In the Erdemli district of Mersin, papayas grown for trial purposes in the banana greenhouse by Alata Horticultural Research Institute were harvested.
The institute, affiliated with the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies (TAGEM) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, added papaya to its work on new species produced in the Mediterranean climate. Some of the 50 seedlings planted nine months ago as a trial among the under-cover banana trees at the institute have matured and produced fruit.
The products were harvested by the staff. Institute Director Dr. Mustafa Ünlü told reporters that each sapling yielded about 60 kilograms of product and that they were happy with the yield obtained.
Stating that they aim to introduce farmers to new species, Ünlü said, "Our researchers are conducting trials on tropical fruits that can grow in the Mediterranean against the global climate change that has affected our country in recent years. The papaya we grew in this context has matured successfully. As the institute, we are trying to grow products that will contribute to the national economy and be a 'lifeline' for our producers."
Source: agroberichtenbuitenland.nl