Greenhouse growing has changed the game in berry production, allowing farmers to grow strawberries year-round, regardless of the weather. Potager Mont-Rouge, based in Rougemont, has perfected this method, producing high-quality strawberries from January to early June. This approach not only ensures a stable supply, but also protects crops from climate problems and diseases, resulting in healthier and more flavorful berries.
Pioneering greenhouse cultivation at Potager Mont-Rouge
For the past four years, Potager Mont-Rouge has been growing strawberries in greenhouses. “Our strawberries are our jewels,” says Marielle Farley, co-owner of Potager Mont-Rouge. Using controlled conditions, they can achieve yields comparable to or even superior to those of strawberries grown in the open field. Harvesting occurs every two days, starting at the end of April, a month and a half earlier than field strawberries. This advanced start gives them a competitive advantage in the market.
Optimal conditions for strawberry growth
Strawberries do well in cooler temperatures compared to other fruits such as tomatoes. In Potager-Mont-Rouge, daytime temperatures are maintained at 20°C and nighttime temperatures at 15°C. Critical components include a heating system, water, soil enriched with fertilizers, and, most importantly, about 200 bumblebees for pollination. “Without these pollinators, our crop yields would be significantly lower,” Farley explains, emphasizing the importance of bumblebee and bee conservation to the future success of agriculture.
Economic Considerations
Creating a greenhouse requires significant investment, which affects production costs. Consequently, Potager Mont-Rouge sells strawberries exclusively through retail channels, ensuring that it can cover costs and maintain profit margins. Priced at $12 per liter, these strawberries are a premium product with unrivaled taste and quality. Despite the higher price, consumers are willing to pay for the guarantee of supporting local agriculture and receiving superior strawberries.
Regional benefits and future prospects
Montérégie, Quebec’s warmest region, provides unique advantages for growing strawberries early in the year. A mild winter and plenty of sunshine allowed Potager Mont-Rouge to start picking strawberries earlier than in other regions. In addition, financial incentives from the government encourage further investment in greenhouse farming. Experiments with other berries, such as raspberries, are already underway, which promises to expand the range of products grown in greenhouses.
Growing strawberries in a greenhouse at Potager Mont-Rouge demonstrates the potential of controlled environment agriculture to overcome climate constraints and improve crop quality. Although the economic aspect remains a challenge, the benefits of early and sustainable production are clear. As technology advances and financial incentives increase, greenhouse farming may become a standard practice, providing a consistent supply of high-quality, locally grown produce year-round.
