Development of a Pomegranate Industry

Summary

The Georgia Pomegranate Association (GPA) is in the midst of a rapid expansion, and is in need of numerous research studies addressing key production problems that will ultimately assist in the establishment of a major industry.

Situation

The newly founded GPA, comprised primarily of blueberry growers wishing to diversify their crop in order to mitigate fluctuations in price and season, are actively promoting the production of pomegranate as an alternative high-value crop to compliment current blueberry production. However, numerous basic questions regarding pomegranate cultivation, handling and processing are yet to be answered, and are inhibiting the expansion of the industry.

Response

The College has responded by working closely with the GPA to develop on-farm research for important studies to further the advancement of the industry. Over the past 12 months, we have revitalized a small orchard located at Ponder Farm and used this as a starting point for determining cultivars suitable for production in south Georgia. Using the fruit from this site, we have performed numerous preliminary studies evaluating postharvest quality, phytonutrient content, potential for juice processing, and identification of fruit pathogens. Subsequent to these initial studies, we have applied for, and received, two significant grants for studying in greater detail the important quality attributes of Georgia pomegranates. We are now in the process of identifying a site for another orchard for use in evaluating new cultivars that were acquired through foreign collaborations, and for evaluating proper cultivation techniques. Early in the year, I organized a 2-day visit with important players in the California pomegranate industry for myself and a member of the GPA. This trip involved site visits with local growers, processors, county agents, and the UC Davis pomegranate germplasm repository. We also contributed to the Pomegranate Feasibility study that was commissioned by the GPA and performed by the UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development (CAES). Furthermore, we have been regular attendees at the quarterly GPA meetings held in Alma, Ga., where we disseminate our research findings, and discuss future research directions and collaborations directly with our stakeholders.

Impact

This past year has seen a handful of growers plant numerous acres of pomegranate, with acreage limited only by the availability of rooted cuttings. However, this past year has also seen two local nursery operations begin to offer certified plants that will undoubtedly contribute to the expansion of the industry. The impacts from the two funded research projects will be realized over the next 2 to 3 years as systems for cultivation, control of diseases, storage and processing are determined.

State Issue

Agribusiness Development/Value Added

Details

• Year: 2009
• Geographic Scope: Multi-County
• County: Tift
• Program Areas:
  • Agriculture & Natural Resources