with rates up to 80 lb/A, Rate of uptake was temperature dependent, with
yield decline in Stevens was seen at both the 60 more rapid uptake at the warmer sites. More N
and 80 lb/acre rates. I n a st udy of several was taken up in Wisconsin and New Jersey in
cultivars in New Jersey, applications of high N the first 7 days than was taken up in
rates promoted vegetative growth at the expense Massachusetts after 14 days or Oregon after 21
of yield (Davenport and Vorsa 1999). days. Examination of weather records suggested
that the differences were likely due to
While high rates of N were generally not temperature. The importance of soil and root
associated with high yield, they were associated temperature on rate of uptake was confirmed in
with high levels of N in the leaf tissue. T his greenhouse studies. The optimum root zone
may explain why as N rate increases, vegetative temperature for N uptake by cranberry vines was
growth increases at the expense of yield. Excess 65º to 75ºF.
vegetative growth may increase susceptibility to
disease, spring frost, or insect feeding. High N This research suggests that ammonium fertilizers
rates may also lead to poor fruit quality and applied by growers and irrigated into the soil
delay color development in the fruit. H igh N (solubilized) can be expected to be in green
rates can have adverse carry-over effects in tissue and available for plant growth within a
following years as s tored excess N is day following application.
remobilized.

Consistency in management is important for PHOSPHORUS

achieving predictable yields. R esearch has
shown that overall N rate in the year before a Phosphorus (P) plays many roles in plant
crop may be a more important predictor of yield metabolism. P is involved in energy transfer as

131
part of the ATP (the molecular energy currency Once the soil reached seasonal dryness (late
within living cells) molecule. P is a primary spring), P was only released if a certain
constituent of the genetic material of plants and threshold amount was present in the soil,
animals (DNA). P plays a regulatory role in indicating the need for fertilizer applications
photosynthesis and starch synthesis, active under those conditions. T his pattern was even
transport of materials across membranes, root more pronounced in highly organic (peat) soil.
growth and function, and hormonal balance.
This last is critical to floral induction. Common soil tests for P indicate high P
availability in cranberry soil under conditions
While only modest amounts of P are removed where P has been shown to remain bound. This
from cranberry beds in fallen leaves and fruit is related to soil iron. P bound t o soil iron is
(Table 2), it is essential that soil P be available generally not available to the cranberry plants.
to the cranberry plants to support seasonal However, the chemicals used in standard soil
growth and flowering. C ommon characteristics tests strip the P from the iron giving a falsely
of cranberry bog soil affect P availability. high report of plant available P. I f soil iron
exceeds 200 ppm , the soil test P becomes
Phosphorus soil chemistry. Cranberry soils virtually meaningless.
are high in iron and have low pH. This
chemistry leads to conditions where P is tightly Fertilizer P. Despite the presence of bound P in
bound in the soil and is to a large extent the soil, research has shown that cranberry yield
unavailable to the cranberry plants (Davenport et increases in response to the addition of P
al. 1997). C ranberry plants with tissue P at or fertilizer (Greidanus and Dana 1972;
below the critical level (0.1%) are often found DeMoranville and Davenport 1997). H owever,
growing on soils with high P test values. When as seen in Fig. 4, the response is not linear.
fertilizer is applied to these soils, the P in the While yield was greater with the addition of 20
fertilizer dissolves into the soil water and lb P per acre per season (compared to no P ),
quickly becomes bound to iron; only a sm all higher rates did not significantly improve the
percentage of the P remains dissolved and response above that with the 20 lb rate.
available for plant use. Of the bound P, some
portion may later be released and available for Further research with a b roader P rate range in
uptake by the plants depending on the aerobic Wisconsin and Massachusetts has confirmed that
status of the soil (i.e., how saturated it is). there is no experimental evidence for a cranberry
yield response to P rates above 20 lb acre and in
Phosphorus uptake and release in cranberry soils many cases, good yield response was found with
of varying organic matter content was even lower rates (DeMoranville et al. 2008;
investigated under flooded (anaerobic), dry Roper 2008). The addition of more than 20 lb P
(aerobic), and transitional conditions (Davenport per acre in a season is only justified if tissue P is
et al., 1997). Sandy soils readily released P that <0.1% or during the establishment of new or
had been previously applied and bound to the renovated plantings.
soil. H owever, the total P holding (and
releasing) capacity of these soils was poor, The use of 20 lb P per acre at the time of
indicating a need for low rate applications at planting increased the percent of coverage by
frequent intervals. Uptake and release in sandy cranberry plants at the end of the first season
soils was not dependent on flooding cycles compared to those receiving no P or higher P
(aerobic status). rates. The beds also received 31 lb per acre slow
release N at the time of planting. On the basis of
However, the results were quite different for this research, 20 lb P per acre (100 lb per acre
peat and layered (sanded cranberry) soils. In the triple super phosphate) is recommended at
layered soil, P was released from the bound state planting for vine establishment. Additional P is
at the highest rate as the soil moved from the then applied during that first season in N-P-K
flooded to the seasonal dry state (field capacity). fertilizers.

132
 200
P forms and rates. Most Massachusetts
180 cranberry growers add inorganic phosphate to
160 the soil in N-P-K fertilizer or as triple
* superphosphate. T he P in the N-P-K fertilizers
Yield (bbl per acre)

140
120 is generally derived from ammonium
100 polyphosphate (used in ammoniated fertilizers),
80
monoammonium phosphate (MAP) or
60
diammonium phosphate (DAP). F ertilizers
40
20
containing MAP are an excellent choice for
0
cranberry production as the fertilizer particles
0 20 40 60 form an acid zone in the soil, helping to
P rate (lb per acre) maintain the low pH preferred for cranberry
production. Slow release P forms are available.
Fig. 4. Response of cranberry to added They perform similarly to soluble granular
phosphorus fertilizer. Fertilizer was split- forms -- at the same rate of applied P, yield and
applied in 4 a pplications. S tar indicates tissue P were similar with either fertilizer type
significant difference from other treatments (DeMoranville and Davenport 1997; Roper
(p<0.05) (DeMoranville and Davenport 1997). 2008).

Since in producing cranberry beds, P is added in

N-P-K materials and the material rate is selected
P Interaction with Cranberry Soil Type based on N requirement, the N:P ratio in the
fertilizer is critical if no m ore than 20 lb P per
Sandy soils. P readily attaches to the soil acre is to be applied. F or beds with sufficient
and is completely released for plant use tissue P (0.1-0.2%), the recommended ratio of
throughout the growing season. H owever, N:P is no greater than 1:2 with 1:1 or 1:<1
the total holding capacity of these soils is preferred if high N rates are required. An
low, indicating the need for low rate, example of a 1 :<1 material used on cranberries
frequent P applications during the growing is 18-8-18. One hundred pounds of this fertilizer
season. However, in the absence of tissue would supply 18 lb N, 3.5 lb P, and 15 lb K. An
deficiency, do not exceed 20 lb per acre per example of a 1:1 material is 13-13-13. One
season. hundred pounds of this fertilizer would supply
13 lb N, 5.7 lb P, and 10.8 lb K. Note that due
Layered (sanded peat) soils. P is available to fertilizer conventions, the percentages in the
under flooding conditions and during the bag analysis are not the actual percentages of P
transition from wet to dry soil conditions and K. Actual P and K are calculated by
(early spring). Fertilizer additions should be multiplying the second number by 0.44 a nd the
delayed until seasonal dryness at which time third number by 0.83, respectively.
moderate rates are suitable. However, in the
absence of tissue deficiency, do not exceed P timing. P is generally applied with N and
20 lb per acre per season. therefore is split-applied in up to four
applications at roughneck stage (½ to 1 inch new
Peat soils. P is somewhat available under growth from the terminal bud), bloom, fruit set
flooding conditions only. O nce the soil (about 2-3 weeks after bloom), and bud
begins to dry, additions of P may be development/fruit sizing (early August). This
beneficial. However, this soil type showed corresponds to the period of seasonal soil
even stronger tendency to bind small dryness when existing soil P is tightly bound to
additions of P compared to layered soil. soil iron and poorly available for plant uptake
(see above). If slow release P materials are
used, they may be applied in a single application
early in the season (roughneck stage). Prior to

133
roughneck stage, there is no ne ed for P Plots were set up i n a grid pattern so that rows
applications as bound P is released from the soil received various K rates and forms while
as it transitions from saturation to seasonal columns received high or moderate N rates. The
dryness in the early spring. results showed that K at 100 or 200 lb per acre
gave higher yield than that in the zero K rows.
After the first year, yield declined in the high N
POTASSIUM columns and fruit rot increased. Further,
increasing K rates with either source did NOT
Potassium (K) is the only major element with no overcome the deleterious effects of high N.
structural role in the plant. H owever, K is Growth was not ‘shut down’ but neither was any
involved in the movement of sugars and starch damage observed with the chloride (Cl) form at
in the plant and may play a role in resistance to these rates.
disease, drought, and cold temperatures. K also
has a major role in preserving plant turgor To further investigate the possibility of Cl
(water relations) and in osmoregulation toxicity in cranberry plants, a cooperative
(regulating water movement across plant project was initiated by researchers at UMass,
membranes). C ranberries have a m uch higher University of Wisconsin and Washington State
percent of K in the fruit and seeds than in the University with funding from the Mass Highway
leaf tissue. As a result, seasonal removal of K in Department. I n a greenhouse study in sand
crop and fallen leaves is about equal to the culture, cranberries exposed to 250 ppm Cl in
removal of N. irrigation water showed leaf reddening with Cl
provided as NaCl or KCl. A t lower
Fertilizer K. Due to its role in plant turgor concentrations, runner production was
(hydration of the tissues, preventing wilting), K stimulated and at 250 ppm as KCl, many plants
fertilizer is added to cranberry beds when vines died. Fig. 5 shows the Cl concentration in plant
are brittle and dry, most often in the spring. tissue after several months of exposure to
Otherwise, K is generally added in the N-P-K contaminated irrigation. Not surprisingly, the Cl
fertilizer applied to satisfy N needs. C ommon in the shoots rose as the concentration of Cl in
cranberry fertilizers supply K as a 1:1 ratio with the irrigation water was increased from 50 t o
N. Seasonal rates of K applied to cranberry beds 250 ppm (DeMoranville, unpublished data).
are in the range of 40-120 lb per acre. Field plot
research did not show any measurable benefit to
the addition of higher K rates (Roper 2008). 0.7
0.6 Shoot Cl
percent Cl in tissue

K form -- sulfate vs. chloride. Fertilizer K is 0.5 Root Cl

most commonly available as sulfate or chloride. 0.4

A body of evidence exists that indicates

0.3
0.2
cranberries are sensitive to chloride (Davenport 0.1
et al. 2001; Roper et al. 2001; DeMoranville and 0
Roper 2004). Salt injury to cranberry vines has Control 50
ppm
100
ppm
250
ppm
100
ppm
250
ppm
100
ppm
25
ppm
been observed following east coast hurricanes NaCl NaCl NaCl KCl KCl NaSO NaSO

and in areas that receive highway treatment salt and concentration (mg/L as Cl)

overspray in the winter. I n both instances, the

salt in question is sodium chloride (NaCl). Fig. 5. Chloride concentration in cranberry
Growers have also reported that they can ‘shut plants exposed to irrigation water contaminated
down’ cranberry growth with high rates of with salts. (DeMoranville, unpublished data).
potassium chloride (0-0-60).

In Massachusetts, the interaction of K form However, it was notable that when 250 ppm Cl
(chloride or sulfate, 0-0-50) and rate with N rate was provided as KCl, more Cl accumulated in
was studied (DeMoranville, unpublished data). the shoots than when that same amount of Cl

134
was provided as NaCl. This is a good indication vegetation (small berries), shading of fruit, poor
that KCl (0-0-60) at high rates may not be fruit color, increased fruit rot, and inability of
suitable for cranberry production. bees to reach pollination sites.

Soil and tissue tests. Soil and tissue tests are

FERTILIZER USE tools that a cranberry grower can use for several
purposes. T hese include: 1) diagnosing
This section covers how growers decide on deficiencies of mineral elements; 2) monitoring
fertilizer rates and timing, how fertilizer is soil pH; and 3) aiding in the decision-making
applied, and the interaction of fertilizers and process for choosing fertilizer (tissue tests).
water quality. However, several factors preclude the use of the
test results alone as the basis for a cranberry
Fertilizer use decisions. As noted above, most fertilizer ‘prescription’:
cranberry fertilizer rate decisions are based on N
requirements. Aside from taking varietal • standard soil tests poorly predict the
differences into account, decisions regarding availability of nutrients and poorly correlate
fertilizer N rate are based in part on length and with yield in cranberry;
density of uprights. O ther factors that are
• as a perennial plant, cranberries store nutrients
considered include bog history (previous crops
from the previous season(s) making it
and response to fertilizer), results of soil and
impossible to base fertilizer choices only on soil
tissue tests, and weather conditions. Records of
content and yield potential;
previous crops and response to fertilizer along
with the results of soil and tissue tests are used • there is virtually no variability in soil test N
as guidelines in fertilizer decisions. values from bog to bog;
• tissue test N concentration may vary
Upright length and density. By mid-June, the depending on length of upright (N concentration
minimum total growth on ne w cranberry in the tissue does not always correlate well with
uprights should be 2.25 i nches for Early Black added N);
and Howes, and 2.5 inches for Ben Lear and
Stevens. Flowering uprights should have 1.5 to • nutrient availability changes with soil pH and
2 inches of leafy length above the flowers and soil pH is not uniform from bog to bog;
fruit. The presence of adequate foliage (length) • common soil test methods for P do not give
by mid-June is significantly correlated with results that correlate well with cranberry yields
yield later that season. S mall, stunted uprights due to very acid soils in cranberry production;
early in the season are associated with poor standard P tests are of no value if soil iron is
crops. The average upright density for a above 200 ppm.
productive bog should be about 600 uprights/sq.
ft. for Early Black and 400 uprights/sq. ft. for
Howes, Ben Lear, and Stevens. Ideally, 200 or With these warnings in mind, tissue and soil
more of these uprights should be the flowering analyses can be beneficial as a long-term record
type. An adequate stand of vegetative uprights of changes in a b og. S oil and tissue tests are
is also important, as about 80% of these will particularly useful when compared to one
flower next year. Even and adequate vine cover another; a soil test alone is virtually useless in
is the key to good production: 200 flowering determining a fertilizer recommendation for
uprights/sq. ft., each producing an average of 1 cranberry. T issue tests are more useful for
berry, will give a crop of 200-300 bbl per acre. setting target fertilizer ranges. Tissue testing for
%N is used to determine nutrient status of
A bog with thin vine cover, pale leaves, or cranberry plants. The standard value for all
stunted vines may not be getting enough N. cultivars in August (recommended testing time)
However, vines that are too long and too dense is 0.9-1.1%, with up to 1.3% acceptable for
are related to diversion of nutritional assets to high-yielding hybrids. E arlier in the season,

135
higher values (up to 1.5%) are normal. A s Fertilizer application timing. The timing of N
growth dilutes the nitrogen in the plants, N and P applications is an important factor
declines to approximate 1%. Values below affecting the potential for fertilizer loss to the
normal may indicate the need for added N environment. The greater the time between
fertilizer. application and plant uptake, the greater the
chance for loss to ground or surface water. It is
best to time fertilizer applications based on t he
Nutrition Decision Making in Cranberry stage of plant growth. A pplications should be
Production delayed when spring temperatures are cold.
Cranberry plants respond to nutritional support
As we have seen, many factors, including during initial leaf expansion in the spring, during
temperature, moisture, pH, and soil type can bloom, during fruit set, and during bud
play a part in the availability of nutrients development for the following season. F all
and the ability of the plant to acquire them. application of N should be minimized.
How then can one decide what to supply to
cranberries in the form of fertilizer? The Aside from water, the next most important
following tips are provided for cranberry constituents of the cranberry fruit are
growers: carbohydrates (acids and sugars) that the plants
1. Observe growth and flowering. Adjust make in the green leaves and then transfer to the
fertilizer based on the appearance of the fruit. P lants that are starved for mineral
plants and the potential for cropping. P ay nutrients in the spring will not make enough new
particular attention to upright length and green leaf surface to produce the carbohydrates
growth above the fruit. necessary to support a large crop. Adding large
amounts of fertilizer to stunted plants will not
2. Healthy cranberry plants with adequate N
set a large crop of fruit. By that time, fertilizer
are deep, bright green. Fading to yellow is
is no longer the limiting factor if nutrition was
an indication the N may be insufficient.
inadequate earlier. Therefore, it is essential to
3. Test the soil to determine the organic apply fertilizer in the spring if needed based on
matter content. T his will supply plant analyses (from the previous summer), size
information regarding the potential for of previous crop, and observations of early
mineralization. Soil pH information can be growth.
gathered at the same time. S oil testing
every 3-5 years should be sufficient. However, cranberry plants have little ability to
take up nut rients when the soil is cold (>55ºF).
4. Adjust spring fertilizer applications based
Fertilizers applied too early in the spring may
on soil temperature. A pply only after soil
wash out of the root zone before the soil warms
has warmed and decrease N applications if
enough for uptake into the plants.
spring has been warm and dry.
5. Do not apply P to wet soils; P is being Nutrient Recycling. In perennial crops such a
released under these conditions. Do not cranberry, nutrients can be stored in roots and
apply more than 20 l b P per acre each mature stems. Further, floral buds are formed in
season. the year prior to the crop. These factors make it
likely that nutrients acquired in a g iven season
6. Adjust N rate based on cultivar and crop
may be more important in determining crop for
potential. Cultivars that crop heavily
the following season than for determining
generally require more N compared to
current season crop. D avenport and
native selections.
DeMoranville (unpublished) conducted a survey
7. Finally, keep good records of your of 30 cranberry plantings in Massachusetts
management and observations, look for including the collection of grower records of N
patterns, and learn how each bed responds applications and yield. Regression and
to the addition of fertilizer. correlation analyses of surveyed variables

