Marshmello

Parentage
Marshmello (formerly EM224) was bred at East Malling Research from the cross Honeoye x Hapil and was first selected in 1985.

Season
Approximately 2 days before Elsanta for 50% harvest.

Fruit Quality
The berries have a very regular conical shape and mid-red colour with an attractive, glossy skin finish. Skin and flesh are moderately firm. Eating quality is excellent, with a lovely sweet flavour.

Yield and Fruit Size
In trials at East Malling the class 1 yield has been slightly higher than Elsanta with larger average berry size, particularly in year 2.

Marketing Suitability
Marshmello will mainly interest growers involved in PYO or direct sales. The excellent eating quality will appeal to consumers but the fruit firmness is not adequate for supermarket sales.

Plant Characteristics
Plants have moderate vigour with an erect habit and the fruit is well displayed. Runner production is good.

Disease Resistance
Moderately susceptible to powdery mildew (Podosphaera aphanis). Susceptible to wilt (Verticillium dahliae) and red core (Phytophthora fragariae).

Use of the Variety
Marshmello is well adapted to traditional growing systems in the open field but will also perform well under tunnels. It is recommended for situations where the grower can market the fruit directly based on its excellent eating quality