Soft fruit genetic improvement network (GIN)

There are increasing numbers of privately funded breeding programmes in the UK soft fruit industry which would all benefit from a co-ordinated research approach to pre-breeding genetics of key traits and new breeding tools. This project is being funded by Defra to link academia to industry and develop our understanding of the genetics influencing improved tolerance to pests and diseases, and increased water and nutrient use efficiency in strawberry and raspberry. It will also develop genetic tools and resources for minor crops such as blackberry and honeyberry to support increased production in the UK.

Soft Gin website

Funder: Defra

Industry partners: ADAS and the James Hutton Institute

Term: October 2024 to June 2029