136
showed that N applied in the year prior to the Inorganic slow-release materials depend on their
crop was an important determinant of yield, low solubility to prevent being washed down
while N application in the crop year was of little below the root zone. This is generally achieved
significance. by a sl owly dissolving coating or a ch emical
structure that requires breakdown by soil
When labeled N was applied to cranberries in bacteria (analogous to the chemical process by
Oregon (Hart et al. 1994) prior to fruit set, at which the N in the organic matter becomes
least one half of the label was found in old stems available to the plants).
and roots. N utrients that are incorporated into
the fruit are lost when the crop is harvested and Liquid or foliar fertilizers are also used when a
removed from the system but the nutrients in the quick response (generally to correct problems) is
shoots and roots can be available for growth the desired. T hese are low-analysis materials
following season. One study (Smith 1994) designed to be taken up quickly by the plants.
showed that one third of 15N taken into the plant When used at the recommended rates, they have
from soil applications moved into new growth little potential for movement into water supplies.
and fruit in the year of application. The Due to nonuniform application with irrigation
following year, 70% of the label was in mature systems, only low rates of fertilizer are applied
tissue but 30% had been remobilized into that by this method. O therwise, the plant stand
season’s new leaves and fruit. T his illustrates grows unevenly, leading to difficulties in
the ability of cranberry plants to both store harvesting and other management tasks.
nutrients and to remobilize them for growth and
fruiting. For this reason, early spring Interaction with water management.
applications of fertilizer are adjusted based on Moisture and aeration in the soil can determine
potential carryover (if the previous crop was nutrient availability. P lants take up nut rients
small, for example). dissolved in the soil water. If soil is too dry,
minerals cannot dissolve and move to the roots
Application methods. Fertilizer is applied to and uptake cannot take place. C onversely, if
cranberry beds using ground rigs (spreaders and soil is waterlogged, the oxygen the plant needs
seeders), helicopters (aerial application), and the for root respiration to drive active uptake will be
sprinkler system (fertigation). F ertilizer is limited.
applied in split doses if water-soluble materials
are used. As previously mentioned, the dose for The change in P availability during flooding
the total season is split over 3-4 applications. cycles on cranberry soils is discussed above.
This lessens the potential for leaching of the Hydric status of the soil determines availability
material below the root zone. For a soil-applied of iron and manganese. I n flooded soils,
fertilizer to be used by the plants, it must be availability of these elements is high enough to
taken up by the roots. Cranberries are shallow- present a d anger of toxicity in species not
rooted. T his, combined with the limited ability adapted to flooded conditions. In fact, the
of cranberry soils to hold nutrients, makes split ability of cranberries to tolerate high iron and
applications essential. O verloading of soluble manganese is indicative of their status as
materials would be unsound economically as wetland species. H igh tissue test manganese
well as ecologically. levels may indicate poor drainage.

As an alternative to split applications of soluble Proper soil drainage improves fertilizer

materials, some growers use fish fertilizer efficiency so that less fertilizer is required. Soil
(organic nitrogen) or inorganic slow-release moisture should be monitored and at minimum
materials. Fish fertilizer remains available over checked twice a week. Soil should be moist but
an extended period due to the fact that the not saturated in the root zone.
material adheres to soil particles where the
organic nitrogen can be slowly released and Environmental considerations. Fertilizer N
become available to the cranberry plants. and P can be environmental pollutants. N is of

137
particular concern in estuarine waters, while P is more leachable nitrate form and P is bound to
primarily associated with degradation of water iron in acid conditions. While leaching is of
quality in inland, freshwater systems. When minimal concern in cranberry fertilizer
excess P is provided in such systems, algal management, the potential for movement of N
blooms (eutrophication) can result. As the algal and P in surface water should be taken into
population peaks and the algae die, oxygen in account in management decisions.
the water is depleted, often resulting in fish kills.
Cranberries are grown in wetland soils, either
Downward leaching of nutrients is minimized by natural wetlands converted to cranberry
the layered structure of cranberry bog soil. production or manufactured cranberry wetlands
Layers of sand are added to the beds every 2-5 (Johnson 1985; Turenne 2002). While wetlands
years leading to alternating sandy and organic are generally perceived to improve water
layers. The organic layers are comprised of quality, primarily due to their ability to retain
decaying roots and leaves. Nutrient leaching is sediments, their capacity to retain nutrients may
also minimized in peat based soils by trapping in change over time and with continued loading
the high organic matter content of the subsoil. may actually reverse so that they become
Further, the low pH of bog soils limits the nutrient exporters (Peverly 1982; Richardson
conversion of ammonium N (the form 1985; Johnston 1991).
recommended for cranberry fertilization) to the

Fertilizer Best Management Practices for Cranberry

• Apply N only when the plant can use it (active growth and fruit production). Use ammonium N.
• Apply seasonal fertilizer in split applications. Adjust rates based on observations of growth and
plant appearance.
• Reduce fertilizer applications in response to insect infestations that impact potential crop, frost
damage, pruning or sanding, and following the use of late water.
• Use tissue testing as a tool to help determine required fertilizer rates. Use soil testing to monitor
soil pH and soil organic matter.
• Avoid N applications if the soil is cold (<55ºF) and limit applications if soil temperature is 75ºF or
greater.
• Avoid excessive N application to prevent excess vegetative growth and poor cropping but do not
starve the plants of N early in the season as this will lead to poor growth and reduced ability to size
and retain fruit.
• Limit P applications to no more than 20 lb per acre per season, use less if tissue tests are well above
the critical level of 0.1%.
• Do not apply P to saturated soil.
• Monitor soil moisture – soil in the root zone should be moist but not saturated.
• Minimize water in drainage ditches during fertilizer applications.
• Limit flow from beds during the growing season – use tailwater recovery if possible.
• Hold harvest floods long enough for settling (~3 days) then discharge slowly to minimize
particulate discharge. C omplete discharge before Day 10 t o avoid flushing of P from the soil as
oxygen depletes.

138
Since managed cranberry wetlands are receiving aluminum change chemical state and no longer
fertilizer on a r egular basis, there is a st rong strongly bind P. It is likely that the spikes of P
possibility that they may act as nutrient associated with flood release found in the Howes
exporters. I n laboratory studies, saturated and Teal study (Howes and Teal 1995) were
wetland soils discharged N and P to nutrient- related to change in aerobic state of the
poor surface water and only acted as nutrient cranberry soils during the flooded intervals.
sinks when the water source had high
concentrations of N and P (Phillips 2001). The capacity for P release from bog soils during
flooding was studied further in the laboratory
A great deal of literature exists regarding the using soil cores collected from natural cranberry
movement and release of nutrients, including N bogs and commercial beds that received P
and P, in natural wetland systems, both estuarine fertilizers (DeMoranville et al. 2008). In
and fresh water (Johnston 1991; Howes et al. flooded natural bog soil, uptake of P was
1996). A study in Massachusetts, which observed during aerobic conditions as P was
included careful mass balance calculations, bound to iron and aluminum in the soil. As the
documented N and P release from established oxygen in the flood was depleted and the soil
cranberry beds to Buzzards Bay (Howes and became anaerobic, P was released into the
Teal 1995). In that study, N losses were similar overlying water. The anaerobic P release likely
to those in surface water-dominated vegetated resulted primarily from the dissolution of the
wetlands. P output was shown to be minimal iron and aluminum phosphates previously
with the exception of certain seasonal formed in aerobic conditions.
occurrences, associated with the release of flood
waters. In contrast, commercial cranberry beds, under
both low and high P fertilization rates, exhibited
Cranberry growers have a horticultural some P release immediately upon f looding
disincentive to apply excess N fertilizer. T oo regardless of the oxygen levels in the overlying
much N quickly promotes vegetative growth and water. A erobic release was strongly related to
this growth comes at the expense of fruit fertilizer P rate (much more pronounced in the
production (Davenport and Vorsa 1999). As high P soils), while under both low and high P
mentioned above, the ammonium N used in fertilization there was a large release of P as the
cranberry fertilizers is less susceptible to soils became anaerobic.
leaching than nitrate N. T he adoption of Best
Management Practices can assure that N All three soils showed the same timing of
movement out of the bog is minimized. These development of anaerobic conditions and
include: minimizing water in drainage ditches associated P release (~10 days) independent of P
during fertilizer applications, limiting flow from fertilization. P release declined for all soils after
the bog during the growing season (including the about 20 d ays. H owever, the magnitude of
use of tailwater recovery), applying N only at anaerobic P release was dependent upon the
times of plant need (maximizing uptake to the level of P addition during the preceding growing
plants), and limiting N use in the fall. season, with unfertilized soil releasing one tenth
that of the low P fertilized soils. Soils receiving
Cranberry soil chemistry, particularly the high high P appeared to have almost twice the
iron and aluminum associated with acidic soils, anaerobic P release than the low P soils but with
leads to extensive binding of P as iron and much greater variability.
aluminum phosphates in the soil (Davenport et
al. 1997). H owever, it has been shown in rice Data collected from a harvest flood at a field site
(Shahandeh et al. 1994) that P can be released in 2002 showed a similar pattern to that of the
from such compounds when flooded soils high P soils in the laboratory study, with an
become anaerobic. A similar phenomenon initial increase in P for 1-5 days followed by a
occurs in pond sediments during anaerobic large increase in P release to the flood beginning
events. In the absence of oxygen, iron and at 10-12 days (Fig. 6) and leveling out at ~20

139
days (DeMoranville 2006). The bog received 20 acre, are the basis for additional fertilizer best
lb per acre P that season. management recommendations specific to P
management. These include using no more than
The data from these studies indicated that native 20 lb/acre P per season and reducing below that
cranberry wetland soils can act as sinks for P rate if the bog discharges to a sensitive water
under aerobic conditions. U nder commercial body, and holding harvest floods only long
management with P fertilizer applications, enough to allow particle settling and then
cranberry soils no longer removed P from water releasing prior to Day 10. C urrent research
and when fertilizer P applications exceeded 20 efforts are underway to determine if additional
lb per acre, P moved from the bog soil into flood management practices can be developed to
water even under aerobic conditions. A s beds further reduce the P levels in flood discharges.
were held in flooded conditions the soil became
anaerobic after ~10 days and P was released into
the water regardless of bog management. Table 4. C hange in concentration of P in
However, the magnitude to P release from the flood discharge water at a si te where P
soil was proportional to previous fertilizer P reduction was implemented (DeMoranville
additions. et al. 2008).

Fertilizer P P concentration
applied in flood
Year (lb/acre) discharges (ppm)
0.90
Ortho Phosphorus (mg/L)

0.80

0.70
2002 17.8 0.377
2003 14.3 0.424
0.60

0.50
2004 5.6 0.237
0.40
2005 16.5 0.097
0.30

0.20

0.10
Additional reading
0.00
1 5 10 12 16 17 19 20 22 T. Roper, J. Davenport, C. DeMoranville, S.
Days after flood applied Marchand, A. Poole, J. Hart, and K. Patten.
2004. Phosphorus for bearing cranberries in
Fig. 6. Phosphate levels in cranberry bog North America. Joint Publication of UMass
harvest water. W ater collected within the bog Extension, University of Wisconsin Extension,
prior to discharge (arrow) and then at outlet Washington State University, and Oregon State
flume (DeMoranville 2006). University. 9 pp.
http://www.hort.wisc.edu/cran/mgt_articles/artic
les_nutr_mgt/em8741.pdf
At the field site referenced above, fertilizer P
application was reduced beginning in 2003. Davenport, J., C. DeMoranville, J. Hart, and T.
Table 4 shows the change in applied P and the Roper. 2000. Nitrogen for Bearing Cranberries
impact on t he magnitude of P movement into
in North America. Cranberry Nutrition Working
flood water that resulted. T his is further Group. Joint Publication of UMASS, WSU,
evidence that the potential for P release from the
OSU, U- WI Madison and the Cranberry
bog into flood waters can be reduced with Nutrition Working Group, 16pp.
reduction in applied P. http://www.hort.wisc.edu/cran/mgt_articles/artic
les_nutr_mgt/Phoshorus%20Publication%20.pdf
These results, along with the field research
showing that cranberries with sufficient tissue P
do not respond to P additions above 20 l b per

140
 Pollination
Kenna MacKenzie
Pollination is an essential component of insect transfers the pollen. These biotic
cranberry cultivation. P ollination is simply the pollinators visit flowers to collect resources such
transfer of pollen from a st amen (male floral as pollen and nectar. N ectar is their
structure) to a stigma, the tip of the pistil (female carbohydrate source, while pollen is their
floral structure). F ollowing pollen deposition, protein. D uring these foraging visits, pollen
pollen germinates and produces pollen tubes that transfer occurs. B ees are particularly good
grow through the style to the ovaries and if all is pollinators of flowering plants because they
well, fertilization occurs in the ovary. consistently forage for both pollen and nectar,
Pollination can occur within a flower or between visit many flowers during a foraging trip, and
flowers on either the same plant or different because they have a nest that they return to
plants. Plants can be self compatible (called ‘central-place’ foragers).
(fertilization occurs within the same genetic
individual) or self incompatible (pollen must be Cranberry pollen is packaged in a group of four
transferred from a d ifferent genetic individual grains called a tetrad. I t is large (for pollen),
for fertilization to occur). C ranberry is self heavy and sticky, and thus, is not moved by
compatible. wind. Instead, an agent, an insect pollinator, is
required for pollen transfer to occur. B ees are
the most important pollinators of cranberry.

CRANBERRY PLANTS AND YIELD

The cranberry plant consists of horizontal vines

(runners) with vertical stems, commonly called
uprights. T hese uprights may be either
vegetative or reproductive. Generally,
reproductive uprights will have four to five
flowers and produce one to two berries. The
newer hybrid cultivars, such as Stevens, tend to
produce more flowers and berries than the older
cultivars such as Early Black. Both flower and
fruit numbers vary among cultivars, growing
areas, site characteristics, and management
Fig. 1. Cross-sectional diagram of a cranberry strategies.
flower, showing four large anthers (top portion
of stamen that holds the pollen; male part), 3 of While pollination is a necessary step in crop
5 petals, lower portion of the style (female part, production, it is not the only factor that
stalk in center) connected to an inferior ovary influences yield. P lant health, climatic
with seeds. Flower is oriented downward to conditions, disease and insect problems and
convey the appearance of the reproductive parts water availability also influence berry yield.
facing towards the ground, which is the typical Yield potential analysis has shown that the
position. Courtesy unknown. proportion of flowering uprights and fruit set are
the two most important contributors to cranberry
yield. O ther components of lesser importance
Pollination can be abiotic through wind or water, are the total number of uprights per area, the
or biotic in which an agent such as a bird, bat or number of flowers per flowering upright and

141
fruit size. Of these, pollination affects only fruit in field situations, self-pollinated flowers
set and fruit size. So, to maximize production, produce large, marketable fruit. This means that
management practices that result in good plant solid cultivar plantings are economically viable.
cover with lots of uprights, a high proportion of
reproductive uprights and many flowers per
upright are essential. G rowers need to THE CRANBERRY FLOWER AND
remember that while excellent yield is a result of POLLINATION
excellent pollination, due to the many factors
that influence yield, good pollen transfer may The cranberry flower has an interesting
have occurred in fields with low yields. T hus, structure. A s the bud opens, the white or
while pollination must be planned for, it is not a slightly pink petals of the flower separate and
substitute for good crop management. reflex backward exposing the reproductive parts.
There is a single pistil surrounded by a ring of
eight stamens. Nectaries are located at the base
FRUIT SET AND FRUIT SIZE of the flower between the reproductive parts.
The reproductive parts of the flower mature at
Fruit set varies due to many factors including different times. For the first two days after the
such things as plant health, weather and flower opens, the anthers release pollen and the
pollination intensity. O f course, the more female parts are not mature. The pistil continues
pollinators present, the more flowers are likely to grow and the stigma become receptive after
to be visited and the more berries produced. all the pollen is shed.
However, on average just over one-third of the
20 million or more flowers on a n acre of
cranberries will set fruit. This level of set results
in about 150 ba rrels per acre (1 barrel = 100
pounds) for varieties such as E arly Black and
Howes; 200-225 bbl/A for Stevens and Ben
Lear. It is not unreasonable that these averages
can be improved. P roduction levels of
exceeding 300 barrels per acre and up to 50% set
have been recorded.

Fruit size is also influenced by pollination level.

