By Blake Jackson
Registration is now open for the 2025 Missouri Blueberry School, taking place on February 21-22. This two-day event will provide valuable updates on various aspects of commercial blueberry production, including diseases, soil health, pruning, and other key issues.
The first day, February 21, will feature classroom sessions at the Darr Agricultural Center in Springfield. Attendees will hear from horticulturists from the University of Missouri Extension, University of Arkansas, and Missouri State University, with a farmer forum providing further insights.
On February 22, participants will have the opportunity to visit two local blueberry farms: Hoof and Harvest Farms in Rogersville and Persimmon Hill Farm in Lampe. These tours will give growers a firsthand look at successful blueberry farming practices in the region.
Interest in blueberries is growing rapidly in Missouri, with many growers seeing the potential to produce a high-value crop on small plots of land. "The 2025 Missouri Blueberry School is a valuable tool for producers to stay up to date on issues related to blueberry," says Kelly McGowan, MU Extension horticulture specialist.
Justin Keay, MU Extension horticulture specialist, adds, "Most of Missouri’s blueberry crop is sold directly to consumers. U-pick blueberries are in high demand, and agritourism is increasingly important to Missouri’s ag economy."
The Missouri Blueberry School is a collaboration between MU Extension, Lincoln University, and Missouri State University.
For more details and to register, visit 2025 Missouri Blueberry School Registration. For inquiries, contact McGowan at 417-874-2955 or mcgowank@missouri.edu.
Photo Credit: pexels-kristen-munk
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Education