Innovation in Papaya Cultivation: The Canary Islands as a Benchmark

These technical sessions allowed attendees to explore the good agronomic practices that have positioned the Canary Islands as a benchmark in papaya cultivation. Participants toured key farms, observing advanced management techniques and marketing strategies, which are essential to guarantee the quality and sustainability of the product. They also discussed the adaptation of these techniques to the southeast of the peninsula, where papaya cultivation is emerging with a promising future.

Emerging Opportunity on the Peninsula

While in the Canary Islands papaya is already an established crop, in the peninsula it is presented as an innovative opportunity. Mainland producers, interested in diversifying their crops, identified the climatic conditions of southeastern Spain as ideal for replicating the success of the Canary Islands. The possibility of positioning papaya as a competitive product in European markets was one of the key points of the meeting.

Papaya: A Superfood with Great Potential

During the conference, the nutritional benefits of papaya were highlighted, such as its high content of vitamin C, antioxidants and enzymes such as papain, which make it a healthy option for consumers concerned about their wellbeing. This superfood is recognised for its ability to strengthen the immune system and improve digestion, which increases its demand in national and international markets.

Collaboration and Sustainable Future

CapGen Seeds underlined its vision of connecting knowledge between territories to create new agricultural opportunities. Following the visits, strategies to increase the visibility of papaya in Europe were discussed, consolidating the role of CapGen Seeds as a leader in the promotion of innovative crops. Attendees showed great interest in further strengthening this collaborative network, anticipating new editions of PAPAYALAB and future technical meetings.

With these initiatives, CapGen Seeds reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the agricultural sector, positioning papaya as a profitable and high-value alternative for both local and international markets.

Diletta: An Eggplant with Great Potential

Our Diletta variety has proven to be one of the most promising in the eggplant market. The plant is vigorous, with short internodes and opaque leaves that ensure abundant fruiting from the early stages of growth. Its earliness allows farmers to take advantage of early market windows with high-quality fruits.

Diletta’s fruits are easily recognizable: they have a bright violet color, an elegant calyx, and an ideal weight between 600 and 700 grams. This makes it a perfect choice for both fresh markets and packaged presentations. Additionally, its ability to retain freshness during long transportation periods makes it a highly competitive variety.

Diletta’s Success Among Sicilian Farmers

We are thrilled with Diletta’s reception among Sicilian farmers, both in conventional and organic agriculture. A standout case is Azienda Guastella Bio, run by Salvatore Guastella, where Diletta has proven to be ideal for organic cultivation. Salvatore emphasizes the earliness of the variety, its excellent color, and the quality of its fruit, which stands out for its thick flesh and heat-resistant skin—perfect for Mediterranean conditions.

Moreover, large producers like the Splendort group in Ispica, represented by Angelo Cannata, have quickly adopted Diletta. Angelo praises the plant’s vigor and strong foliage coverage, which ensures abundant and early fruiting. He says, “Diletta allows us to be competitive from the get-go, thanks to its bright violet color and good fruit weight.”

Another success story comes from Giuseppe Iurato, a partner at Associazione Semplice Agricola ‘S. Giuseppe’ in Scicli. Giuseppe shares: “Diletta has surprised us with its excellent productivity and unmatched flavor. This eggplant not only offers high yields but also meets the market’s high-quality standards.”

Continuous Innovation at CapGen Seeds Italy

At CapGen Seeds Italy, we continue to innovate. In addition to Diletta’s success, we are working intensely on other crops, particularly peppers and oval tomatoes. Bartolo Rendo, R&D Manager CapGen Seeds Italy, states: “Diletta has succeeded in both conventional and organic agriculture thanks to its earliness and quality. Moreover, our pre-commercial trials of yellow and red lamuyo-type peppers and oval tomatoes have shown very promising results.”

With the introduction of Diletta and other varieties, we reaffirm our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and farmer satisfaction. At CapGen Seeds Italy, we remain focused on developing solutions for conventional and organic farming, consolidating our presence in the world’s most demanding markets.