If more pollen is deposited on the stigma, more
seeds will result. And, the more seeds per berry,
the larger it will be. C ranberry flowers require
only a small amount of pollen to be deposited Fig. 2. C ranberry upright with open flower (on
for fruit set to occur. W orking with Stevens left) and flower buds (on right). Courtesy J.
plants and Early Black pollen in greenhouse Mason.
studies in New Jersey, scientists found that
maximum fruit set and berry weight occurred
when eight pollen tetrads were deposited on a Although individuals are theoretically self-
stigma (Cane and Schiffhauer 2003); the fertile, cross-pollinations among individuals
deposition of additional tetrads did not increase actually must occur. Once fertilization occurs,
fruit size. This means that single visits by most the petals are quickly lost. If a f lower is not
bee species including honey bees (that deposit pollinated, the petals can stay attached for up to
seven tetrads on average) are sufficient to three weeks and may deepen to a rosy pink
produce a marketable fruit. Pollen sources also color. A prolonged rosy-colored field may
can influence berry size with cross-pollinated indicate poor pollination.
berries larger than self-pollinated in laboratory
studies (Cane and Schiffhauer 2003). However,

142
Stamen morphology is adapted to a particular CRANBERRY POLLINATORS
kind of foraging by bee pollinators. P ollen is
produced in the anther of the stamen (see Fig. 1). Many different insects (e.g., flies, wasps, bees)
In cranberry, there is a b asal anther sac with a visit cranberry flowers to collect nectar.
long appendage ending in a terminal pore. This However, only bees are consistent pollinators of
floral shape is adapted to a particular type of bee this plant. Pollination effectiveness is related to
foraging behavior called ‘vibratile pollination’ the foraging behavior of the visiting pollinator.
(also called ‘buzz pollination’). What is meant An effective pollinator is one that consistently
by this is that a visiting bee will vibrate her wing forages for cranberry pollen in a manner that
muscles while holding onto the flower. These ensures pollen transfer occurs. F or, example,
vibrations are transferred to the flower and starts berries produced from flowers visited by pollen
pollen moving in the anther sac and results in the foraging bees (including honey bees and bumble
release of a stream of pollen onto the bee. bees) are larger with more seeds than those
produced from flowers visited by nectar
While bumble bees and many of our other native foraging bees. B ees are also known to ‘steal’
bee species carry out this type of foraging, nectar by foraging from the back of the flower.
honey bees do not. H owever, honey bees do While bumble bees almost always forage
collect cranberry pollen using a different ‘legitimately’ for nectar and almost always
foraging method. Honey bees manipulate the collect pollen, honey bees often ‘steal’ nectar
anther sacs with their forelegs, effectively and are inconsistent pollen collectors. B umble
releasing pollen. B umble bees regularly forage bees also tend to carry purer pollen loads than do
for both pollen and nectar at the same time, honey bees. Thus, bumble bees deposit more
while many honey bees will concentrate on cranberry pollen on a stigma than do honey bees.
nectar collection. T his is because honey bee This is likely true for other of our native bee
colonies have a great need of nectar to produce pollinators.
enough honey to survive the winter in
comparison with other bees that need only Native Bees. Many native bee species visit
enough nectar to feed their young and cranberry in areas where cranberry grows
themselves while they are active. Because of naturally. I n Massachusetts, 36 species were
these foraging differences and the often small collected foraging on c ranberry. Most of these
number of honey bees collecting pollen, species were found in very low numbers,
cranberry has been often called a p oor pollen particularly on commercial plantings
plant for bees. T his is not true. Cranberry (MacKenzie 1994). Bumble bees were the most
actually has abundant pollen, it is just that common native bee with eight species identified.
specialized foraging behavior is required to The species reared commercially, Bombus
collect pollen from these flowers. impatiens, was the most numerous. Bees in the
families, Halictidae (sweat bees), Megachilidae
For honey bees in particular, nectar production (leafcutter and mason bees), Andrenidae (digger
is an important attractant to cranberry flowers. bees), and Anthophoridae (carpenter bees) are
Although cranberry produces only a small known to forage on cranberry. In addition, some
amount of nectar per flower, because of the great Vaccinium specialists, Melitta nr. americana
number of flowers on a bed, cranberry can (Melittidae) in Massachusetts and Megachile
provide a rich nectar source. C ultivars vary in addenda in New Jersey are also found.
their nectar production. In New Jersey, Stevens
produced 25-35% more nectar per flower than Bumble bees are robust, hairy bees with black,
Ben Lear and Early Black. This suggests a white and yellow and/or orange markings.
genetic basis to nectar production that could be These colors serve as warning signals indicating
used in breeding programs. distastefulness and the possession of a defense
mechanism, the sting, which protects them from
predators. I t should be noted that all female
bumble bees have smooth stingers and can sting

143
repeatedly. Some species are quite defensive of meadows, wetland) consistently have the most
their colony, while others are fairly mild. abundant and diverse bee populations that are
Bumble bee populations on c ranberry beds in also the most stable (S. Javorek, pers. comm.).
many different growing areas including British Stability is an excellent feature because bee
Columbia, Massachusetts, the north coast of populations are more reliable and the large year
Quebec and Nova Scotia appear to be quite to year variation seen in fields with low habitat
healthy. H owever, there are reports from other diversity is avoided. Having a sequence of floral
areas such as Wisconsin and the major growing sources around plantings is the leading way to
areas in Quebec that native bee populations are maximize residential populations of bees. Early
rather sparse. spring flowering plants are important because
bees including bumble bee queens will establish
If there is a healthy native bee population nests where there are ample food sources. F or
foraging on a commercial cranberry planting, the bumble bees, summer resources are important
grower will have fewer concerns about for the production of reproductives (queens and
pollination needs and require fewer managed drones). A succession of flowering plants must
bees. Thus, methods of conserving, and perhaps be present for bee populations to thrive. In the
even enhancing, native bumble bees and other spring, flowering shrubs and trees such as
native bee populations are being explored. willows and wild plums provide pollen for the
initiation of colonies. Wildflowers provide
Encouraging Native Bees. I n order to have a resources over the summer and fall. Planting of
healthy bee population for cranberry pollination, suitable perennials (e.g., heather, rhododendron)
everything they require must be found near the near beds or supplemental bed pasture in the
bogs. Bees require food and sites for nests and field margins (e.g., borage, catmint, anise
sometimes for mating. Forage must be available hyssop) should enhance bee populations.
for the entire lifespan of the bee. In the case of Undisturbed lands that provide nests sites and
some of the solitary bees, this can be as short as forage are also a good idea.
three to four weeks (the length of their adult
life). For the social bumble bees, forage must be Managed Bees. It is obvious, however, that
available from early spring (when the queens are given the number of flowers on a cranberry bed,
present) to late fall. In addition, the further an growers cannot rely solely on na tive bee
individual has to fly to find food before and after populations for their pollination needs during
the crop, the fewer offspring will be produced. bloom. F our types of managed bees, honey
Nest sites are usually in the ground for both bees, bumble bees, alfalfa leafcutting bees, and
solitary and bumble bees. It may be possible to mason bees, are commercially available. Honey
provide nests for some bees. N est boxes bees and bumble bees are both social species
(wooden boxes about the size of a shoe box with that live in colonies with a reproductive queen,
an overlapping lid, a small entrance hole and a sterile workers and males (called drones) at
filling of insulation material such as upholster’s certain times of the year. A lfalfa leafcutting
cotton or bulk wood) have been tried for bumble bees and mason bees are solitary bees; each
bees with very poor success rates in female is a reproductive that looks after her own
Massachusetts (MacKenzie, unpublished data). young.
Trap nests (small wooden blocks with drilled
holes) are used for mason bees (Osmia species) Honey bees are the most important managed
in other crops. This may help in cranberry pollinator worldwide because they are readily
where Osmia are rarely seen. T he use of available and their management is well known.
pesticides during bloom should be avoided Honey bees are kept in hives and are used for
whenever possible because native bees may be both honey production and pollination. Bumble
adversely affected. bees, also kept in hives, are now reared
commercially for the pollination of greenhouse
Research in lowbush blueberry has found fields tomatoes and are being used for a number of
with the greatest habitat diversity (e.g., forests, field crops including cranberry. A lfalfa

144
leafcutting bees are used on a massive scale in their colony. T his will happen when the hive
Western Canada and the United States for the gets too crowded. N ew queens are produced
pollination of forage crops for seed production. first. Then, the old queen and many workers
In nature, they nest in cavities above ground. leave the colony to find a new home, while a
This means it has been possible to develop new queen and the remaining worker population
artificial nests that are kept in shelters to protect stay in the old colony. Honey bees are well
them from poor weather conditions. M ason known for their defensive behavior when the
bees, also cavity nesters, are used on a sm aller colony is threatened. They will chase and sting
scale for fruit tree pollination. While the vertebrate predators. I t should be noted that
majority of cranberry growers use honey bees worker honey bees have barbed stingers that
for their pollination needs, bumble bees and remain in the skin of their victim pumping
alfalfa leafcutting bees are being used on limited venom into them. While queen honey bees have
acreages. smooth stingers and can sting repeatedly, they
really only use them on other bees.
Honey Bees. The European honey bee (Apis
mellifera), the only honey bee species in North Bumble Bees. L ike honey bees, bumble bees
America, is valued for the honey it produces and are social insects. During mid-summer a colony
for the pollination services it provides. A colony will consist of a q ueen, sterile female workers
consists of a single queen, thousands of workers, and males (drones). However, bumble bees also
brood (eggs and larvae) except for in the winter, have a solitary phase. At the end of the summer,
and drones in the summer and early fall. Larvae reproductives (both male and female) are
are fed a mixture of glandular secretions, pollen produced by a colony. A fter mating, the new
and nectar by workers. A queen is produced queen finds a su itable spot, usually in the
when young female larvae are fed only these ground, and spends the winter there. The new
glandular secretions, often called ‘royal jelly’, in mated queens are the only bumble bees to winter
greater amounts than what is fed to worker as the rest of the colony (drones and workers)
larvae. New queens are usually produced in the die in the fall at the onset of cold weather. In the
spring or early summer, and will live up to five spring, the queen emerges, searches for and
years. The drones mate with these queens and locates a nest site. She establishes her nest and
then die. U nmated drones die in the late begins rearing young while foraging. O nce the
summer or early fall. Once mated, a queen lays first brood emerges, the new workers will take
eggs and also produces chemicals called over the foraging and most nest activities, while
pheromones that mediate the activities within the queen’s tasks now are mainly egg laying.
the hive. T he workers carry out all the duties Bumble bees nest primarily in the ground and
required by the colony including hive tasks and require insulating materials in their nest to keep
foraging. In addition to nectar and pollen, honey the young warm. Thus, they will use sites such
bees also collect propolis (plant resins) that are as abandoned mouse burrows, empty bird nests
used to seal up ho les in the hive and water, and man-made sites such as d iscarded
which is used to cool the colony. mattresses, manure piles and walls of old
buildings. Bumble bees store only enough food
Honey bees have a caste system in which the reserves to keep the colony going for a few days,
youngest workers perform in-hive tasks such as and can be found foraging at lower temperatures
cleaning and feeding young, while older workers and in poorer conditions than both honey bees
guard the colony and forage. A colony and alfalfa leafcutting bees.
sometimes is made up o f more than 80,000
individuals, although 30,000 to 40,000 i s more Bumble bees are reared mainly for the
common. Colony size will vary throughout the pollination of greenhouse crops. Bee producers
year with higher populations present during the also sell colonies for use on field crops.
summer and lowest populations of around Managed bumble bee colonies have potential in
20,000 bees during the winter. H oney bees cranberry production, since these bees are not
reproduce by swarming, essentially splitting aggressive. However, hives can be expensive.

145
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bees (ALB). AL Bs As pollination has become more important to
naturally nest in cracks and crevices many crops, beekeepers have specialized in
aboveground. Thus, it was possible to construct providing this service, often taking their bees to
artificial nests for them. These bees are used on multiple crops for pollination each year. The
a massive scale in forage seed production in pollination season usually begins in mid-spring
Western Canada and the United States, and have and continues into early summer. P ollination
well developed management and equipment. colonies are smaller than those used for
Some advantages of ALBs is that they have producing honey to allow for ease of movement
limited flight and foraging ranges so they tend to between crops and due to disruption in colony
stay where they are put, are not aggressive, and function and buildup with each move. It is
all females forage for both pollen and nectar. known that the field force in small colonies is
However, they do require warmer temperatures proportionally smaller than in large colonies. A
and bright days to work to their potential. They healthy average colony may allocate 50-60% of
are currently being used successfully to pollinate its workers to foraging compared to 35-40% in a
lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) small colony. Wh at this means is a co lony of
particularly in New Brunswick and Quebec. 40,000 bees will have more foragers than two
While research (Stubbs et al. 1999) has shown colonies of 20,000 each. Thus, it is important
that they have potential on cranberry and are that the hives to be used for pollination remain
being used successfully by some growers healthy with enough bees to pollinate the crop.
located near lowbush blueberry growing areas,
there are drawbacks to their use (MacKenzie and Standard Strength for Pollination Hives. A
Schiffhauer, unpublished data). I n particular, colony used for pollination should have the
while management is relatively easy, they do following characteristics:
winter as mature larvae and need to be incubated
in the spring to produce adults at the time of 1. a population in excess of 30,000 worker
crop bloom. T hey also have a number of pests bees,
that must be successfully managed, and 2. at least six frames (honey comb) with
strategies need to be adapted to the crop of brood,
interest. It is best if knowledgeable beekeepers
are involved; this is somewhat difficult due to 3. several frames of honey, and
the distance of most cranberry growing areas 4. be housed in two deep hive bodies.
from the majority of ALB usage.

Beekeeping. B eekeepers maintain colonies Of the methods beekeepers use to build up

throughout the year and expand their operations colonies, strong wintered colonies are more
by starting new colonies in the spring or likely to meet this standard. Colonies started in
summer. C olonies are started by splitting the spring from either packages or nuclei may
existing colonies, or from a package (bees and not be strong enough at pollination times,
queen) or a n ucleus (bees and queen in a small especially if used previously for pollinating
hive). I t usually takes a f ull year to achieve a earlier crops. I n addition, hives that are
sufficient size to be considered a producing established and acclimated to an area seem to
colony. Colony growth occurs if the bees have outperform colonies imported just before the
enough space to store honey and pollen and to pollination season. C ranberry growers should
raise brood. As the colony grows, the beekeeper specify what they expect the colony strength to
needs to supply extra space by adding boxes be and if beekeepers cannot meet that
(supers) to the colony. While bees can be used requirement, provisions should be made for
for both honey production and pollination extra colonies. Good communication between
services, it is becoming more and more common growers and beekeepers is essential. To ensure
for beekeepers to concentrate on one major role. that everyone understands their role, pollination
contracts are a good idea.

146
 FIELD USE OF MANAGED BEES leafcutting bees shows that they have some
potential, but, more work is needed before they
Honey bees will forage whenever the weather can be recommended as a l arge scale viable
conditions are suitable and can fly one to two alternative pollinator on cranberry.
miles to find flowers. They are well known to
prefer other forage to cranberry and growers How many bees are enough? Bees should be
often express concerns about the usefulness of brought onto the cranberry beds during early
the colonies they have rented. F or example, if bloom and removed as soon as possible after
there is a flowering field of clover near by, flowering is finished. When to bring bees into
honey bees from colonies whose purpose is to fields varies with the type of bees. For honey
pollinate cranberry will likely be found foraging bees, more than 15% of the flowers should be
on the clover. Thus, it is important that open before colonies are moved to the crop.
cranberry fields have sufficient open bloom Some recommendations are for 20-25%
before honey bee colonies are placed on the flowering. This differs due to the amount of
fields. In cranberry, it is suggested that 20-25% alternate bloom in an area. If the field to be
of the bloom should be open. The proportion of pollinated is surrounded by cranberry and/or
workers that forage for cranberry pollen varies forest with no alternate bloom, then honey bees
considerably among areas and between years. It can be brought in earlier than if there is other
would be beneficial to develop methods that forage surrounding the beds. B umble bee
increase pollen foraging because pollen foragers colonies can be brought in during early bloom,
are more effective pollinators. Mo st of the as can alfalfa leafcutting bees.
bloom on a cranberry bed can be set in about
four days of good flight activity. How quickly Recommendations for stocking rates for bees are
this is achieved varies and it is recommended as follows:
that bees remain on beds for at least one week of
good weather; this may take up to three weeks of
real time. Bee Stocking Rate per
Acre
Commercially produced bumble bee colonies do Honey bees 1-2 colonies in most
have potential in cranberry production. W hile, growing areas, with up
these colonies have only 100 to 200 foragers and to 5 colonies
are somewhat expensive, they are being used recommended during
successfully for cranberry pollination especially poor weather
in areas near residential areas because bumble conditions
bees are less aggressive than honey bees. These 2-4 colonies in Oregon
bees can be brought to fields at very early bloom Bumble bees 1-4 colonies, probably
(<10%). They should be placed at the field edge requires more
in a protected spot and not placed directly on the Alfalfa leafcutting 20,000 bees
soil. They should be shaded from direct sun and bees
protected from the elements. A tarp or tent
cover works well. A s bumble bees orient to
their nests using features of the landscape, Growers should set up e xcellent relationships
placing the colonies near a p rominent feature with beekeepers to ensure their pollination needs
such as a large tree may increase success. are met. Contracts are a recommended practice
because the expectations of both the grower and
Alfalfa leafcutting bees are being used the beekeeper are specified. It is important that
commercially for pollination of lowbush space on or near the cranberry beds is available
blueberry in Canada. In areas where cranberry for bee placement during the pollination season.
is near to these fields, they are also being used
for cranberry pollination. Research (MacKenzie
and Schiffhauer, unpublished data) with alfalfa

147
 MANAGEMENT PRACTICES good practice. A good integrated pest
management program should be followed to
A number of management practices can ensure that controls are applied only when
influence fruit production and pollination necessary. J udicious use of pesticides,
success. C areful use of fertilizers and other especially insecticides, is important.
cultivation practices are important to optimize Applications should be made either before or
the number of reproductive uprights and flowers after bloom if at all possible. In addition, when
in order to maximum crop yield. While there there is a c hoice, products that are least
are no specific data to document the influence of hazardous to bees should be used. D ust
dry conditions, it has been speculated that formulations should be avoided. A pplications
periods of dry weather may disturb nectar flow. made in late evening after bees have finished
Irrigation may prolong nectar production during foraging or early morning before bees have
such times. started foraging are recommended. Irrigation
has been used as a method to ‘wash’ down
Irrigation scheduling during bloom should be chemical applications. In certain circumstances,
carefully planned as watering and wet beds it may be necessary to cover or even move bees
could limit bee foraging. Thus, timing irrigation to prevent pesticide poisoning.
during periods when bees are least likely to be
active such as late evening or early morning is a

