Optimised Field Trial Design for Berry Crop Phenotyping

Field trials for berry crops use a standardised randomised complete block design with three replications to ensure reliable phenotyping data. The layout is optimised for strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry, minimising field space while supporting efficient data collection. Blueberry trials may use established commercial fields with single plots if plants are mature. Data are normalised per plant or per unit area for comparability. Harvested fruit are sorted into marketable and discarded categories. Fruit size is measured by weighing 15–20 strawberries, 20 raspberries, and 30 blueberries per harvest. This protocol enables consistent, repeatable assessment of agronomic traits, yield components, and pathogen response across multi-location trials.