INNOVATION IN SUSTAINABILITY WITH LOW NITROGEN FROM CAPGEN SEEDS

In line with new policies that advocate more sustainable agriculture, CapGen Seeds has spent the last few years developing several lines of research including ‘LOW NITROGEN’ in tomato. This initiative aims to find the perfect balance between high yields, quality fruit and reduced use of nitrogen fertilisers. In 2023, we announced that the Mandela F1 tomato variety maintained exceptional yields even with a 30% reduction in nitrogen fertiliser use compared to other varieties in the same segment. These results, obtained through rigorous studies at the Agadir research centre, are a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

‘The Mandela tomato is redefining the agricultural landscape in North Africa. Its success is not only measured in terms of popularity and demand, but also in its contribution to sustainability and reduced environmental impact. Thanks to the vision and dedication of CapGen Seeds, this variety has become a symbol of innovation and progress, proving that it is possible to combine high productivity with responsible and sustainable practices,’ says Rafael Cremades, CEO of CapGen Seeds.

KEYS TO ITS SUCCESS: ADAPTABILITY AND RESILIENCE

The ability of the Mandela tomato to thrive in demanding conditions, maintaining high quality and yield with less fertilisation has been a decisive factor in its mass adoption by farmers. Reduced reliance on nitrogen fertiliser not only reduces costs, but also promotes more sustainable farming practices.

COMMITMENT TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

The successful commercialisation of the Mandela tomato is not only an economic achievement, but also an important step towards more environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture. By reducing some reliance on nitrogen fertilisers, it reduces environmental impact and promotes a more responsible use of resources. This approach is aligned with new global policies advocating sustainable agricultural practices, making the Mandela variety a turning point towards a more environmentally friendly future.

International trials and encouraging results

CapGen Seeds is conducting trials with ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties in several countries, including Italy, Mexico and Morocco. International results have also confirmed the effectiveness of virus resistance in these pre-commercial varieties. Rafael Cremades, Managing Director of CapGen Seeds, comments: “We are very satisfied with the results obtained. This allows us to offer our customers a wide range of high quality tomatoes with proven resistance to ToBRFV”.

Innovation and Sustainability in Seed Procurement

We are in the process of expanding our offer to include a wider range of ToBRFV-resistant tomatoes. This effort will encompass several varieties, such as salad, cherry, pear and industrial tomatoes. Our goal is to provide options that not only meet the different needs and preferences of our customers, but also ensure resistance to the virus. With this expansion, we aim to strengthen our market position and offer more complete solutions adapted to the current demands of the agricultural sector.

At CapGen Seeds we are dedicated to innovation and sustainability, providing vegetable seeds that ensure profitable and environmentally friendly production. We have a team of highly qualified professionals with extensive experience in the sector. Our commitment is to develop varieties that meet the needs of farmers and consumers, guaranteeing quality and resistance.

Reasons to choose Sicily

Sicily, known for its agricultural tradition and favourable climatic conditions, is the ideal place for the development of new vegetable seed varieties. CapGen Seeds Italy will use half a hectare of crops in Sicily to study the adaptability of its seeds, focusing on the development of papaya and tomato, two key crops for the Italian market. This approach allows for in-house screenings to refine the seeds and ensure maximum quality and yield for Italian farmers. Antonino Fidone, Sales Manager of CapGen Seeds Italy, said: “This is a great opportunity both for CapGen Seeds and for the Italian market. Opening up the market to new companies is always a great benefit for the sector”.

Innovation and adaptability at CapGen Seeds Italy

The new branch in Sicily has as its main objective to strengthen the various varieties that the company has introduced in recent years. A team of specialists and technicians will work on improving and adjusting the seeds to suit the Italian climate and soil, ensuring the best results for growers.

Rafael Cremades, Managing Director of CapGen Seeds, said: “We are excited about the opening of our branch in Italy. This expansion will allow us to offer innovative agricultural solutions adapted to the needs of Italian farmers.

New line of research: Papaya

CapGen Seeds launches a new line of work focused on papaya, seeking to maximise the yield of this crop in Sicily. Papaya, identified as a crop with great potential due to the region’s favourable climatic conditions, will benefit from CapGen Seeds’ research and development. This will not only expand the company’s product portfolio, but also offer solutions specific to the needs of local farmers, promoting more sustainable and profitable agriculture.

“The combination of advanced technology, constant research and a deep understanding of local needs will allow CapGen Seeds Italy to become a reference in the seed sector in the country,” commented Antonino Fidone.

Impact on Italian agriculture

With the opening of the new branch in Sicily, CapGen Seeds is poised to make a significant difference in Italian agriculture. The dedication to varietal adaptability and the development of new product lines, such as papaya, underlines the company’s long-term vision. Italian farmers can expect remarkable improvements in the quality and yield of their crops thanks to CapGen Seeds’ innovations.