148
 Sign Posting and Description of Zone II Regulations
Jeff LaFleur and Brian Wick

SIGN POSTING • Post signs between 2 and 24 hours prior

to application.
Both state and federal agencies regulate the
• Remove signs no sooner than 48 hou rs
posting of pesticide application warning signs.
after the application and no sooner than
The requirement depends on the product being
the expiration of any REI stated on the
used and the location of the application. In all
label instructions.
cases, the label of the product contains the
wording that will trigger sign posting. • Signs should be removed no later than
48 hours after the expiration of the REI
Restricted Use Pesticides carrying the label stated on the label instructions under the
“Danger” that are applied within 50 feet of a heading “Agricultural Use
public way (road, trail, walkway or any other Requirements”.
land over which the public is likely to pass)
require posting of an EPA Worker Protection
Standards sign with the words: DANGER Federal Restricted Use Pesticides within 300
PESTICIDES, KEEP OUT. feet of a s ensitive area (residential, business,
hospital, or public area) require posting of a
• Post signs every 200 feet along the area federal chemigation sign that states: STOP,
facing the public way and at every KEEP OUT, PESTICIDES IN IRRIGATION
principle entrance facing the public way. WATER.
• Post signs between 2 and 24 hours prior
to the application. • Post signs at all usual points of entry. If
there are no usual points of entry, post at
• Remove signs no sooner than 48 hou rs corners of treated area.
after the application and no sooner than
the expiration of any Restricted Entry • Signs must be posted no sooner than 24
Interval (REI) stated on the label hours before the scheduled application.
instructions. • Signs must be removed within 3 days
• Remove signs no later than 48 hours after the end of the application and any
after the expiration of the REI stated on REI and before entry of agricultural-
the label instructions under the heading workers is permitted.
“Agricultural Use Requirements”.
More information on S ign Posting is available
Aerial Applications of all Pesticides within 500 on the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’
feet of a p rotected area (residential, business, Association web site (www.cranberries.org).
public way, school, park, playground etc.)
require posting of an EPA Worker Protection
Standards sign with the words: DANGER PROTECTION OF GROUNDWATER
PESTICIDES, KEEP OUT. SOURCES OF PUBLIC DRINKING
WATER (ZONE II)
• Post signs at conspicuous points no less
than 200 feet away from one another at The Groundwater Protection Regulations from
every principle entrance fronting a the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural
public road. Resources (MDAR) are intended to prevent

149
contamination of public drinking water supply Any applicator who is in a Primary Recharge
wells through regulating the application of Area and is planning to apply a pesticide on the
pesticide products on the Groundwater Groundwater Protection List must use an
Protection List within primary recharge areas. A alternative pesticide that is not on the
primary recharge area is either an Interim Groundwater Protection List for the particular
Wellhead Protection Area (IWPA) or a Zone II. pest they are seeking to control. If an alternative
Primary Recharge Areas are updated yearly by pesticide is not available, then the applicator
the state. T he pesticide groundwater protection must either follow an MDAR approved
regulations ONLY apply to public drinking Integrated Pest Management Plan or file a
water wells that pump greater than 100,000 Pesticide Management Plan with MDAR in
gallons of water per day. addition to practicing IPM.

MDAR publishes a Groundwater Protection List Primary Recharge Area maps are updated yearly
of those pesticides subject to the regulations. and are available online at both the
The Groundwater Protection List refers to a list Massachusetts Geographic Information System
of pesticide active ingredients that could (www.mass.gov/mgis) and MDAR web sites
potentially impact groundwater due to their (www.mass.gov/agr). More information on
chemical characteristics and toxicological Primary Recharge Area regulations is available
profile. As a result, a product containing any of on the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers’
these active ingredients is regulated if, and only Association web site (www.cranberries.org).
if, it is to be used within the primary recharge
area of a public well.

150
 Pesticide Registration, Licenses, Application, and Storage
Hilary A. Sandler
PESTICIDE REGISTRATION from research scientists and prepares the
package of relevant registration information as
All pesticides used in cranberry production must required by EPA. If successful, the compound
go through rigorous field and laboratory tests, will be approved for use by EPA and issued a
which are ultimately evaluated and regulated by full label registration (also known as a Section 3
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency label).
(EPA). The actual number of pesticides
available for use in cranberries varies from year Specific and Crisis Exemptions. As per
to year as some chemicals are phased out and Section 18 of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide,
new compounds are approved for use. The path and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), pesticides may
to registering a compound is long and also become available for use for specific time
expensive. I t may take 10 t o 20 years to go periods under specific circumstances against a
from discovery of a new compound to specific pest(s) via a permit request process
registration of a commercialized product. This (www.epa.gov/opprd001/section18). Four types
process can cost millions of dollars. of Section 18 pe rmits may be granted, but the
cranberry industry has usually requested
Specific Exemptions and has rarely requested a
Minor Crop Registration. Many pesticides Crisis Exemption. These permits are requested
used in cranberry production are registered with when a compound is in the registration process
the assistance of a specialty crop (minor use) but has not yet been approved for full label use
pesticide registration program known as the IR- by the EPA (i.e., it is still technically
4 Project. This program is specifically designed unregistered). The other criterion needed to
to supply specialty crops with pest management justify a petition for an emergency use permit is
tools by developing research data to support that pesticides that once provided control for a
new EPA tolerances and labeled product uses particular pest are no longer available. Loss of
(http://ir4.rutgers.edu/index.html). IR-4 is availability may be due to resistance of the pest
administered through the USDA-ARS National to the compound or loss of product(s) through
IR-4 Director and the U.S. is divided into four de-registration. These permits are usually
regions. The eastern regional headquarters, written by a University scientist, who submits
affiliated with Rutgers, The State University of the package to Massachusetts Department of
New Jersey are located in Princeton, NJ. Agricultural Resources (MDAR). This state
agency will then make the formal request to
To start the process, representatives of the EPA.
cranberry industry work together with cranberry
scientists to identify the most promising For Specific and Crisis Exemptions, significant
compounds. Once identified, the industry economic loss by the industry without the use of
solicits financial support from IR-4 and/or the the requested compound must be clearly
registrant (the company that manufactures the demonstrated. A petition for a Specific
chemical) to conduct the field trials and process Exemption can take several months from
fruit samples for pesticide residues. All submission to approval. When applying for a
procedures must conform to Good Laboratory Crisis Exemption, the situation must be dire and
Practices (GLP), which mandates meticulous the timeline in which EPA must respond to the
record keeping. IR-4 designs the residue field request is substantially shortened as compared to
trials; these are typically conducted at several a Specific Exemption. In either case, the
sites across the country. IR-4 coordinates the exemption is granted for a limited time period
collection of field and laboratory residue data (usually several months). Repeat requests for

151
the same compound and the same pest must be recommendations should acknowledge the
submitted on an annual basis and approved each invocation of the FIFRA 2(ee).
time. For more information on the Section 18
process, please go to EPA’s web site as n oted
above. PESTICIDE LICENSES FOR
APPLICATORS
Special Local Needs. Under the authority of
Section 24(c) of FIFRA, states may register an Massachusetts pesticide law requires that all
additional use of a federally registered pesticide persons who apply pesticides in public areas and
product, or a new end-use product to meet private places used for human occupation and
special local needs. EPA reviews these habitation, must be in possession of a valid
registrations, and may disapprove the state license or certification issued by the
registration if, among other things, the use is not Massachusetts Department of Agricultural
covered by necessary tolerances, or the use has Resources (MDAR). I n accordance with the
been previously denied, disapproved, suspended Massachusetts Pesticide Control Act and the
or canceled, or voluntarily canceled subsequent current pesticide regulations, MDAR conducts
to a notice concerning health or environmental written examinations to measure competency to
concerns (http://www.epa.gov/opprd001/24c). use, sell, and apply pesticides in Massachusetts.
States have been granted the authority by FIFRA For the most up-to-date information, go to the
to issue special local needs registrations under MDAR Pesticide Bureau web site,
certain conditions while EPA is responsible for http://www.mass.gov/agr/pesticides.
overseeing the general program.
Four types of licenses are offered by MDAR.
This procedure is usually fairly straight-forward. Most cranberry growers who apply pesticides to
It requires submission of an application and their own beds have Private Applicator
payment of a fee by the registrant and the Certification. Private certification is for
submission of an application explaining the new applicators who use or supervise the use of
use and justification of need by a University restricted-use or state-limited pesticides for the
scientist. Even as simple as this procedure is, it purpose of producing any agricultural
may take 1 to 2 years from initiation to approval commodity on pr operty owned or rented by the
of to a 24(c) registration. These do not need to grower or their employer. This assumes no
be renewed and are in effect as l ong as t he compensation is granted other than the trading
compound remains registered by EPA. of personal services between producers of
agricultural commodities on the land of another
FIFRA 2(ee). Occasionally, situations arise person. A Commercial Applicator License
where a small change in the label language of a permits individuals to use general use pesticides,
registered product would satisfy a p est or any restricted-use pesticide under the direct
management need. FIFRA Section 2 (ee) supervision of a certified applicator, for hire or
permits “use of any registered pesticide in a compensation for any purpose or on any
manner inconsistent with its labeling”. S uch property other than that defined for the private
situations might include recommending use of a applicator certification. The third category is
pesticide for a target pest not currently listed on Commercial Applicator Certification. This
the label or applying a pesticide at a dose lower certification is for someone who uses or
than specified on the label (unless the label supervises the use of any pesticide that is
specifically prohibits any rate deviation). A classified for restricted use for hire or
knowledgeable expert (typically a University compensation for any purpose or on any
Extension professional or faculty member) can property not covered in the definition for the
make such a recommendation. A ll other use private certification. The fourth license type
patterns and directions specified as on the covers those wishing to sell restricted-use or
pesticide label must be followed. A ny written state-limited pesticides; they must obtain a
Dealer License.

152
 APPLICATION OF CHEMICALS can affect the coefficient of uniformity (CU) of
an irrigation system, which ultimately impacts
Pesticides can be applied to Massachusetts the delivery of water, pesticides, and fertilizers
cranberry beds in several ways: chemigation onto the production area. G rowers should
(application through the sprinkler system), always try to maximize the CU for their
ground application, wiper application, and aerial systems. Design experts should be consulted to
application. determine system requirements, especially when
installing new systems in recently constructed or
Chemigation. Chemigation, or application of renovated sites.
chemicals through a solid-set irrigation system,
is the most common method of pesticide Ground Application. Growers may employ
delivery in Massachusetts (See Chemigation several types of ground applicators to apply
chapter). I nsecticides, fungicides, herbicides, preemergence and postemergence herbicides
and fertilizers may be applied through the and granular fertilizers. Most growers use
irrigation system. G rowers often use a motor-powered herbicide rigs (e.g., Gephardt) to
specialized piece of equipment, a ch emigation apply granular preemergence herbicides in the
injection unit, to mix the pesticide with water in spring. During the growing season, growers
the irrigation system. Injection systems must may need to apply fertilizers or spot-treat weeds
provide backflow prevention through the with herbicides. Typical ground applications
inclusion of various check valves. P esticides may involve the use of various hand-held
cannot be introduced into a system through the devices to apply postemergence herbicide
suction side of the pump. Growers are solutions (as wipes or sprays), machines that use
encouraged to contact chemigation specialists a large roller to apply (as a wipe) postemergence
prior to purchasing injection equipment. herbicides, or hand-crank rotary spreaders for
the application of granular fertilizers. Mo re
The application rate of a chemical applied by recently, growers are incorporating the use of
chemigation is dictated by the label and is boom sprayers as another type of ground
typically applied in 300-500 gallons of water per application equipment. Photographs of
acre. The effectiveness of many pesticides, equipment used in pesticide applications may be
especially the newer chemistries, may be found in the Weed Management section.
affected by the amount of time needed for water
to move from the first head to last head in the Aerial Application. Aerial applications of
irrigation system (wash-off time). W ash-off pesticides are made by specially equipped
time has the greatest impact on the performance helicopters. Even though helicopters are most
of the chemical injected into the system. If the often used to perform other normal agricultural
wash-off time is long, material applied early in practices (e.g., removal of harvested fruit or
the delivery may wash off the cranberry leaves ditch debris), certain pesticides and fertilizers
by the time the chemical reaches the last heads, may be applied by air. A typical aerial pesticide
thus reducing the effectiveness of the chemical. application uses approximately 5-25 gallons of
Growers should always read the label of any water per acre. A erial application is more
product prior to use to familiarize themselves expensive than other methods of application.
with any specific instructions for that material. Growers decide whether to use aerial application
based on e fficacy of the product, cost of the
The layout of a system, age of the components application, proximity to abutters, and available
in the system (e.g., nozzles, gaskets, lines) as labor and time. Most aerial applications are
well as the type and height of the sprinkler granular fertilizers.
heads, can affect the performance of an
irrigation system (Sandler 1998a). G rowers Acres Treated. The number of acres treated
routinely clean and inspect their systems for with any particular pesticide can vary greatly
signs of leaks and excessive wear. Many factors from year to year. T hese values are heavily
dependent on pest pressures and available

153
products in a given year (Sylvia and Guerin precautions are needed with these materials.
2008). For Massachusetts, chemigation is the Liquid or emulsified product may have
industry norm for pesticide application. In 2003 restricted temperature ranges at which they
and 2005, 81% and 78% of all treated acres should be stored. In general, liquid or
received pesticides via chemigation, emulsified materials should not be stored at
respectively. For the same years, approximately temperatures below 45°F nor at temperatures
6% and 4% of all treated acres received that consistently exceed 100°F.
pesticides by ground application (mostly
herbicides). F or both years, 6% of all treated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) should be
acres received herbicide applications by hand or read for current disposal information. E mpty
machine wipers (J. DeVerna, Ocean Spray containers should be kept in a safe place until
Cranberries, Inc., pers. comm.). disposal. Empty bags and triple-rinsed liquid
containers can be placed in sanitary landfills or
Aerial spraying of pesticides continues to play a incinerated, or if permitted by l ocal authorities,
relatively minor role, especially compared to by local burning. E mpty liquid containers
chemigation. I n 2005, 12% of all pesticide should be triple-rinsed and offered for recycling
applications made in Massachusetts were or reconditioning, if available.
applied by air (down from 15% in 1995).
Compared to 1995 data noted in the previous More information on pesticide storage (as well
edition of this publication (Sandler 1997), the as mixing and loading) may be found at:
percentage of acres treated with aerial fungicide http://www.mass.gov/agr/pesticides/waste/index
applications have remained stable at 17%. The .htm.
percentage of aerial herbicide and insecticide
applications have decreased from 32% to 11% Disposal of Pesticides. When a pesticide is
and from 14% to 10%, respectively (J. DeVerna, being phased out, announcements are made by
Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., pers. comm.). EPA to notify Extension personnel and growers
that the period of legal application of a
particular compound is expiring. This typically
PESTICIDE STORAGE occurs because the food tolerance for a
compound is being revoked. Any material,
Growers may purchase quantities of pesticides remaining in the hands of growers (i.e., that is
in the spring in anticipation of their use during not used or given back to a distributor) will be
the growing season. These pesticides should be considered hazardous waste once the tolerance
stored in well-ventilated and secured storage is revoked. Unused pesticides must then be
facilities (DeMoranville and Sandler 2000a). It disposed of as hazardous waste, and growers
is recommended to avoid carry-over of extra must absorb all related costs.
pesticides. G rowers should always try to buy
only what they will need for the current season. Cape Cod (Barnstable County) Cooperative
Containers should be labeled with date of Extension has offered collection of household
purchase and the date the container was opened. and agricultural hazardous waste at minimal or
Pesticides should be sorted by type within the no cost to the grower. Check their web site for
facility and stored in their original container. current program status and any other relevant
information:
Dry pesticides (granulars, powders) should be http://www.capecodextension.org/home.php.
stored in a cool, dry place. Generally, no other

154
 Breakdown and Movement of Pesticides
Hilary A. Sandler
The movement of a pesticide in the soil is bog. The presence of this restrictive layer would
influenced by the properties of the soil and the further separate chemicals applied to the
properties of the chemical (Biggar and Seiber cranberry bog from the groundwater.
1987; Brady and Weil 1996). Once added to the
soil, a pesticide is degraded by biological, Current best management practices (BMP)
physical, and chemical processes that influence recommend that beds constructed on upland
its behavior in the soil environment (Goring and soils utilize a p erched water table above the
Hanmaker 1972; Maier-Bode and Hartel 1981; natural water table. Below the perched water
Deubert 1990). T he following discussion table is an organic-confining layer followed by a
outlines the principle factors that affect the water-confining layer (an impermeable layer that
movement and breakdown of chemicals applied mimics the natural restrictive layer found
to the soil. underneath many traditional bogs). These layers
are constructed to enable the grower to hold
floodwaters for harvest and pest management
PROPERTIES OF THE SOIL activities and to minimize leaching. The natural
water table lies beneath all of these layers.
Soil Texture and Bog Structure. The relative
amounts of sand, silt, and clay in a soil are The clay fraction can be very important in
collectively known as soil texture. Sand is a influencing the behavior of chemicals in some
very prominent component of most cranberry soils. H owever, typical cranberry soils contain
soils, sometimes accounting for as much as 98% less than 1.0% clay, an amount that does not
of the soil mineral matter. M any cranberry significantly improve the adsorption capacity of
growers in Massachusetts use the cultural a bog soil. The clay fraction is thus considered
practice of sanding every 2-5 years. S anding to play a very minor role affecting the
stimulates vine growth by encouraging shoot breakdown and movement of pesticides in
production and improving soil aeration. T he Massachusetts cranberry beds.
occasional application of a 0.5 to 2.0 inch layer
of sand over the layer of leaves that have Organic Matter. Organic matter content is the
naturally fallen off the vines creates a unique most influential factor affecting the fate of a
soil situation called stratification. These events soil-applied pesticide. Even though it may only
and activities, which are repeated over time, comprise 1-2% of the soil composition (as in
result in layers of organic matter interspersed Massachusetts beds), the importance of organic
with layers of sand in the upper profile of matter must be emphasized. Its large surface
cranberry bog soil. area adsorbs cations and organic compounds in
the soil solution. Soils high in organic matter
Commercial beds built on the contours of iron have a l ow potential for pesticide leaching.
ore bogs will have a stratified soil profile in the Research indicates that compounds applied to
uppermost layers (the thickness will vary cranberry beds are retained in the top 0-4 inches
depending on t he age of the bog), typically of soil.
followed by a substratum of peat. This
substratum may be 10-30 feet thick. P esticides The flow of water through the cranberry root
are largely retained in the upper layers of the zone is slowed by the presence of organic
organic component of the stratified bog soil, matter. Chemicals can then have time to react
though some may be retained in the peat with the organic matter. In addition, nutrients
substratum. A dditionally, a natural restrictive can be retained in the root zone long enough to
layer may occur beneath the peat layer of the be taken up by the plant. Organic matter also

