A new green asparagus variety for warmer climates has been launched by UK seed supplier Global Plant Genetics, with commercial trials said to have yielded “excellent results”.
The hybrid, called Pacific Green,has performed at a similar level in the majority of international locations where it has been trialled over the past three seasons, according to Global Plant Genetics’ Jamie Petchell.
Bred by Dr PeterFalloon of Aspara Pacific in New Zealand, it is said to be adapted to both warm and more temperate climates, combining high yields with “industry-leading tip quality”.
“Growers and marketers of asparagus are more and more concerned by both high labour costs and even a shortage of harvest workers,” said Petchell. “It is therefore essential that asparagus producers grow hybrids that offer the highest marketable yields in order to minimise waste throughout the production chain. Pacific Green fully delivers in this aspect.”
Falloon added: “We produce our asparagus seed in optimal conditions, isolated from commercial production locations. Mother plants are established under protection and the resultant seed is free from the main viruses that affect asparagus seed.
“As a result, our varieties are less susceptible to common asparagus diseases, prolonging their actual field life, a key point for asparagus farmers across the globe.”
Global Plant Genetics said it was already fielding “significant interest” from growers that are currently testing the variety. It will be launched commercially “on a global scale” in spring 2019.
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