With this expansion, CapGen Seeds reaffirms its position as one of the leaders in the development and breeding of high yielding seeds in Europe, adapting to the specific needs of Italian farmers.

What is Cis-Lycopene?

Lycopene is a carotenoid found in several fruits and vegetables, but papaya is one of the richest sources of its cis-form. Unlike trans-lycopene, cis-lycopene is more easily absorbed in the human body, making it more effective in its health benefits. This carotenoid is known for its antioxidant properties, which help fight free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Health Benefits of Cis-Licopene

Regular consumption of cis-lycopene has been associated with several health benefits, including:

• Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: cis-lycopene helps improve heart health by lowering LDL cholesterol and improving endothelial function.
• Cancer prevention: Studies have shown that cis-lycopene may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, especially prostate cancer.
• Eye health: This carotenoid is also beneficial for eye health, helping to prevent age-related macular degeneration.
• Skin protection: Cis-lycopene can protect the skin against damage caused by sun exposure, reducing the risk of sunburn and premature aging.

The Alicia Papaya: A Superior Source of Cis-Licopene

The Alicia Papaya variety, developed by CapGen Seeds, stands out not only for its excellent taste and texture, but also for its high concentration of cis-lycopene. This variety has been carefully bred to maximize its content of this important carotenoid, providing a nutritious and delicious option for those looking to improve their health.

Why Choose Papaya Alicia?

• High Cis-Lycopene Content: Papaya Alicia is one of the best sources of cis-lycopene available, offering greater bioavailability and efficacy compared to other sources of lycopene.
• Exceptional Taste and Texture: In addition to its nutritional benefits, the Alicia papaya is distinguished by its sweet taste and smooth texture, making it a pleasure to include in your daily diet.
• Sustainable Cultivation: At CapGen Seeds, we are committed to sustainable cultivation practices, ensuring that our varieties are not only good for your health, but also for the environment.

How to Incorporate Papaya Alice into Your Diet

Papaya Alicia is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can add it to smoothies, fruit salads, or simply enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack. No matter how you choose to consume it, you will be reaping all the benefits of cis-lycopene for your health.

In short, CapGen Seeds’ Alicia Papaya is the best choice for those looking to increase their cis-lycopene intake and enjoy its numerous health benefits. By choosing Papaya Alicia, you are not only choosing a delicious fruit, but also a nutritionally superior option that can significantly contribute to your overall well-being.

Find out more about Papaya Alicia and other Papaya varieties available at CapGen Seeds – your health and well-being deserve the best!

Discovering Opportunities through Innovation in Papaya Farming

When and where?

• Date: Tuesday 28 May 2024
• Time: 09:00 hours
• New Place: Sala de Conferencias, B&B Hotel de Vícar Parque Comercial Viapark

What awaits you at PAPAYALAB?

• Keynote lectures by experts in papaya cultivation.
• Networking sessions to exchange ideas and establish contacts.
• Insight into the latest trends, technologies and best practices.
• Key topics such as innovation, sustainability, pest and disease management, breeding, marketing and much more.

Keynote speakers:

• Asensio Navarro, manager of Semilleros Vitalplant, who will share his experience on the first steps of papaya cultivation.
• Irene Salinas, a researcher at the University of Almeria, will offer a unique perspective on the cultivation of papaya in the Mediterranean under glass.
• Juan Alberto Cabrera, a Canarian papaya expert and representative of CapGen Seeds, will be discussing the cultivation of papaya in the subtropical zone under glass.
• Pepe Montiel, from Tropical Almanzora, will share his valuable experiences on the cultivation of Papaya in Almeria.

Debate on the future of papaya:

The day will conclude with a debate on the current situation and future prospects for papaya cultivation, where it is hoped to foster an open and constructive dialogue that will inspire effective solutions to current and future papaya challenges.

How to participate?

Participation in PAPAYALAB is free of charge, but places are limited. To register, please fill in the form at: https://www.capgenseeds.com/en/papayalab-tech-day/

More information:

• Telephone: +34 682 20 76 91
• Email: [email protected]

Don’t miss this unique Papaya event in Almeria, we are waiting for you!