155
acts as a nutrient reservoir, and supports easily moved, unless soil erosion occurs.
microorganisms that are associated with the Chemicals with low Koc values have a greater
breakdown of plant material and chemicals that tendency to be moved with water, thus may be
are introduced to the environment. moved away from the area of application either
by run-off or leaching. The degree of adsorption
Soil Moisture. The natural setting of a is dependent upon the chemical structure and
cranberry bog ensures that soil water is not concentration of the pesticide in the soil water
physically far away from the vines. However, in and on the organic matter content.
the cranberry system, a high soil moisture
content does not guarantee that water is Solubility. The maximum amount of a
accessible to the roots. Water that contributes to substance that can be dissolved in water at a
the soil moisture content may be held given temperature is a measure of its solubility.
tenaciously by the peat fraction and is Generally, compounds that have low solubility
unavailable for plant uptake. The movement of tend to remain on the soil surface and not leach
water downward is impeded by the mat of fine, through the soil profile. C ompounds with high
fibrous roots produced by the cranberry vines, solubilities are more likely to be moved with
and by layers of organic matter. Stratification water through the soil. However, there are
encourages the horizontal movement of water exceptions to the principle of highly soluble
within cranberry beds. compounds being more apt to move through the
soil, as other environmental factors can decrease
The movement of water and chemicals through the probability of leaching and always need to
the soil may not be the same; the pesticide may be considered.
be slowed due to its adsorption to organic
matter. R esearch indicated that pesticides are Persistence. Used only as a relative indicator of
primarily retained in the top two inches of bog persistence, the half-life of a compound refers to
soil (K. Deubert, personal communication). the time required for a chemical to degrade to
Since the degradative activities of soil one-half of its original concentration. I n
microorganisms are also dependent upon the general, the longer the half-life, the greater the
availability of water, pesticides tend to break potential for pesticide movement within the
down more rapidly in moist soils. environment. T he compound may resist
degradation long enough to be moved into the
Contrary to a common misconception, groundwater or carried from the application site
cranberries are not grown in a constantly flooded by run-off. H alf-life values are greatly
state. C ranberries need a consistent source of dependent upon o ther parameters such as soil
water to grow properly, but the root system moisture, temperature, oxygen status, soil pH,
cannot grow in saturated soil. W ell-maintained concentration of the chemical, application
beds will have the ability to provide adequate method, presence of microbial populations, etc.
water on a regular basis coupled with good soil Half-life values for any compound can be
drainage. Good soil drainage is important for variable and should be used only as a g eneral
providing a favorable environment for pesticide guideline and/or in conjunction with other
degradation. known chemical properties. In general, modern
chemicals have significantly shorter half-lives
than pesticides that were used 30 years ago.
PROPERTIES OF THE PESTICIDE
Odor. S ome pesticides or their carriers have
Soil Adsorption. Koc is a m easure of soil strong odors that some people may find
adsorption, the tendency for pesticides to offensive. The odor may be a warning agent
become attached to organic particles. High Koc added to the pesticide to signal that a chemical
values indicate that a p esticide is strongly has been recently applied or it may be an
adsorbed to the soil surface and therefore is not

156
aromatic organic solvent specifically added to related to solubility. T herefore, as the
facilitate dissolution of the pesticide. temperature rises, the adsorption of the
compound tends to decrease. T he compound
Application of a strong-smelling pesticide when would tend to move with water through the soil
the humidity is high and the air is very still may profile.
increase the likelihood of neighbors detecting a
strong odor. This does not mean that the Leaching. The process by which materials are
pesticide has drifted off the bog. It is a washed through the soil by the movement of
misconception to assume that if one smells a water is known as leaching. P lants with dense
pesticide odor that the chemical has drifted off root systems, such as cr anberries, tend to lower
of the bog. the leaching potential of pesticides due to
increased soil aeration and larger microbial
Many pesticide odors are formulated fragrances populations that tend to be associated with the
and not part of the active ingredients. Because root zone. G enerally, the amount leached is
they are fragrances, odors will carry much directly related to its solubility. The higher the
farther than the actual droplet portions of a solubility, the less likely the compound will be
pesticide spray. However, the odors will be adsorbed to the soil, and the greater its potential
more likely to carry in the humid air. This to be leached. T he intensity and frequency of
principle is similar to the odor often associated rainfall, as well as an y use of the irrigation
with the ocean’s low tide. Often during a humid system, affects the amount of the chemical that
day in the summer, one can smell the odor of is leached as w ell as the depth to which a
mud and salt from the exposed earth long before material is leached.
the ocean is seen.
Dissipation Pathways
PROCESSES AFFECTING Volatilization Foliar
Interception
DEGRADATION AND MOVEMENT & Dissipation
Spray Drift
The primary processes involved in degradation
or movement of a pesticide applied to the soil Surface Runoff
Applied Pesticide Wash-off
are documented in the figure. The significance
of these processes in determining the persistence Lateral
Plant Uptake

or breakdown of any chemical is dependent Flow Sorption /

upon many interrelated factors (e.g., soil and Retention
Transformations
pesticide properties). D espite the development Leaching
microbial
chemical
of complex mathematical models, predicting the
exact behavior of a chemical in the dynamic soil
ecosystem is still very difficult. Fig. 1. Illustration of the many processes
associated with the breakdown of a pesticide.
Pesticide Adsorption and Desorption. The http://www.epa.gov/oppefed1/ecorisk_ders/toera
tendency for chemicals to adhere to the soil _analysis_exp.htm. Plant drawing courtesy
surface is a continuous, reversible process. The http://aquat1.ifas.ufl.edu/drawlist.html.
more organic matter that is present, the more
adsorption may occur. Adsorption is inversely
related to soil moisture content, water Plant Uptake. T he uptake and movement of a
movement, and solubility. chemical into a plant is affected by the age of
the plant, climatic factors, pesticide formulation,
As the soil moisture content increases and the and mode of application. Uptake occurs to both
amount of material dissolved in water increases, target and non-target plants. The persistence of
adsorption decreases. The effect of temperature any chemical in the plant is directly related to
can be variable, but temperature is directly the rate of the metabolism of the plant.

157
Evaporation. According to its tendency to CONCLUSION
vaporize, a compound will evaporate when in
contact with air or moisture. T he rate of Due to the influence of organic matter in
evaporation is directly related to the soil cranberry soils and the dense root systems of the
moisture content and temperature. However, cranberry vines, the potential for movement of
when more organic matter is present, the pesticides to groundwater is low. P enetration
potential for adsorption of the compound is into lower soil layers is inhibited due to the
increased and the potential for evaporation is retention of organic chemical in the top 0-4
decreased. inches of the soil. S tratification provides a
reservoir of adsorption sites that are found in the
Microbial Decomposition. D egradation by uppermost portions of cranberry soil profiles.
microorganisms depends on m any factors These alternating layers of sand and organic
including the chemical structure and matter facilitate the horizontal movement of
concentration of the pesticide, temperature, soil water; downward flow is impeded. The organic
organic matter content, pH, available water, and matter content serves as a substrate for microbial
nutrients. Most microorganisms are found in the population that actively degrades pesticides.
root zone; if a material is moved quickly past the
roots, degradation by microbial activity is Concentrated in the upper 2-4 inches of the soil,
significantly reduced. Often, pesticide the dense fibrous root system of the cranberry
degradation is an incidental event for many vines slows the downward movement of water
microorganisms, i.e., the chemical is not used as and serves as an additional deterrent to leaching.
an energy or nutrient source by the organism. Furthermore, cranberry vines may be separated
from the groundwater by the presence of a
Chemical Degradation. H ydrolysis, the restrictive layer under the peat (as in
breakdown of a compound by water, is an Massachusetts beds) and stagnant bog water.
important pathway of chemical degradation. Currently, it is recommended to hold water
The rate of these reactions is temperature and within the bog system for variable time periods
pH-dependent. Many pesticides react with water to allow for degradation (see Cranberry Chart
to produce compounds that are usually less toxic Book for specific times). Thus, the potential for
than the parent compounds. groundwater and surface contamination is
reduced further in these situations.
Photodecomposition. The energy of sunlight
may break down organic compounds, causing When pesticides are used properly and
them to lose their effectiveness. P esticides judiciously, the cranberry agroecosystem
applied to plant surfaces are more subject to contains a suitable contingent of biological and
photodecomposition than those that are chemical properties that buffer the potential
incorporated or injected into the soil. This factor movement of compounds into water and land
is generally of minor importance relative to resources.
other factors that affect pesticide degradation
and movement.

158
 Normal Agricultural Practices for Maintenance or
Improvement of Cranberry Bogs
Cape Cod Cranberry Growers' Association
The practices set forth below are based on a of the farm. R emoval of trees and vegetation
number of important agricultural and within this zone is allowed to control alternate
environmental principles. These activities have hosts (as long as no m ore than 50% of the
evolved over the years as growers find more canopy is removed) or to maintain existing
efficient ways to accomplish certain jobs. I n dikes.
many cases, the activities are predicated by
research results published from major
agricultural and academic institutions.
Improvements and amendments will be made as BURNING
research and technology dictate.
Growers cut brush adjacent to the bogs to
Under certain circumstances, some of the improve sunlight and air circulation for their
activities may require a permit from local, state, bogs. A n efficient method of disposing of the
or federal agencies. R egulations that may be light brush is to burn it on-site. A gricultural
triggered by agricultural activities are listed at burning is done primarily during the winter
the end of this chapter. Growers should contact months under damp or snowy conditions to
the CCCGA or the appropriate authority (see minimize damage to surrounding woodlands.
“Directory of Agencies”) if they are unsure if a
particular activity falls under the jurisdiction of
one or more of these regulations.
CLEANING AND DREDGING
RESERVOIRS AND WATER STORAGE
SYSTEMS
BRUSH CUTTING AND
TREE CLEARING Reservoirs and water storage systems lose
holding capacity because of vegetation growth
Removal of brush and trees around the perimeter and siltation, reducing the availability of water
of the bog is necessary for the following for frost protection, irrigation, and harvest
reasons: 1) promotes air movement that helps (Franklin 1948). These reservoirs and other
reduce frost risk. Air movement on the bog also storage systems must be cleaned and dredged
minimizes potential for fungal infection; 2) from time to time to maintain water availability.
removes plants that may serve as hosts for Usually only a sm all area of the reservoir is
certain insects (this decreases the risk of dredged (~6-10 feet) and volume needed is
infestations on the bog and may reduce pesticide based on one week’s pumping. S hallow water
usage); 3) minimizes weed incursion and helps supplies need to be cleaned and deepened for a
cut down on herbicide usage; and 4) encourages number of reasons, including but not limited to:
sunlight to reach the vine canopy. Although the 1) to insure movement of water to pumps or
area to be kept clear depends upon the slope, water control structures; 2) to control vegetation
type of vegetation present, and the direction of growth that clogs pump suction; and 3) to insure
the sun, this area is generally at least 50 feet but water availability in cold weather when ice
can extend up t o 100 f eet, for land not in a forms.
bordering vegetative wetland (BVW). For land
in a BVW, tree removal is not allowed within 25
feet of a water body that is not managed as part

159
 CLEARING LAND IN PREPARATION time will devastate a cranberry crop; thus, free-
FOR SAND PITS running ditches are necessary. R emoval of
excess ditch material may be done by truck or
Periodic sanding of cranberry vines is a v ery helicopter.
important part of cranberry cultivation. T o
accomplish this, cranberry growers must either
purchase sand or use natural sand deposits FERTILIZER AND PESTICIDE
located on their property. T hese sand deposits, APPLICATION
usually located in the hills surrounding the bogs,
require that the trees and brush be cleared and Fertilizers are applied to cranberry bogs to
the top soil removed to allow removal of sand replace nutrients necessary for growth.
deposits by the grower. Screening of the sand is Fertilizing the bogs begins in the spring and
frequently required. continues until fall. Time and rate of application
varies with each individual bog. H owever,
growers strive to maximize plant uptake.
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Fertilizers can be applied aerially with the use of
OF BUILDINGS helicopters, or on the ground through irrigation
systems, rotary spreaders, or motorized vehicles
Structures that house and protect equipment (Chandler 1961; DeMoranville et al. 1996b;
used for harvest, sanding, and other production Sylvia and Guerin 2008).
related operations are built near bogs to provide
easy and efficient access. General maintenance Application of pesticides is a n ecessary
of the structures includes painting, replacement component of cranberry agriculture to prevent
of damaged wood or foundation, roofing, siding, damage to the cranberry plant by various pests.
etc. During the season, each grower scouts the
cranberry bogs for pests (e.g., insects, weeds,
and disease). I f the pest population reaches a
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE predetermined economic threshold, the grower
OF PUMP HOUSES decides which management strategy is needed to
bring the population below the threshold (Sylvia
Pump houses are built to protect irrigation and and Guerin 2008). Chemicals are applied to the
pumping equipment from weather and possible cranberry bog using chemigation systems,
vandalism. The pump house is built next to the helicopters, and portable spray units.
water source for efficient access. G eneral
upkeep would include painting, re-roofing, new Herbicides are applied in the spring as broadcast
siding, and replacement of decayed timbers. applications to prevent weed emergence and as
postemergence sprays or wipes during the
summer to control weeds growing above the
DITCH CLEANING vine level (DeMoranville et al. 1996b; Sylvia
and Guerin 2008).
Ditches facilitate flooding and draining of the
bog, and keep the water table close to the root
zone during the growing season (Deubert and FLOODING AND FLOOD RELEASE
Caruso 1989). These ditches must be kept free-
flowing. D itch cleaning is necessary to keep Cranberry growers flood their beds primarily for
water moving and to cut down the amount of three reasons: 1) water harvesting in September-
fungicides necessary (Bergman 1954; November; 2) protection from winter injury
Demoranville 1980). I t also helps to manage during December-March; and 3) enhancement of
certain weeds that grow in excessively wet fruit quality by holding a flood from mid-April
conditions, thus reducing the amount of to mid-May late water).
herbicides used. Excessive flooding at blossom

160
In addition to the above, a small number of boxes or bags. B erries are removed from the
growers without irrigation systems utilize bog either by bog vehicles or helicopters. The
flooding for frost protection. Some growers will other method, wet harvesting, involves flooding
employ the practice of flooding the bog to apply the bog with up to one foot of water and
sand by means of a specialized barge during late mechanically removing the berries from the
fall-late spring. Flooding can also be used as a vines. B erries are corralled and removed from
cultural practice to reduce insect damage. F or the bog by pumps or conveyors. Nearly 90% of
some insects, it is the only known control. the crop is wet-harvested (DeMoranville et al.
1996b).
When flooding the bogs, growers take advantage
of portable pumps and/or stationary lift pumps.
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

GATE AND FENCE CONSTRUCTION Low-volume sprinkler systems are essential for
applying water for frost protection and
Gates are normally built to control access to a irrigation, as well as for applying pesticides and
bog to minimize vandalism and theft. fertilizers in modern cranberry cultivation. It is
Construction and maintenance of gates is common for the main and lateral lines to be
ongoing throughout the year. buried.

When the new bogs are constructed, before

GENERAL MAINTENANCE OF PUMPS vines are set out, a sprinkler system is set in
AND EQUIPMENT place. Man y systems that were buried in the
bogs during the 1960’s and 1970’s are now
The irrigation pump is the grower’s lifeline being replaced or upgraded as new technology
between success and failure. T his pump must develops. Older systems were generally
provide water to protect the vines and berries undersized and need to be replaced with larger
during spring and fall frost time, respectively, pipes. The proper spacing and sizing of the
and during the summer heat. Many chemicals modern systems provides uniform distribution of
and fertilizers are applied through the sprinkler irrigation water, which leads to a more
system, powered by either an internal conservative use of water.
combustion or electric motor. These motors
must be able to start on a moment’s notice and These modern systems are usually made of black
run without fail for 10-12 hours. Proper poly pipe plowed into the ground or trenched in
maintenance of these units is essential. Growers by backhoes as in the case of main supply line.
test and maintain the pumps on a regular basis. For most of the year, only the sprinkler heads
are seen but following harvest, these heads are
Equipment is used for almost every phase of removed. They are again put into place in early
production, including but not limited to: 1) spring (DeMoranville et al. 1996b). C urrently,
harvesting, 2) sanding, and 3) ditch cleaning. many growers are also installing pop-up heads
This equipment is constructed and maintained in instead of traditional impact sprinkler heads.
buildings adjacent to bogs. Pop-up heads do not need to be removed each
year since they sit flush with the ground and
distribute a more uniform spray of water,
HARVESTING thereby increasing efficiencies.

