Vaccinium Species and Management

The Working Group Vaccinium Species and Management operates under Division Vine and Berry Fruits. This Working Group was formed to address all aspects of Vaccinium spp. production and management. Plants in the Vaccinium genus include several species of blueberry, cranberry, lingonberry and others. The fruits produced by these crops have a range of tastes from sweet to tart and are generally known for their bioactive health compounds. Vaccinium spp. crops are currently growing all over the world and production continues to expand at a rapid rate. Those species that are not commercially cultivated are important as understory shrubs and as food for wildlife. The purpose of this group’s activities is to bring together academics, researchers, extension agents, industry representatives and producers/growers for ‘fruitful’ discussions and collaboration.

The main activity of the Working Group is the organization of the International Vaccinium Symposia. The main purpose of the symposia is to bring together academics, researchers, extension agents and other disciplines for discussions and ‘fruitful’ collaborations. Additionally, this Working Group remains active in other initiatives of international interest, such as in the participation in the Berry Symposia planned every four years at the International Horticultural Congress and the European Horticultural Congress. In addition, the Working Group interacts with other ISHS Working Groups on matters pertaining to Working Group objectives.

We encourage all those involved in Vaccinium research to join and become actively involved in this Working Group.