On this occasion, we will present our latest innovations in seeds, including exciting new varieties in tomato, cucumber and watermelon, in addition to our well established and recognizable varieties such as our large caliber oval tomato variety Obelix. We will officially introduce Gavilan, a oval cherry tomato with resistance to ToBRFV (ToBRFV), ideal for late fall cycles and with high production capacity. In addition, our new export oval tomato variety, CGT3615, which has already generated great expectation even before its official presentation. This variety stands out for its quality and long post-harvest life, and is resistant to rugose virus (ToBRFV).

CapGen Seeds showcases innovations at the next edition of Expolevante

Continuing with our commitment to innovation and excellence in the agricultural sector, we will also present our cucumber and watermelon varieties under development. In this regard, we have three new cucumber varieties in pre-commercial stage, designed to cover the entire crop cycle with resistance to CGMMV. We will also launch CGW1046, a black watermelon that promises to stand out for its flavour and high Brix content.

Our team will be available during the show to provide detailed information on our current projects and answer any questions visitors may have. We are pleased to reaffirm our commitment to innovation and excellence in the agricultural sector, offering solutions that meet the changing demands of the market and contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture.

Feel free to visit our stand at number 88, Expolevante-Níjar 2024 to learn more about our exciting innovations and ongoing projects! We are excited to share our passion for agriculture and show how our varieties can help boost productivity and sustainability in the field. We look forward to seeing you at the show!

This new agricultural fair will bring together more than 30 leading companies in the industry, offering a unique platform to explore the latest trends, technologies and products that are transforming agriculture on the Granada Coast. From innovations in marketing and nutrition to advances in seed genetics and digital control technology, the show will cover all areas of interest to industry professionals. In addition, there will be a series of keynotes and lectures by leading industry experts, providing an invaluable opportunity for learning and collaboration.

At our stand, located at number 3, we invite you to take a closer look at our most outstanding varieties grown in the province of Granada. From papayas and tomatoes to peppers and cucumbers, our innovative seeds are designed to maximize crop yield and quality. Our team will be happy to share detailed information about our varieties, as well as discuss the latest trends and farming practices.

CapGen Seeds at the Granada Coast and I EXPO CHERRY

Participation in this event on the Granada Coast is a testament to our continued commitment to innovation and excellence in agriculture. We are committed to continuing to drive the advancement of the agricultural industry and to provide innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers and the marketplace at large.

We look forward to seeing you at I EXPO-CHERRY 2024 to discover together the exciting future of agriculture on the Granada Coast! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with industry experts, explore new technologies and find inspiration to take your farming to the next level – see you at La Rábita!

Colima F1 emerges as a natural evolution of our successful Caballero papaya, which has been recognised for its quality and yield in different regions of the world. With Colima, we have pushed the boundaries of convention to offer a variety that not only retains the outstanding qualities of its predecessor, but also introduces significant improvements in terms of fruit size, flavour and shelf life.

Colima fruits have an optimum size, ranging from 0.8 kg to 1.2 kg, which makes them an ideal choice for markets. Moreover, their average soluble solids content of 14 – 15º Brix guarantees a sweet and exquisite taste that delights the most demanding palates. But Colima’s qualities do not stop here. Its remarkable hardness confers an excellent post-harvest capacity, which allows for more efficient handling and transport, and widens the marketing window for producers.

The papaya Colima F1: Genetics and Performance

One of the most outstanding features of Colima F1 is its genetics, with 90% of the genetics of our Caballero variety. This genetic continuity ensures consistency in terms of quality and yield, while offering significant improvements in fruit size and resistance. In addition, the Colima plant has a low growth habit, which facilitates a higher planting density in greenhouses. This translates into higher production per square metre, thus optimising space and increasing the profitability of the crop.

At CapGen Seeds, we are committed to developing varieties that are not only profitable for growers, but also environmentally sustainable. The introduction of Colima F1 reflects this ongoing commitment to agricultural innovation and customer satisfaction. With our research and development expertise, we continue to drive the advancement of agriculture by providing innovative solutions that address current and future industry challenges.

We are proud to introduce Colima F1 as an outstanding choice for greenhouse papaya growers. We firmly believe that this variety will contribute to the success and prosperity of our customers around the world, providing them with an invaluable tool to boost their yields and meet market demands. We remain committed to the constant pursuit of excellence and innovation in agriculture, and look forward to the future opportunities that the road ahead holds.