Perennials

Within the EVA Boost project, funds are allocated to develop a framework for a new EVA Network focused on perennial plants, specifically berries and fruit trees. A key aspect of this effort involves bringing together genebanks and stakeholders from the public and private sectors in a workshop in Ancona, Italy, to create a roadmap for collaboration.

This initiative builds upon the foundations laid by ECPGR Working Groups and existing EVA networks, and aims to connect with ongoing European projects such as BreedingValue and InnOBreed. It will investigate how the EVA operational framework could be adapted for clonally propagated perennial crops, and how the long-term evaluations could be financed.

An EVA Perennials network would enhance the documentation, quality and accessibility of fruit and berry plant genetic resource (PGR) data in the EURISCO database. Additionally, the network intends to enhance the diversity of fruit varieties available in the market, providing breeders and growers access to valuable genetic materials. Through exchanging knowledge, experience and data, the network will promote sustainable practices, strengthen public–private partnerships and contribute to innovation in fruit and berry crop research and production.