Cranberry harvest takes place once a year from

mid-September through early November. T wo MAINTAINING DIKES AND FLUMES
methods of harvest are employed. One method
is dry harvesting, which involves using Since most cranberry bog dikes were built by
machines to rake the berries off the vines into hand and are not wide or strong enough to

161
accommodate large vehicles, it became POND CONSTRUCTION
necessary to repair and widen them. In addition,
animals continuously bore holes in dikes causing Construction of water-holding facilities for
structural damage (Franklin 1948). A irrigation and water management is a common
combination of wind action, when the bogs are practice. Existing small ponds may be expanded
flooded, and heavy rains, deteriorate the dikes, or ponds can be excavated in suitable areas
making graveling and re-sloping necessary. adjacent to the bog.
Properly maintained dikes provide storm water
protection.
PRUNING VINES
Water control flumes were mostly made of wood
or concrete and time and weather have taken Pruning vines removes the woody portion of the
their toll to the point where replacement with cranberry plant. W oody portions produce few
new metal ones is necessary. In some cases, the uprights. P runing the undesirable parts enables
old flumes were small and it is necessary to the plant to put more resources into the
enlarge them to improve water management flowering uprights, thus increasing production
efficiency. Faulty, leaking flumes result in lost (Franklin 1948). P runing also eliminates the
water, making flume replacement a water heavy vine growth that promotes the
conservation practice. development of fruit rot (DeMoranville et al.
1996b). Pruning may be done simultaneously
during dry harvest with machines that prune as
MOWING they pick. It may also be done after harvest, or
in the spring before the vines break dormancy.
Upland areas adjacent to cranberry beds are
periodically mowed during the growing season
to prevent weed seeds from moving onto the bog REGULATING WATER FLOW
and to minimize the risk of fire. Underbrush is
Many growers utilize water from lakes and
also cut and removed at different times
ponds and control the dams and flumes that
throughout the year.
allow water to be released. Most growers hold
deeded water rights. Fluctuations in water levels
may occur during flooding and flood release
POLLINATION
associated with harvesting, winter protection,
Cranberries are normally in bloom from mid- and late water floods (Franklin 1948; Gilmore
June to mid-July. T o aid in the pollination 1986).
process, hives of bees are brought to the bogs
during this period. One – two hives of bees are
generally believed to be necessary to pollinate ROAD MAINTENANCE
one acre of bog. These bees may be brought to
Bog road maintenance is a y ear-round activity
the bog on trucks during evening or night hours
consisting of grading and filling in pot holes,
since that is the time when all bees are in the
correcting washouts, mowing back brush along
hive. O nce the cranberries are pollinated, bees
roadsides, and pruning of tree branches.
may be removed to pollinate other crops.
Generally, bees are present on c ranberry bogs
for approximately one month. M any growers
who own and rent hives keep them on t he SANDING
property year-round. Every few years, one-half to one inch of sand is
applied to cranberry bogs as an essential part of
good bog management. S and can be applied
directly to the vines in the spring or fall, applied
directly on the ice during the winter, or by barge

162
in unfrozen flood waters during the fall, winter, Bypass canals are normally used as a temporary
or early spring. Mo st growers use specialized diversion when a m oving stream bisects a b og
sanders that many have built themselves (Norton area. The canal diverts the stream to the
1982). Sanding is a cultural practice that perimeter of the bog area and out of the area
stimulates new vine growth, suppresses insects, where pesticides might be applied.
improves drainage of surface water, and helps to
hasten the breakdown of the trash layer making
more nutrients available (Franklin 1948; TRAPPING
DeMoranville et al. 1996b).
Muskrats and other burrowing animals pose
serious threat to cranberry bogs and the water
SQUARING OFF BOGS management systems. These animals tunnel into
beds, causing the muck soil to collapse and
Many bogs in southeastern Massachusetts were rendering the bed unusable. They also damage
constructed in the early 1900’s by hand labor. dikes and flumes, which can cause major
Modern equipment of today, including washouts that damage property and endanger
excavators and bulldozers, allows growers to human lives. Only if all “non-lethal techniques”
straighten crooked edges and odd-shaped pieces. have been used to control an animal without any
Straightening edges make tasks such as success and the animal poses an imminent
harvesting and mowing much more efficient and threat, “resulting in a reduction in the production
facilitates better irrigation coverage. of an agricultural crop caused by flooding or
compromised structural stability of commercial
agricultural lands” (M.G.L. Chapter 131 Section
STRIPPING AND REPLANTING 80A(i)(3)), can a grower apply to their local
Board of Health for an emergency trapping
A bog is stripped and replanted for the following permit. This permit is good for 10 days but may
reasons: 1 ) the bog is out of grade, requiring be extended through a joint filing between the
excessive quantities of water to flood; 2) the grower and town to the state Department of
variety is low yielding and/or prone to rot; or 3) Public Health for up t o an additional 30 da ys.
weeds such as dewberries, poison ivy, or bushes The emergency permit is for a conibear, box or
have overtaken the vines. cage-type trap.

TAILWATER RECOVERY AND UPGRADING DRAINAGE SYSTEM

BYPASS CANALS
Changes in drainage can sometimes be
Tailwater recovery is one of the most important implemented in order to reduce disease in the
management practices used by cranberry cranberry bogs. M aintaining existing ditches
growers. Basically, it is a recycling of discharge and building new lateral ditches helps to
water, thus conserving needed supplies and improve drainage. A dding crushed stones or
minimizing the risk of chemicals leaving the installing drainage tiles may be used to improve
bog. As a water conservation measure, tailwater drainage if ditches have been eliminated.
recovery is an economically sound way of
maintaining an adequate water supply (SCS
Engineering Staff 1985). Tailwater recovery
also helps to control flooding by providing
temporary storage in periods of excessive
rainfall.

163
Normal agricultural activities may fall under the jurisdiction of one or more of the
following:

Clean Water Act (Federal - Section 404; wetlands activities)

Dam Safety (M.G.L. c253 302 CMR 10.00)
Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (M.G.L. c30 301 CMR 11.00)
Open Burning Laws (310 CMR 7.07 and 527 CMR 10.22)
Pesticide Control Act (M.G.L. c132B 333 CMR 1.00-13.00)
Public Waterfront Act (M.G.L. c91 310 CMR 9.00)
Water Management Act (M.G.L. c21G 310 CMR 36.00)

Water Quality Certification

(Federal - Section 401; State jurisdiction: M.G.L. c21 314 CMR 4.00)
Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c131 310 CMR 10.04)
Zoning Act (M.G.L. c40A)

Growers should contact the CCCGA or the appropriate authority if they are unsure if an activity
falls under one or more of these regulations. Further details on many of the above regulations are
available as Grower Advisories on the CCCGA web site at
http://www.cranberries.org/growers/advisories.html.

164
 Conservation Planning for Cranberry Farming
Linda Rinta
A Conservation Plan is a tool to help growers More than the document itself, the process of
manage their lands profitably while protecting developing a farm plan is an exercise in
the natural resources on and around the farm. It reviewing one’s farming practices against a
is used to schedule improvements, document standard for resource protection and industry
conservation practices, and provide access to accepted Best Management Practices (BMPs).
USDA cost share programs.
Planning occurs through a series of site visits and
Plans are written with the assistance of a USDA landowner interviews and discussions. Planners
trained farm planner or a qualified technical follow a 9-step decision-making process
service provider certified by USDA. However, universally employed by USDA throughout the
the management decisions recorded in the plan country. These steps include: gathering locational
are made by the landowner. data, identify goals and objectives, evaluate
natural and cultural resources, investigate and
Typically a conservation plan contains the evaluate various solutions and alternatives,
following components: develop and implement a schedule of practices,
1. Maps showing the property’s location, soil and ultimately re-evaluate and adjust as needed.
information, proximity to area resource
concerns and regulated zones.
Planning is a dynamic and systematic way
2. Practice assessments identifying conditions
of constantly re-evaluating and improving
on the farm needing conservation treatment.
one’s farming practices.
3. Record of decisions indicating a
combination of conservation practices that
are planned and a schedule of USE OF FARM PLANS AS COMPLIANCE
improvements. DOCUMENTS

In addition, the following documentation of the Sometimes a F arm Plan is requested as a

planning process may also be included: demonstration of compliance for a number of
regulated and non-regulated activities. These
4. Job sheets explaining how to implement the may include water supply protection, water
practices. conservation, fisheries and wildlife concerns,
5. Conservation plan map to scale showing gravel removal permitting and wetlands projects.
where practices will be installed. In most cases, it is the participation in the
planning process that is required.
6. Environmental evaluations and cultural
resource considerations addressing the There are only four situations in which a grower
ecological and cultural resource impacts. must provide a Town Conservation Commission
a portion of their approved farm plan. These all
7. Cooperator assistance notes indicating the involve improvement practices that will impact
type of assistance provided. wetlands. These situations are: 1) Construction,
8. Other information including engineering reconstruction, or expansion of a pond o r
designs, Best Management Practices reservoir; 2) Reconstruction of an existing dike;
(BMPs) and Grower Advisories pertinent to 3) Construction of tailwater recovery; and 4)
the property. Construction of a bypass canal. See the Cape
Cod Cranberry Growers’ Association (CCCGA)
Grower Advisory on the Agriculture Regulations

165
of the Wetlands Protection Act for more SPECIAL NOTE: Some proposed new projects
information involve regulatory review and/or permits. The
(http://www.cranberries.org/growers/advisories. planning process does NOT exempt those
html). activities from local, state and federal review.

166
 Wetlands Functions of Cranberry Beds
Garrett G. Hollands
ARE COMMERCIAL CRANBERRY BEDS These areas have not been converted to uplands
WETLANDS? and when abandoned, quickly revert to natural
wetland vegetation communities. Even
This basic question must first be answered cranberry beds created from upland are Federal
before a discussion of how cranberry beds wetlands. Therefore, if an area, no matter how
function as wetlands can be conducted. In 1990, altered, is a wetland and when abandoned
the St. Paul District of the U.S. Army Corps of continues to be a wetland, it must function as a
Engineers issued a d raft entitled, “Analysis wetland.
Regarding Section 404 Review of Commercial
Cranberry Operations”. The draft analysis was
the result of long debate between the cranberry STATUTORY FUNCTIONS OF
industry, the Wisconsin Department of Natural COMMERCIAL CRANBERRY BEDS
Resources, Region 5 o f the USEPA, and the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers concerning The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act
expansion of cranberry beds into natural (MGL Chapter 131, section 40) regulates
wetlands. T his first analysis reached the activities that alter the function of wetlands.
conclusion that commercial cranberry beds were These functions or statutory interests are flood
not wetlands per the Federal definition of control, storm damage prevention, prevention of
wetlands defined in either 1987 or 1989 Federal pollution, public or private water supply, ground
delineation manuals. water supply, land containing shellfish, fisheries,
and wildlife habitat.
The draft analysis was reviewed in detail by the
cranberry industry, and a scientific report was The Regulations (310 CMR 10.00) expand upon
issued that countered many conclusions of the the Act. Wetlands are defined in the Act to
draft analysis. After considerable debate and include vegetative communities consisting of
public meetings, the Corps of Engineers found “bogs”, “coastal wetlands”, “swamps”, “wet
that commercial cranberry beds are indeed meadows”, and “marshes”. C ranberry bogs
Federal wetlands because they meet the meet the definition of “bog” in the Act. Neither
necessary field test as prescribed in the Federal the Act nor its Regulations differentiate in any
Wetland Delineation Manual. Also, commercial manner between natural and man-made
cranberry beds were determined to be “water wetlands. I t is extremely difficult to define
dependent”, that is, they must occur in “waters “natural” vs. “man-made” wetlands. Dr. John
of the USA” in order to be economically viable. Lukins of the Rhode Island School of Design, in
The Corps issued a Regulatory Guidance Letter conjunction with Interdisciplinary
(RGL) 92-2 to clarify this issue. Environmental Planning, Inc. (IEP) in the late
1970’s, attempted to define artificial vs. natural
This series of events led to the issuance of wetlands. H e found that in many regions, the
Nationwide Permit 34 (not ratified in majority of wetlands have either been
Massachusetts), which allows for limited inadvertently created by man, or so highly
expansion of cranberry beds into natural impacted by man that they no longer could be
wetlands as an activity believed not to result in considered “natural” wetlands. My personal
significant environmental damage to wetlands inventory of wetlands over the past 22 y ears,
(since the conversion) to commercial beds does which has included thousands of square miles of
not change the area to uplands. T he area Massachusetts wetlands, has shown that there
remains a wetland with modified wetland are no wetlands in Massachusetts that have not
hydrology, hydric soils, and wetland vegetation. been altered by man. “Altered” means man has

167
raised or lowered water levels, constricted low, medium, or high values can be used here,
stream flows and outlets, increased stream flow, as even a “low” value adds up to be a collective
changed the vegetative community, etc. large value. To prove that a wetland has any one
of the eight interests, all one has to do is to
Wetlands are dynamic features of the landscape. prove that the wetland has the necessary “parts”
What you see today most probably is not what or elements to give rise to that value. The basic
was there 100 y ears ago, and will not be the general parts of a wetland are plants, soils,
same 100 years into the future. The primary hydrology, and topography. O ne can view a
cause of these dynamics is man’s land use wetland similar to an automobile. A ll
practices. I n a rapidly growing region such as automobiles, when they contain the necessary
southern New England, urbanization of the working parts, provide transportation, which is
uplands, even when wetlands are avoided, their primary function. S ome do s o with basic
results in major impacts to the wetlands. and cheap parts, others do so with great expense
and luxury, but they all provide the function of
Thus, if only “natural” wetlands were regulated, transportation. The increased complexity of an
few of our valuable wetlands would fall under auto only adds to its ability to provide other
that definition. Some special interest groups functions as well as transportation.
might take advantage of the term, “artificial”
wetlands, resulting in the destruction of much of The use of wetland parts to define function and
the Commonwealth’s wetlands. significance is relatively simple. L et’s take a
typical cranberry bog as an example. Although
The regulations (310 CMR 10.00) presume that a typical cranberry bog is difficult to define as
all wetlands have one or more of the eight they occur in a great variety of hydrologic
statutory interests. The Regulations define settings, for illustrative purposes, the following
wetlands as: Wetland resource Areas; Land description is used:
Under Water Ways or Water Bodies, Banks,
Bordering Vegetated Wetlands, and Land
Subject to Flooding. M ost cranberry bogs The bog was created from a wood
contain all of these wetland resource areas. The swamp. The bog is a groundwater discharge
Regulation in 310 C MR 10.54 through 10.57 wetland, having an inflowing stream, bog
ditches, and an outlet stream. The bog is
define these Resource Areas and the functions
surrounded by dikes and the outlet is
that they are presumed to have. O nly those structured to include flash boards. The
wetlands that are not significant for any of the cranberry plants grow as a thick
eight functions are not subject to the monoculture on sandy soils overlying
performance standards, nor worthy of protection. organic wetlands soils.
The person desiring to destroy wetland resource
areas must prove with credible evidence that the
wetlands in question have no f unction, that is, Applying the Regulations, we find that the bog
are not significant for any of the eight values. contains Land Under a Waterway (stream),
This is a formidable task. Banks (ditch banks), Bordering Vegetated
Wetland (cranberry bog) and Bordering Land
The regulations in 310 C MR 10.04 D efinitions Subject to Flooding (100-year flood plain). This
states that Significant means “plays a r ole”. A bog is presumed to be significant for all
resource area is significant to an interest statutory values except Land Containing
identified in the Act when it plays a role in the Shellfish. If we test these presumptions with the
provision or protection, as appropriate, of that following examples, we find the following:
interest. The Regulations do not say “play a
small role”; the regulations say “plays a role”. Flood Control. T he topography and the outlet
This means any role, no matter how small. structure create a volume of water that is stored
None of the wetlands assessment methods in the wetland up to the 100-year flood stage.
presently available that rate wetlands as having The bog is part of a stream system, receiving

168
and storing inflowing waters, and metering its were not required because a wetland that
release downstream through the outlet. It has was being destroyed was already degraded
flood control value since it has the necessary or polluted. While it would be possible to
parts and a volume can be computed. If the bog rank wetlands and treat those of ‘medium’
pollution prevention value as subject to less
is shown on a FIRM flood plain map as A or V
restriction than those of ‘high’ value, that is
zone, there is no doubt it has flood control value. not the regulatory framework which has
In the Final Decision of the David Mann Case been adopted in Massachusetts. Rather, the
(DEQE wetland File 57-147), the DEQE New regulations, codifying prior
(Department of Environmental Quality and Departmental policy, have made it clear that
Engineering) found that the Mann bogs did the functions performed by Bordering
contain a f lood storage of an average elevation Vegetated Wetlands are subject to protection
of 2.3 i nches for the 100-year flood. T his unless they are wholly without significance
volume of water was required to be compensated to the interest of the Act.
for by the Department of Public Works (DPW)
I therefore conclude that wetlands
proposed detention basin.
replication must be required in this case
because of the destruction of a wetland with
Prevention of Pollution. The wetland contains pollution-prevention capacity. Since I have
wetland plants and soils capable of removing not found that any of the unique
nutrients, heavy metals and other contaminants characteristics of cranberry bogs make a
from inflowing water. The inflowing water is particular contribution to pollution
periodically spread over the plants and soils prevention, and since I have concluded that
allowing interaction of water, plants, and soil to the protectable recharge and flood control
remove contaminants. Thus, since the parts function of the taken bogs are adequately
occur and are allowed to interact (function), accounted for by other means, I find no
basis for requiring that the replicated
significance is proven.
wetland be in the form of a cranberry bog.
Again, in the Mann case, the DEQE found since Accordingly, the Final Order of Conditions
wetlands plants and soils occurred in the bogs, accompanying this decision requires the
they were significant for prevention of pollution. establishment of a nine-acre area of shallow
The DEQE position in the Superseding Order of marsh to replace the bog area being
Conditions was that the bogs were not destroyed.”
significant since they did not “respond to natural
conditions” as do “naturally occurring”
wetlands, and that pesticides and fertilizers were Other Statutory Interests. S pecific bogs may
placed into the bog. The Final Order disagreed exist that qualify as being significant for the
with this position. The following is quoted from other interests: P ublic and Private Water
Pages 22 and 23 of the Final Order: Supply, Storm Damage Prevention, Fisheries,
and Wildlife Habitat. One only needs to gather
the data to show that the wetland has the
“I reach this conclusion for two related necessary parts and that these parts occur in such
reasons. F irst, I note that there is no a manner to function for a given interest. The
evidence suggesting that the pollution Mann Case shows in the example of “Prevention
attenuation capacity of the taken bogs has in of Pollution” that any function, any role, no
any sense been ‘used up’ by the role that it matter how small, is protectable.
may have played in taking up agricultural
chemicals. Second, while Mr. Hartley has
remarked in this testimony that he was not In summary, cranberry bogs have functions that
aware of the Department ever requiring are significant to the statutory interest of the Act.
replication of a cranberry bog, it is also true Any alteration of a bog that does not meet 310
that it has not been the Department’s policy, CMR 10.54-57 is not permitted unless all of the
under either the Old or the New regulations, presumptions of significance can be overturned
to conclude that compensatory measures (likely to be impossible). In light of the Mann

169
Case, it is probable that all cranberry bogs are This article is reprinted in its entirety from, Massachusetts
significant for “Prevention of Pollution” value. Cranberry Production-An Information Guide. 1993.
Clark, W.F. and H.A. Sandler, eds. Univ. of Mass. Ext.
Thus, destruction of existing bogs requires Publ., pp. 30-32.
replication in the form of new wetlands of equal
size to the area destroyed. Editor's note: ENSR was formerly known as
Interdisciplinary Environmental Planning (IEP), Inc., of
Sandwich, MA 02563.

