The effect of source-sink status on flowering and the performance of everbearing strawberry cultivars

Everbearing strawberry cultivars have the potential to extend the growing season and boost productivity through recurring flowering. However, fluctuations in cropping patterns pose challenges. Extended seasons lead to simultaneous vegetative and reproductive growth, highlighting the increased importance of source-sink balance. However, the regulatory relationships for everbearing strawberries are unclear. To elucidate the impact of source-sink balance on flowering and fruiting, we removed early inflorescences from two everbearing cultivars, namely ‘Favori’ and ‘Murano’. Findings reveal that resources limit continuous flower initiation. Altering source-sink status through early removal of inflorescences effectively manipulates flowering and fruiting patterns, leading to a more balanced and stable cropping with increased yields during the normal slowdown periods. Following flower removal, new flowers initiate, which appear to be influenced by the photoperiod and temperature occurring at the time. Relieving internal competition enhances dry matter partitioning, increases sugar concentrations in remaining fruits, and improves crop quality. Yield redistribution to the lag phase and second flush post-flower removal does not negatively impact assimilate partitioning, suggesting flower removal treatments enhance overall crop quality.