Berries are grown in various areas of NSW, such as the northern, central and southern tablelands and the mid north coast and north coast regions. Where particular types of berries are grown depends on the berry variety and the type of production system used.

Based at Wollongbar, NSW DPI Berry Development Officer Melinda Simpson said the blueberry industry in the North Coast region of NSW continues to develop as a major emerging industry estimated at $390 million, with NSW producing 87 per cent of Australia's production.

“The blueberry industry is intensive, high in value, a significant employer, and produces a quality product for the domestic and export markets,” Ms Simpson said.

“Blueberries are considered a super food that boosts your health and brain power. There are so many health benefits as blueberries contain antioxidants, potassium and vitamin C. Just half a cup of blueberries contains more antioxidants that 2 cups of spinach.”

To ensure consumers continue to get the best quality berries, NSW DPI recently partnered with OzGroup Co-op and Berries Australia to host a berry plant protection fair held at Coffs Harbour.

Twenty industry exhibitors attended the fair, with over 100 growers keen to learn about plant protection techniques for berries.

Presentations covered integrated pest and disease management, soil health, beneficial bugs, pest monitoring tools, biosecurity and included some practical demonstrations.

To assist with quality crop production, NSW DPI provides valuable resources for growers to enhance soil, water and nutrition management and to tackle disease, weeds and insects.

The latest edition of the Berry plant protection guide 2021-22 is available to provide up-to-date information on all aspects of protecting your plants from pests and diseases.

This is the fourth edition of the Berry Plant Protection guide and has an integrated pest management focus, providing information on a range of different methods that can be used to manage pests and diseases in berry crops.

The guide has been co-funded by Hort Innovation using research and development levies from the Blueberry fund, Raspberry and Blackberry Fund and Strawberry Fund and funds from the Australian Government.

More information  is available in the Berry plant protection guide on the DPI website https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/horticulture/berries