170
 Wildlife Utilization on Commercial Cranberry Wetlands
Systems
Steven Ellsworth and Donald Schall
Commercial cranberry bogs were created in systems (Massachusetts Wildlife Survey 1997).
moist lowlands and scrub/forested wetlands for Overall, species diversity was closely tied to the
over 150 years. These natural wetland systems number and variety of habitats found within the
were utilized by cranberry growers because of cranberry wetland system. During the field
readily available water sources, low pH and high investigations, 11 species of mammals, 65
iron soils with a base of peat. These are the species of birds, 6 species of reptiles, 6 species
basic requirements for various cranberry of amphibians, and 11 species of fish were
cultivation practices. In the case of some of the recorded. Species common to New England
earliest beds, the presence of natural wild were well represented, but several of the
cranberry vines in the vegetative community region’s wildlife species listed as “threatened”
encouraged their conversion to commercial or “endangered” by the Commonwealth were
cranberry bogs. After 1986, any new cranberry also observed.
bed establishment needs to be conducted in
upland soils, replicating a traditional wetland
cranberry bog environment as much as possible.

Despite the long history of cranberry cultivation

and the number of acres under cultivation, the
ecology of commercial cranberry wetland
systems, and in particular, their value to wildlife
is only recently being inventoried and studied.
A baseline ecological assessment of three
commercial cranberry wetland systems in
eastern Massachusetts was conducted by
Interdisciplinary Environmental Planning (IEP),
Inc., in the late Spring of 1990 with the primary
focus being the wildlife habitat value and Fig. 1. Osprey building a nest atop a pole erected
wildlife utilization. next to a cranberry bog. Photo courtesy J. Mason.

Our studies of wildlife utilization of cranberry

wetland systems in eastern Massachusetts From an agricultural viewpoint, cranberry beds
incorporated several wildlife sampling methods are monocultures of the large-fruited cranberry
such as transect bird surveys, mist net bird (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait). A s such, the
surveys, small mammal trappings, and fish and diversity of plants life forms (e.g., herbs, shrubs,
macroinvertebrate surveys to collect information trees), which provide vertical structural diversity
on the species composition of the wildlife in a plant community, is limited on cranberry
communities that utilized these systems. T he beds. I ncreased structural diversity correlates
field inspections also generated many interesting closely with higher wildlife diversity and
field observations. utilization. Mammalian species found to utilize
active cranberry beds in the study areas include
The field surveys documented a d iversity of white-tailed deer, red fox, and meadow voles.
wildlife on cranberry wetland systems that Trapping data documented inhabitation of the
compared favorably to that reported in the cranberry beds by meadow voles. However,
literature for certain types of natural wetland trapping success was greater in adjacent

171
disturbed areas and adjacent wetlands. A ctive number of occasions. Bobwhite quail were also
beds were also utilized by waterfowl (ducks and frequently observed. Among the more common
geese) and raptors (hawks and owls). song birds observed in these habitats were gray
Shorebirds and herons fed along the banks of the catbird, Northern mockingbird, brown thrasher,
irrigation ditches, while swallows and blue-winged and prairie warblers, Northern
flycatchers hunted for insects above the vines. cardinals, rufous-sided towhees, and song
sparrows. S napping turtles and painted turtles,
Although the cranberry beds themselves appear which must leave aquatic habitats to deposit
to be utilized by a relatively low number of their eggs in open, sandy areas were observed
species, adjacent managed habitats such as depositing eggs in sandy road banks and sand
reservoirs, drainage channels, irrigation ditches, piles in the study areas. Open sand banks, which
low brush communities, and disturbed areas are maintained as p art of the cranberry
provide breeding areas, cover habitats, and operation, create habitat for nesting turtles.
feeding sites for many additional species. T he
water supply systems and land use management The diversity and abundance of wildlife species
practices are an integral part of the operation of utilizing both wetland and upland habitats in the
a cranberry bog, and they contribute to the study areas were, in all probability, increased by
overall diversity of the wetland system. their proximity to the reservoirs, cranberry beds,
and disturbed areas of the cranberry operations.
Construction and maintenance of cranberry This edge effect contributed to ecological
wetland systems creates some excellent wildlife diversity. T he value of habitats, particularly
habitats such as reservoirs, ponds, and transition forested habitats, was improved for most
zones between adjacent uplands and undisturbed wildlife species when they were adjacent to open
wetlands. The reservoirs often provide habitat areas.
for the more aquatic avian species such as
double-breasted cormorant, great blue heron, Although wildlife diversity is relatively low in
green-backed heron, black-crowned night heron, the cranberry beds, diversity within the overall
mute swan, Canada goose, mallard, black duck, system is high, when compensation from the
wood chuck, osprey, and belted kingfisher, other habitats is taken into consideration. The
where none previously existed. P ermanent study was conducted during a brief 16-day
water bodies are utilized by various mammals, period in May-June, 1990. If a longer study were
such as w hite-tailed deer, raccoons, and conducted, the number of species that actually
muskrats, as well as providing excellent habitat used these wetland systems over the course of an
for turtles, frogs, and fish. T he reservoir edge entire year would be increased significantly.
was particularly attractive as h abitat for a
number of avian species. S ome of the more
commonly observed species in this reservoir This article is reprinted in its entirety from, Massachusetts
edge habitat were Eastern kingbird, gray catbird, Cranberry Production-An Information Guide. 1993.
Clark, W.F. and H.A. Sandler, eds. Univ. of Mass. Ext.
yellow warbler, common yellowthroat, red- Publ., pp. 33-34.
winged blackbird, and common grackle.
Editor's note: The first paragraph was edited to note the
Herbaceous and scrub/shrub areas adjacent to difference between traditional wetlands bogs and new
production planted in upland soils. ENSR was formerly
the cranberry beds, in general, had high known as Interdisciplinary Environmental Planning (IEP),
productivity (abundance). C ottontail rabbit, Inc., of Sandwich, MA 02563.
woodchuck, white-footed mouse, and meadow
vole are mammal species that commonly used
these habitats. White-tailed deer and red fox
also used them. R ed-shouldered and red-tailed
hawks were seen foraging over these areas on a

172
 Directory of Agencies

CAPE COD CRANBERRY GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION (508) 759-1041

www.cranberries.org

CRANBERRY MARKETING COMMITTEE (508) 291-1510

www.uscranberries.com

CRANBERRY INSTITUTE (508) 759-6855

www.cranberryinstitute.org

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

Environmental issues (617) 626-1554
Coastal zone management www.mass.gov/czm (617) 626-1200
Conservation and Recreation www.mass.gov/dcr (617) 626-1250

MA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (DEP) (508) 946-2700

www.mass.gov/dep (617) 292-5500
Questions concerning the Water Management Act (508) 946-2816
Reporting pesticide spills (888) 304-1133
Questions on hazardous material management or waste disposal (508) 946-2817
Questions regarding wetlands laws in Massachusetts (617) 292-5695
(508) 946-2800

MA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES (MDAR) (617) 626-1700

www.mass.gov/agr/ FAX: (617) 626-1850
Pesticide licenses and certification (617) 626-1776
Water quality (617) 626-1773

NATIONAL PESTICIDE TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK (800) 858-7378

www.npic.orst.edu (Questions concerning health effects of pesticides)

RESOURCE CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT (508) 295-1317

(Community assistance, land water and energy conservation)
www.pilgrimrcd.org

SOUTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL PARTNERSHIP

(SEMAP) (508) 295-2212 x50
(Marketing, farm transfer assistance)
www.umassd.edu/semap; www.semaponline.org

173
SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICTS
(Conservation farm planning, conservation plantings)
Barnstable County (Cape Cod Conservation District) www.capecodcd.org (508) 771-8757
Bristol County www.bristolcd.org (508) 669-6621
Plymouth County www.plymouth.ma.nacdnet.org (508) 295-5495
Norfolk County www.walpole.ma.us/enorfolkcountycon.htm (508) 668-0995

UMASS CRANBERRY STATION (508) 295-2212

www.umass.edu/cranberry

UMASS EXTENSION PESTICIDE EDUCATION OFFICE (413) 545-1044

www.umass.edu/pested
(Questions concerning safety and pesticide training)

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, New England District (800) 362-4367

www.nae.usace.army.mil
(Questions concerning wetlands permits)

USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE

(Technical assistance; conservation plans and designs)
Barnstable County www.ma.nrcs.usda.gov (508) 771-6476
Plymouth County www.ma.nrcs.usda.gov (508) 295-5151

174
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187
 Index
2 application methods
chemicals, 153
2 (ee) permits, 152 chemigation, 57
24(c) supplemental labels, 88, 152 fertilizers, 137
percentages, 154
A water, 56
above-ground biomass distribution, 130 weed management, 98
abundance of wildlife, 172 applicator license, 15, 152
acetycholinesterase inhibitors, 111 automated irrigation, 56
acids, 22, 34 Avaunt, 112
Acleris minuta, 116
acre-feet B
estimated water use, 39 Bacillus thuringiensis, 88, 112
threshold volume, 40 backpack sprayers, 98
water storage, 66 barge sanding, 17
acres treated with pesticides, 153 barrels, 1, 2, 22, 25
Acrobasis vaccinii, 113 production potential, 142
Actara, 87 Basamid, 26
action thresholds, 87, 107 base temperature, 37, 38
cranberry fruitworm, 114 Beckwith, 75
for insect pests, 109 bee hive strength, 146
weeds, 95 beekeepers, 146
ADBAC, 89 bees
adsorption, pesticides, 157 hives on farms, 14
aerial applications, 137, 153 number needed, 147
sign posting, 149 beneficial insects, 86, 88, 111
air masses, 63 beneficial nematodes, 87, 88, 112
alfalfa leafcutting bees, 146 Bergman, 76
algal blooms, 138 berry size, 29
alkalinity, 12 cranberry fruitworm, 114
alpine plants, 67 pollen sources, 142
Alternaria destrucens, 89, 99 Best Management Practices, 165
alternating layers, 6, 11, 158 bog construction, 155
ammonium nitrogen, 12, 92, 128 fertilizers, 138
Amphipyra pyramidoides, 117 biochemical markers, 79
Anomala orientalis, 121 biological control, 85, 88, 92, 99, 112
anthocyanin, 2, 22 biological fungicides, 89
breeding for, 75, 77 Biosafe-N, 88
Crimson Queen, 77 Black Veil, 80
fruit maturity, 34 black vine weevil, 112, 122
light penetration, 19, 20 black-headed fireworm, 89, 116
ripening, 34 blast, 31
Anthonomus musculus, 112 blossom blast infection, 103
anti-adhesion, 22 blueberry, 72, 125, 126, 146
antioxidants, 22 blunt-nosed leafhopper, 73, 74, 106
antitranspirants, 34 bog iron, 1
Apis mellifera, 145

188
bog ore, 9 fall floods, 71, 97
bog soil, 6, 11, 31 fruit composition, 34, 127, 136
hibernaculum, 114 fruit development, 4, 30, 130
inspect for insects, 119 late water, 29, 69
leaching of nutrients, 138 pollinators, 141
P availability, 126 various floods, 90, 111
retention of pesticides, 156 winter flood, 67
tensiometer reading, 55 carnauba wax, 89
bog types, 53 Casoron, 18, 87, 98
Bombus impatiens, 143 cation exchange capacity, 12, 125
bordering vegetated wetlands, 168 certification of vines, lack of, 79
botanical descriptions, 3 chemical control, 97
brambles, 97, 122 summary use data, 87
Bravo, 87 chemical residues, 12, 86, 151
breeding program, 143 chemigation, 14, 42, 87, 153
Rutgers University, 27, 77 acres treated, 154
USDA, 74 diagram, 57
Washington State, 76 herbicides, 98
Brix, 34, 77 safeguards, 44, 59
brown spanworm, 118 sign posting, 149
brush removal, 159 terminology, 58
buds, 4 chilling
after late water floods, 68 bud break, 38
flower, 29 loss of, 68
formation of floral, 136 model, 37
frost tolerance, 60 units, 37
protecting, 13 chloride sensitivity, 134
susceptible to disease, 105 chlorothalonil, 87
bulk containers, 23, 25 Chrysoteuchia topiaria, 119
bullbrier, 97 cleaning reservoirs, 159
bumble bees, 14, 143, 145 clean-up floods, 70
burlap clearing land, 160
soil stabilization, 40 coefficient of uniformity, 42, 44, 58, 153
burning, 154, 159, 164 Colaspis costipennis, 121
buzz pollination, 143 cold injury, 31, 60, 66
bypass canals, 5, 7, 39, 163, 165 cold tolerance, 60, 66
Colletotrichum
C biocontrol agent, 89, 99
pathogens, 105
calcium, 125, 127 colonies of bees needed, 147
calcium-boron, 92, 127 colony size of bees, 146
Callisto, 97 color development, 20, 22, 34
canopy effect of lush growth, 131
architecture, 19, 21 fall frost tolerance, 62
environment, 16, 19, 91 maneb and mancozeb, 34
capillary action, 53 commercial applicator certification, 152
carbamates, 111 commercial applicator license, 152
carbaryl, 87 common greenbrier, 97
carbohydrates Confirm, 111
demand in cold temperatures, 66 conservation credits, 40
depletion, 67 conservation plan, 165

189
construction of buildings, 160 susceptible to false blossom, 73, 74
consumptive use of water, 39, 40 susceptible to fruit rot, 103
contracts with beekeepers, 147 cultural controls, 90, 98, 111
copper, 127 fruit rot, 103
Coptodisca negligens, 123 IPM, 92
cranberry blossomworm, 117 pest management, 91
cranberry bogs weed management, 98
function as wetlands, 167 cultural practices
cranberry flowers IPM, 85
diagram, 75, 141 weather and production, 29, 30
pollinators, 143 curculionid soil weevils, 122
structure, 142 cutworms, 116
cranberry fruitworm
fall floods, 71 D
insect profile, 113
late water, 68, 111 dams, 40, 164
management, fruit inspection, 114 Darlington picker, 23
natural enemies of, 89 Dasineura oxycoccana, 123
pheromone traps, 110 daytime melting of ice, 68
cranberry girdler, 16, 71, 89, 119 dealers license, 152
cranberry pollen, 141, 143, 147 decomposition
cranberry root grub, 120 microbial, 158
cranberry tipworm, 123 organic matter, 7, 16, 127
cranberry weevil, 112 decontaminant foam, 89
cranberry white grub, 121 delayed effect of fertilizers, 131
craneberry, 4 Demoranville, 78
Crimson Queen, 77 desiccation, 34
crisis exemptions, 88, 151 Devrinol, 18, 26, 98
crop records, 29 dew point, 60, 63, 101
crop statistics, 2 Diazinon, 111
crop water stress index, 54 dichlobenil, 87
crosses, 74, 78 dieback
anthocyanin content, 75 insect damage, 122
initial, breeding, 74, 77 Phytophthora, 104
with blueberry, 72 upright, 102
cross-pollination, 4, 142 dikes, 5, 40, 161
Crowley, 77 direct fruit pests, 86, 113, 115
cryolite bait, 89 discharge
crysomelid soil insects, 121 nutrients, 70, 92, 139, 140
cultivars particulates, 138
acreage, 73 water, 40, 90, 163, 168
changes in, 79 disease triangle, 100
description table, 81 dissipation pathways, 157
fertilizer requirements, 129 ditch cleaning, 14, 160
hybrid, 75, 125 diversity of wildlife, 171
nectar, 143 DNA fingerprinting, 78, 80
popular, 72 dodder, 86, 96
resistance to upright dieback, 104 biological control, 89, 99
selection for susceptibility, 74 control stategies, 96
size and cranberry fruitworm, 114 herbicides, 98
susceptible to fairy ring, 105 household products, 89

