Alternative Fruit Crops Development Research Program

The Alternative Fruit Crops Development Program (AFCDP) was initiated in 1997 in response to requests for information from Missouri fruit producers and processors.  The program began with elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), and later expanded to include persimmon (Diospyros viriginiana) and pawpaw (Asimina triloba).  Among the program projects are germplasm collection, cultivar evaluation, pest management, and investigations into suitable cultural practices for these crops.  The AFCDP is a collaborative program among several institutions, including Missouri State University, University of Missouri, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture in Poteau, OK.  The collaboration allows for investigations in a wide range of environmental situations, and draws on the strengths of each institution to advance the objectives of the program.