During a recent meeting, Luigi Ciavorella (pictured here), a phytotechnician at Nova Genetics, provided an overview of the current state of the horticultural sector. He focused specifically on tomato production and the challenges associated with viral diseases.
He specified that Nova Genetics is the exclusive distributor of Yuksel Seeds' varietal products in Sicily. Yuksel Seeds is a multinational seed company headquartered in Turkey that has a presence in Europe and Morocco. Ciavorella said, "Yuksel Seeds is a very large and renowned company with numerous vegetable varieties, especially tomatoes. The Sicilian territory, particularly the area stretching from Pachino to Agrigento, is considered the home of tomatoes," says Ciavorella.
Regarding the response to the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV), which poses a significant threat to the tomato crop, the sector is considered to be at an advanced stage. The technician points out that, in a few years, "we probably won't be talking about it anymore." This optimism stems from the fact that major seed companies are offering varieties that are resistant to or more tolerant of the virus. "A similar effect to herd immunity is being achieved, in the sense that the more resistant varieties there are, the less impact the virus has on the territory. It is predicted that this problem could be significantly reduced within a few years, but for now, it still requires attention."
It is important to emphasize that even when using resistant varieties, it is crucial to follow prevention strategies, whether intermediate or not. The ToBRFV virus spreads by contagion and circulates in the air. Prevention strategies aim to prevent contagion and spread. These strategies include avoiding carrying tools and equipment from one greenhouse to another, as well as taking measures such as changing boots. "The goal is to adopt strategies that prevent the spread of viruses in general, not just ToBRFV," explains Luigi Ciavorella. There are also pathogenic bacteria, as in the case of bacteriosis, which necessitate the adoption of strategies to reduce contagion between greenhouses.
Photo: Engineer Giovanni Iacono with Luigi Ciavorella
With regard to technical support and grower training, Nova Genetics provides general guidelines. More specific containment strategies are then offered by field technicians, consultants, and the technical staff of larger companies. Reflecting on the level of awareness and application of preventive measures among operators, the expert observes, "There is a lot of awareness, fueled by fear of potential damage. Those who have already experienced problems with ToBRFV understand the importance of prevention because fear leads to the adoption of the necessary precautions."
Yuksel Seeds' new proposals in the tomato segment Among the new varieties for the current season is the highly popular European cherry variety Romy 406. This variety stands out for its high tolerance and excellent shelf life. Another emerging trend in the market is colored tomatoes.
Niche products, such as black, yellow, pink, and white varieties, are becoming more widely available. These varieties are primarily intended for the market in Northern Italy and Europe. Using different colored tomatoes is already common in Italy, especially for aperitifs and cocktails. Trays of multicolored cherry tomatoes, including yellow, green, red, pink, black, and white, are particularly popular.
An interesting variety is the mini white plum tomato called Snow White. When transplanting Snow White, it is best to avoid summer and instead favor autumn and spring. An interesting characteristic of this variety is that it retains its white color even after harvesting, without turning other shades.
Yuksel Seeds' extensive variety of seeds includes this unusual, special white tomato
The assortment includes ribbed tomatoes, which are particularly popular in the Sicilian market, including the Palermo market. Analyzing the organoleptic characteristics, particularly the Brix degree, these varieties generally reach values between 8 and 10, indicating high sweetness. However, the place of cultivation can influence sweetness and flavor. For instance, a Costoluto from Pachino may have a lower yield, yet be exceptionally sweet and flavorful due to the soil, climate, and high-conductivity water.
When shifting the focus to the destination markets for horticultural products from the Ragusa area, the Northern Italian market stands out as the most important. Germany remains important, particularly for organic products. Organic and biodynamic farming can be found not only in the Ragusa area, but also in the intensively cultivated zones of southern Sicily, known locally as the 'fascia trasformata.' Many organic farms are obtaining biodynamic certification because the two types of farming have several similar basic practices. The German market has shown a particular affinity for organic products, and more recently, biodynamic products have also gained traction.
There are many opportunities for young people interested in entering the sector. Luigi Ciavorella concludes, "It is advisable to pursue a course of study related to agriculture, such as becoming an agricultural expert or an agronomist." There is a strong demand for technicians in this field. Many seed companies and large multinationals are concentrated in the area and have local experimental fields. They are constantly looking for trained personnel. In short, there are many job opportunities in technical and commercial fields."
For more information:
Nova Genetics
Via Gesso, 42
97018 Scicli (RG) - Italy
Engineer Giovanni Iacono
Sole Administrator
+39 335 7590839
[email protected]
www.novagenetics.it