Over the past decade, strawberry and raspberry production has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from soil-based systems to substrate cultivation using coco coir, peat or organic–inert blends. While this transition improves plant health and yield potential, it also requires a higher level of technical control. In these systems, precision fertilization is no longer an optional improvement — it has become essential for sustainability, efficiency and fruit quality.
From uniformity to precision: a new management approach
Traditional soil cultivation often relied on broader, seasonally adjusted fertilization strategies. In substrate systems, however, plants depend entirely on fertigation. Every irrigation event becomes an opportunity to fine-tune nutrient supply according to phenological stage, climate conditions and the balance between plant uptake and drainage losses. Precision fertilization means delivering the right nutrients, at the right dose, at the right time — preventing imbalances, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing input efficiency.
Computer-controlled fertigation becomes standard practice
An increasing number of berry growers are adopting computer-controlled fertigation systems capable of managing multiple irrigation zones, adjusting EC and pH in real time, and maintaining stable nutrient recipes throughout the day. Solutions on the market range from basic dosing systems to fully integrated, predictive platforms. A key advantage is scalability: many systems are modular, allowing growers to start with a basic setup and gradually upgrade as production expands.
Sensors and real-time monitoring: stabilizing the root zone
Modern systems can also monitor irrigation and drainage continuously, collecting data on applied volumes, as well as return-water EC and pH. When combined with substrate moisture sensors (VWC) and environmental monitoring, fertigation shifts from a fixed schedule to a responsive, data-driven process. This helps maintain stable root-zone conditions, prevent over-irrigation or water stress, and support consistent plant performance.
Economic efficiency, fruit quality and the role of expertise
Precision fertilization can reduce costs indirectly by improving water and fertilizer efficiency, lowering leaching losses and stabilizing EC and pH levels. Its most visible impact, however, is on fruit quality. Well-managed fertigation improves firmness, color uniformity, flavor balance and shelf life. Proper nutrient distribution — particularly calcium-to-potassium ratios — plays a critical role in fruit physiology and post-harvest performance.
Still, technology alone is not enough. Correct data interpretation and timely decision-making remain essential. Agronomists and consultants play a key role in translating sensor data into practical actions tailored to each site’s specific conditions.
A backbone of modern berry production
Soilless cultivation offers greater standardization, scalability and predictability, but it removes the soil’s natural buffering capacity. On substrate, growers are fully responsible for every element delivered to the plant. For this reason, precision fertilization, sensor-based monitoring and computer-assisted fertigation are no longer optional tools — they form the backbone of modern strawberry and raspberry production.
The future of berry farming will be defined not only by yield, but by efficiency, resource management and consistent quality. Precision fertigation, supported by technology and expertise, is central to building that future.