Objective Determine the minimal organic nitrogen fertility for best yield of Aronia fruit.

1. Evaluation of Aronia yields, cultivar adaptability and optimum nitrogen requirement for organic production in Maryland Mathew, *S. A.1; Ristvey, A. G.2 1Agent, University of Maryland Extension, Cambridge, MD, 216132Extension Specialist, University of Maryland Extension, Queenstown, MD, 21658 Abstract The Black Chokeberry [Photiniamelanocarpa(Michx.) Robertson and Phipps], also known as “Aronia”, is a northeastern U.S native with a long history of fruit production in Eastern Europe.  As an alternative crop, this fruit is part of a growing industry in the mid-western States with great marketing potential. Recent studies have shown that Aronia has a very high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) compared to other fruit, including blueberries and the tropical palm fruit Açai. Increased interest by consumers to the health-promoting effects of fruits and vegetables containing high concentrations of flavonoids, considered potent antioxidants, makes Aronia a highly marketable fruit crop.  Research conducted at University of Maryland, Wye Research and Education Center has been evaluating Aronia’s cultural management, including cultivar adaptability, disease and pest resistance, and fertility requirements to produce optimum yield.  Two popular varieties, ‘Viking’ and ‘Nero’ were selected because of their availability in the U.S. nursery trade.   Our research has been showing that this fruit seems relatively easy to grow, requiring little fertilizer and pesticide input, which maximizes profit and reduces time for return on investment.  A University of Maryland Extension program is presently underway to promote the interest of this fruit as an alternative crop for farms. • Results and Discussion • Study 1 – ‘Viking’ yield 2008 • Viking plants receiving 3g N (15g N total), average yield 2.8 kg • Viking plants receiving 6g N (24g N total), average yield 2.2 kg • Less N yielded more fruit during establishment period • Study 2 – ‘Nero’ yield 2009 and 2010 • No difference in average yield and Brix between treatments • Nero plants receiving 0, 3, 7 and 14g N, average yield between treatments 2.2-2.4 Kg • in 2009 (Figures 1 and 2) • Nero Plants receiving 0, 3, 7 and 14g N, average yield between treatments 3.5-4.9 Kg • in 2010 (Figures 3 and 4) Objective Determine the minimal organic nitrogen fertility for best yield of Aronia fruit. • Materials and Methods • Study was conducted at WyeResearch and Education Center of University of Maryland • from 2006-2010. • ‘Viking’ and ‘Nero’ varieties • Plants in 4 rows (blocks), 1 meter centers, with black nursery fabric • Study 1-RCBD. Study 2-RCBD with split-plot • Response variables were yield in kg and soluble solid content in degrees Brix • Study 1 – May 2006 to August 2008 • Initial fertility - 6g per plant • After, fertility treatments of 3g or 6g N per plant • Total of either 15g or 24g of N • Parameter measured – average yield in kg per plant • Study 2 – May 2009 to August 2010 • Same plants used but rows (blocks) as split-plot • Fertility treatments of 0g, 3g, 7g or 14g N per plant • Parameters measured – average yield in kg and Brix per plant Figure 1 Figure 3 Figure 2 Figure 4 • Both cultivars, Viking and Nero showed excellent adaptability to Maryland soil and climatic conditions. There were no difference in yield between N rates after establishment. This indicates a low N rate can be utilized after establishment. So far, results show that Aronia plants need less than 11kg N (25 lb) per acre for maximal production. An increased N rates during plant establishment will be to be evaluated in future research. The University of Maryland is equal opportunity. The University's policies, programs and activities are in conformance with pertinent Federal and State laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, and disability. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990; or related legal requirements should be directed to the Director of Personnel/Human Relations, Office of the Dean, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Symons Hall, College Park, MD 20742.