A Case Study of High Tunnel Tabletop Strawberry Production Using Soilless Substrates

Strawberry ( Fragaria × ananassa ) growers in western Canada face climate challenges that limit field production and high tunnel systems are still relatively new in the region; therefore, challenges are not well known. This study provides an overview of strawberry production in western Canada and a case study for the transition from open-field to high tunnel tabletop strawberry production for a farm in Abbotsford, BC, Canada, over the 2023 and 2024 growing seasons. Powdery mildew (PM) ( Podosphaera aphanis ) was the primary biotic factor impacting strawberry production in this case study. To reduce conditions favorable for PM, the high tunnel microclimate was modified by increasing air circulation through increased venting. To moderate high temperature and low relative humidity during peak summer months, grass alleyways were established with microsprinklers, but bare soil was maintained under the gutters to reduce the survival rate of thrips ( Franklienella occidentalis ) pupae. Fungicide application was optimized by monitoring growing degree hours and timing applications more effectively. Despite the susceptibility of ‘Albion’ to PM, only one outbreak occurred, and it was successfully contained through integrated disease management. New cultivars (i.e., San Andreas, Cantus, Aurora Karima) were trialed to improve overall strawberry production and revealed tradeoffs between yield and fruit quality. This study demonstrates that integrated disease and insect pest management that includes microclimate control and informed fungicide application can reduce pest incidence in high tunnel tabletop strawberry systems. Although ‘Albion’ remains the primary cultivar grown at Lepp Farms, the testing of new cultivars is ongoing in the search for a cultivar that provides PM resistance in addition to high fruit quality and yield. Lessons learned in this study can help growers in western Canada and similar climactic areas improve fruit quality and yield, reduce pesticide usage, and support long-term sustainability for protected strawberry cultivation.