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Parentage
Bred by Dr. Derek Jennings from a cross between Joan J and a
hybrid of complex origin.
Season
In Southern England the cropping starts in late August or early
September and continues until the end of October. The normal
cropping time for Joan Irene in Spain is July. However, for
manipulation of the cropping season to later in the Autumn, Derek
Jennings suggest that, Joan Irene will respond well to cutting canes
to ground level in mid-May i.e. approximately 24 weeks from cutting
to the start of cropping. Grower may have to modify the timing of
the treatment according to experience.
Yield
Typical yields are considerably in excess of those obtained for
Joan Squire and all other primocane-fruiting varieties currently
being grown in the UK. Data supplied from a trial in Portugal showed
that Joan Irene yielded 29.9t/ha with a mean fruit weight of 4.3g,
compared to equivalent figures of 18.3t/ha and 4.3g for Joan Squire.
Fruit Quality
The fruits have a greater skin strength than Joan Squire and this
provides for a longer shelf-life. They have a bright, medium colour
and good flavour. Daily picking is recommended to avoid dark
coloured fruit.
Plant Characteristics
The stout canes are spine-free and numerous, and their growth is
vigorous, tall and erect. Vigour can be excessive, necessitating
support at a greater height than is usual for other varieties.
Horticultural Value
Joan Irene provides an opportunity to supply the markets with
high quality fruit at a time when cropping is in decline,
particularly for growers using plastic tunnels.
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