190
 scouting, 86 wet conditions, 32, 160
suppression with sand, 16, 18, 91, 99
zero tolerance, 95 F
dormancy, 38, 128, 162
pathogens, 100, 106 fairy ring, 53, 105
dormant color, buds, 60 fall floods, 71, 90, 111
drainage, 8, 11, 28, 39 carbohydrate depletion, 71, 97
fertilizer efficiency, 137 fall frost
importance of, 41 protection, 14
normal ag practices, 163 tolerance, 61
pest management, 91, 102 tolerance table, 62
pesticides, 156 false armyworm, 117
Phytophthora root rot, 104 false blossom, 73, 80, 106
dredging reservoirs, 159 farm features, 5
drought, 33 farm plan, 165
during harvest, 32 farm receipts, 1
insect damage, 119 federal restricted use pesticides
irrigation, 8 sign posting, 149
monitoring water status, 54 fence construction, 161
physiological, 66 fertigation, 137
similar to winterkill, 15 fertilizer
upright dieback, 104 Best Management Practices, 138
upright diseases favored by, 101 fertilizers, 13
dry bulb, 63 application, 160
dry harvesting, 20, 22, 161 application timing, 136
dry sanding, 14, 17 cranberries, 127
fruit quality, 34
late water, 69
E new plantings, 28
EBDC fungicides, 87 nutrient management, 92
economic injury level, 87 other crops, 126
economic threshold, 87 stressed vines, 104
Ematurga amitaria, 118 summary of recommmendations, 129
environmental considerations use decisions, 135
fertilizers, 130, 137 field rot, 103
pesticide labeling, 152 field use of managed bees, 147
Epiglaea apiata, 117 FIFRA Section 2 (ee), 152
equipment maintenance, 161 fireworms, 116
Ericaceae, 3, 125 fish hydrolysate, 92
establishment, 26, 103, 126, 132 flags, 6
estimated water use, 39 flood irrigation, 71
Euscelis striatulus, 73 flooding
Eutrapela clemataria, 118 bloom, 160
evaporation, chemicals, 158 bogs functioning as wetlands, 168
evaporative demand, 53, 54 carbohydrate reserves, 70
evapotranspiration, 39 duration, 70, 90
excessive frost protection, 64, 71
fertilization, 101, 106 land subject to, 168
nitrogen, 35, 139 loss of tolerance, 61
rainfall, 101, 163 nutrient release, 139
vine growth, 102 pest management, 70, 97, 120, 122

191
 phosphorus availability, 137 fruit weight, 34
phosphorus release, 132, 139 equations, 32
purposes, 90 fumigation, 26
release, 160 Furford harvester, 18, 20, 23
risk, 90 future of IPM, 93
Sparganothis, 90
spring flash, 70 G
weed mangement, 99
winter, 15, 60 gate construction, 161
flower buds, 31, 37 genetic stock, 79
development, 21 geotextile, 40
impact on yield, 29 Gephardt drop spreader, 99, 153
initiation and pruning, 18 germplasm, 76, 77, 78
percent out-of-bloom, 114 germplasm repository, 78
photograph, 142 Gibbera leaf spot, 106
pruning, 20 glacial till, 7, 9, 11
flowers, 4 glaucous greenbrier, 97
blast, 31, 103 Good Laboratory Practices, 151
diagram, 75 great cranberry spanworm, 118
late water, 68 green spanworm, 118
per acre, 142 ground rigs, 137, 153
per upright, 141 ground-penetrating radar, 8
pollination, 141 Groundwater Protection List, 150
umbrella bloom, 64 Groundwater Protection Regulations, 149
winter injury, 66 growing degree days, 34, 38
flow-through beds, 5, 7 Grygleski, 78
flumes, 5, 40, 161, 163 gypsy moth, 117
foliar fertilizers, 92, 137
Franklin, 76 H
fresh market, 14, 22, 24, 33 habitat value, 171
frost hail, 33
floods, 71 half-life, 156
forecasting, 62 hand scoops, 22
injury, 18, 63, 68 hand-weeding, 95, 98, 99
protection, 13, 42, 161 hardpan, 7, 8, 9, 11, 53
protection options, 64 harvest, 14, 22
tolerance, color development, 62 flood recommendations, 70
tolerance, vines and fruit, 61 floods, 69, 111
fruit composition, 34, 127, 136 normal ag practices, 161
fruit development, 4, 22, 29, 32, 38 pumps, 25
resources limiting, 130 harvesters
fruit filling, 130 Darlington Picker, 23
fruit retention, 32, 33 Furford, 23
fruit rot, 16, 21, 33, 35, 86 Ruby Slipper, 25
fungicides, 103 haustoria, 96
high nitrogen, 134 hazardous waste, 154
late water, 68 heads
pruning, 162 chemigation, 153
fruit rot pathogens, 102 definitions, 57
fruit set and size, 142 spacing, 43
fruit sizing, 31, 129

192
health benefits, 22 J
heat of fusion, 64
heat stress, 104 jobs, 1
high uniformity nozzles, 44
hockey stick applicator, 98 K
holding late water, 68
keeping quality forecast, 36, 87
honey bees, 14, 145
Kerb, 87
Hoplia equina, 121
kettle holes, 1, 7, 8
household cleaners, 89
knife rakes, 20
humidity, 31
disease management, 101
humped green fruitworm, 117 L
hybrid cultivars, 75 laser leveling, 27
frost tolerance, 61 late water floods, 13, 61, 68, 69, 97
hydrosanding, 17 benefits of, 69
HyRed, 77 bloom, 68
frost injury, 61
I holding, 68
insect management, 111
ice sanding, 14, 17 negative factors, 69
impervious layer, 7, 8, 155
organic producers, 69
impounding water, 5, 40, 66, 158
laterals, 42, 59
indoxacarb, 112
layering, 11, 54, 155
injection time, 58
leaching, 157
insect growth regulators, 111 nutrients, 138
insect life stages, 108
leaf drop, 18, 67
integrated pest management, 85 leaf spots, 101, 106
acres managed, 86
leaf tissue
defined, 87, 107
nutrient concentrations, 125
environmental benefits, 86 leaf wetness, 91, 101
future, 93
leafcutting bees, 144, 146
history, 85 leafhoppers, 73, 106
strategies, 107
leafminers, 123
typical program, 86
Lichnanthe vulpina, 120
weeds vs. insects, 95 light limitation, 18, 67
Zone II, 150
light penetration, 19, 22, 67
integrated weed management, 94 Lorsban, 111
interim wellhead protection area, 150
loss of chilling hours, 68
intermittent sprinkling, 65
low fertilizer needs, 126
Intrepid, 111
lowbush blueberry, 3, 144, 147
IR-4 Project, 151
lush growth, 107, 131
iron, 127, 132 Lymantria dispar, 117
iron ore, 1, 5, 155
iron sulfate, 18
irrigation, 13, 42 M
automation, 56 magnesium, 127
current recommendations, 53 maintenance of structures, 160, 161
pressure, 43 major diseases, 100
Itame sulphurea, 118 managed bees, 144, 147
manganese, 41, 127, 137
Material Safety Data Sheets, 154

193
mating disruption, 89, 111 fertilizer recommendations, 129
measuring water stress, 54 form, 129
mechanical pruning, 16, 18 rate and timing, 130
metamorphosis, 108 non-consumptive use of water, 39, 40
microbial decomposition, pesticides, 158 nonstructural carbohydrates, 34, 90
microbial disruptors, 112 normal ag practices
mineral elements, 34, 127, 130 list of regulations, 164
mineral soils, 9, 11, 125 nozzles, 42, 44
diagram, 10 nutrient
mineralization, 12, 127 concentrations, 125
minor diseases, 100, 106 decision-making, 136
minor elements, 127 management, 91, 92
minor use pesticide registration, 151 NPK recommendations, 126
mites, 68 poor soils, 125
mongrel vines, 26, 79, 80 recycling, 136
monitoring release, 128, 139
oxygen levels, 15, 68 removal, 125
pheromone traps, 89 uptake, 131
sweep nets, 87, 108
temperatures, 64 O
water levels, 54, 56
mowing, 162 odors, 156
dikes and ditches, 40 Oligonychus ilicis, 122
uplands, 162 open space, 1
vines, 16, 21 Operophtera brumata, 119
weeds on bog, 86 organic
Mullica Queen, 77 acids, 67
mycorrhizae, 4, 129, 130 confining layer, 9, 10
fertilizers, 92, 130
matter, 3, 11, 125, 127, 155
N producers, 69
native bees, 143 organophosphates, 85, 111
encouraging, 144 oriental beetle, 121
natural bogs, 8 Orthene, 111
natural enemies, 89, 107, 112, 115 Otiorhynchus ovatus, 122
nectar, 141 Otiorhynchus sulcatus, 122
nectar production, 143 out-of-bloom, 32, 86
neonicotinoids, 112 outwash channels, 7, 8
Nepticulid sp., 123 overwintering, 71, 101, 105, 108
nest boxes for bees, 144 Oxycoccus, 3
new chemistries of pesticides, 59 oxygen deficiency, 15, 30, 66
new plantings, 18, 28
cost-effective plan, 91 P
fertilizer, 28, 126
fruit rot, 103 packing houses, 24
irrigation, 28, 53 parasites, 89
traditional approach, 26 parasitoids, 89, 112
winter injury, 66 payroll, 1
nitrate nitrogen, 129, 130, 139 peak nutrient demand, 130
nitrification, 128 peat-based bogs, 7, 8
nitrogen, 92, 127 percent out-of-bloom, 114

194
perched water table, 9, 155 potassium, 134
permits preemergence herbicides, 87, 98, 153
water use, 40 preventing frost injury, 63
pest management primary recharge area, 150
benefits, 17 priority system for weeds, 96
drainage, 91 private certification, 152
flooding, 66, 70, 90 proanthocyanidins, 22
IPM, 85 processed market, 22
options, 87 production efficiency, 2
organic, 69 production statistics, 1
vine age, 91 pronamide, 87
pesticide proper protective equipment, 59
applications, 14, 152, 160 Protoventuria leaf spot, 106
industry use patterns, 87 pruning, 18
licenses, 15, 152 knife rakes, 20
persistence, 156 machines, 20
plant uptake, 157 mechanical, 16, 18
posting signs, 149 normal ag practices, 162
regulations, 15 pest management, 91
residues, 12, 86, 151 pros and cons, 21
storage and disposal, 154 Pseudomonas syringae, 89
use around bees, 148 public wells, 150
Pesticide Bureau, 15 pumps, 5, 25, 57, 69
pH, 11, 127, 128, 132 houses, 15, 160
pheromone release systems, 111 maintenance, 161
pheromone traps, 14, 89, 110 Pyrenobotrys leaf spots, 106
phosphorus, 92, 132
flood discharge waters, 140 R
forms and rates, 133
timing of applications, 133 radiational cooling, 60, 63
photodecomposition, 158 rainfall
Phyllophaga anxia, 121 disease management, 101
physiological drought, 66 effect on crop, 32
physiological rot, 103 frost events, 63
Phytophthora root rot, 41, 53, 103 keeping quality, 36
phytoplasma, 73, 80, 106 pesticide movement, 157
Pilgrim, 76 RAPD technology, 79
planting medium, 10 recapture of water, 39, 70
planting new vines, 13 reconstruction of an existing dike, 165
poison ivy, 97 red leaf spot, 106
pollen, 4 red-headed flea beetle, 123
abundance in cranberry, 143 regulating water flow, 162
tetrads, 142 regulations
pollination state and federal, 164
contracts, 146, 147 removal of water under ice, 67
hive strength, 146 renovation, 26, 91
normal ag practice, 162 considerations, 28
pond construction, 162, 165 nutrient recommendations, 126
population growth, 93 upland soils, 9, 10
pop-up heads, 6, 43, 45, 161 replanting bogs, 163
postemergence herbicides, 87, 98, 153 reservoirs, 40, 66, 159

195
restricted use pesticides harvest, 69
sign posting, 149 sign posting, 15, 149
Rhopobota naevana, 116 silverleaf sawbrier, 97
ringspot, 106 sinks for phosphorus, 140
rinse time, 57 site preparation, 27
road maintenance, 162 SLN, 88
root growth, 18 slow-release fertilizers, 92, 130
rooted plugs, 27 Smilax sp., 97
rooting zone, 125 Smolder, 89, 99
rose bloom, 106 snow cover, 101
Roundup wipes, 97 soil
Rubus sp., 97 adsorption and pesticides, 156
chemistry, 12, 132, 139
S core profile, 11
insects, 119
salt contamination, 134 nitrogen, 127
sand, 28 temperature and nutrient release, 128
amount, 17 tests, 135
new plantings, 28 weevils, 122
particle size, 17 soil moisture, 33, 55
sanding, 91 excessive, 53, 101
dodder suppression, 18, 91, 99 iron and manganese, 137
herbicide longevity, 91 nutrient availability, 137
herbicide use, 18 pesticides, 156
insect management, 111 soil texture, 155
methods of application, 14, 17 soil type
nonuniformity, 17 interaction with phosphorus, 133
normal ag practices, 162 soil-water monitoring, 56
pest management, 91 solubility, pesticides, 156
Phytophthora root rot, 104 source-to-sink, 130
pros and cons, 18 southern red mite, 122
uniform layers, 91 spanworms, 118
Sandy Neck dunes, 8 Sparganothis fruitworm, 89, 115
sanitation, 91 special local needs, 88
scald, 31, 103 specialty crop pesticide registration, 151
forecast, 35 specific exemptions, 88, 151
scarab beetles, 120 spinosyns, 111
scheduling irrigation, 53 split fertilizer applications, 92, 131, 137
scouting, 14 spray applications
insects, 108 acres, by type, 154
new plantings, 28 sprayable pheromone, 90
UMass program, 85 spring caterpillars, 68
weeds, 98 spring flash floods, 70
Section 18 permits, 88, 151 black-headed fireworm, 13, 90
seed number, 33 dodder, 13, 90
seeds per berry, 142 spring frost
self-fertile, 4, 141, 142 protection, 13
Sevin, 87 tolerance, 60
sex pheromones, 89, 110 tolerance table, 61
shallow floods sprinkler systems, 6, 31, 42
frost protection, 65 design pattern, 59

196
 frost protection, 64 tissue tests, 135
heads, 43 transpiration, 35, 54, 101
maintenance, 91 transpirational loss, 34
new, 44 trapping, 163
normal ag practices, 161 wildlife data, 171
part- and full-circle heads, 44 traps
traditional, 43 pheromone, 90, 110
squaring-off bogs, 163 trash floods, 70
stabilization fabric, 40 travel time, 57
Steinernema carpocapsae, 88 Trichogramma sp., 89
sterilizing equiprment triple superphosphate, 133
Phytophthora root rot, 104
Stevens, 75 U
stocking rate of bees, 147
stomach ulcers, proanthocyanidins, 22 umbrella bloom, 64
storage quality, 25 unrooted cuttings, 18, 27
storage rot, 24, 103 upright dieback, 104
straightbore nozzles, 44 causal agents, 105
straightening edges, 163 upright length and density, 135
stratification, 11, 155 urea, 106, 130
strawberry root weevil, 122 urinary tract infection, 22
striped colaspis, 121
stripping bogs, 163 V
structural carbohydrates, 22 Vaccinium angustifolium, 146
sub-irrigation, 33, 56 Vaccinium corymbosum, 72
sulfur, 127 Vaccinium darrowi, 72
summer floods, 70 Vaccinium macrocarpon, 3
insect management, 90, 111 Vaccinium oxycoccus, 3, 72, 78
sunshine, 36 Vaccinium vitis-idaea, 3
disease management, 102 Vapam, 26
sweep netting, 14, 85, 108 vegetated embankments, 40
Systena frontalis, 123 vibratile pollination, 143
vinegar, 89
T virus, 102, 106
tailwater recovery, 5, 39, 40 volunteer seedlings, 79
farm plan, compliance, 165
fertilizer BMP, 138, 139 W
normal ag practices, 163 wash-off time, 57, 58, 153
temperature, 30, 36 water
disease management, 100 confining layer, 9, 11
flood waters, 70 control structures, 5, 40
nitrogen applications, 138 energy status, 54, 55
nitrogen release, 127 harvesting, 22, 24, 69
sanded beds, 17 irrigation systems, 59
tensiometer, 55 level float, 9, 54
test borings, 7 potential, 54
thiamethoxam, 87 quality, 70, 90, 92, 138
threshold water volume, 40 quality certification, 164
timing of N applications, 128 rights, 40, 162
timing of P applications, 133 seasonal use, 39

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 table, 8 tolerance after removal, 60
vertical movement, 8, 11 unable to hold, 34, 101, 116
weekly demand, 33, 39, 53 winterkill, 15, 66, 68
Water Management Act, 40 yield, 70
weather winter moth, 119
cranberry crops, 30 winter warm spell, 68
frost predictions, 63
hot summers, 31 X
stations, 6
weeds Xylena nupera, 117
challenges, 99
management, 13 Y
mapping, 87, 95 yellow-headed fireworm, 116
priorities, 87 yellow-vine syndrome, 53
Western picker, 20, 23 yield components, 4, 20, 141
wet bulb, 63 yield response
wetlands, 1, 7, 138 bees and management practices, 148
cranberry bogs function as, 167 nitrogen applications, 136
prevention of pollution, 169 phosphorus, 132
regulations, 164 pollination, 141
Wetlands Protection Act, 164, 167 yield suppression, 18
wick wiper, 98 fall floods, 90
Wilcox, 75 late water floods, 69
wildlife, 171 nitrogen rate, 131
wind, 43, 63
winter flood, 13, 15, 66, 104, 128
light penetration, 30 Z
loss of chilling, 68 zinc, 127
overwintering of insect eggs, 117 Zone II, 149, 150
oxygen levels, 67

198