Research center located in Almeria and other facilities in Murcia
Research allows us to meet market demands and to propose new alternatives. Our team is specialized and highly experienced, consisting of several PhDs in biotechnology, agricultural engineers and technicians. We have a research center located in Almería, and other dedicated buildings and facilities in Murcia.
Research
Selection, improvement and development of new varieties take place in the research center. New varieties are then tested in both internal and external trials, in order to ensure quality seeds that meet the demands of the overall market as well as those of each grower. In-house research is complemented with joint projects in collaboration with universities and governmental organizations.
Biotechnology tools such as molecular markers, physicochemical analysis of fruits, and bioassays (resistance analyses) are used frequently.
Development
Through a comprehensive plan of trials, the new varieties emerging from research undergo a period of study with our Development Department, when they are adapted to different areas and transplant dates.
Thus, baseline data is confirmed and the characteristics of each product are obtained, including all information relevant to growers: plant and fruit characteristics, resistance, shelf life behavior, suitable seasons and areas for growing, etc.
These trials are designed by our product specialists, both nationally and internationally. The result is a selection of varieties that offer specific added value, such as a special resistance or better nutritional content.
Innovation
The breeding goals for our varieties include incorporating resistance against the most important pathogens, and developing high vigor, high yield varieties, with uniform fruits and good shelf life.
Innovative projects like TRADITOM allow us to offer interesting new solutions.
There is also a CDTI project which is currently being developed for lettuce with European funding which has a three-part purpose. First, a technical objective,which is to identify resistance to Bremia lactucae in southeast Spain. Second, a commercial goal which seeks to obtain commercial varieties within isolated races with resistance to Bremia. And the third and final objective is of an environmental nature, which is the intent to reduce agronomic treatments that control Bremia.
The breeding programs that we are presently pursuing include the following species and types:
Cucumber: Dutch, Pickling, Beta Alpha, French
Melon: Piel de sapo melon, Galia, Yellow, Branco
Lettuce: Iceberg, Romain, Batavia, Little Gem, Baby Leaf
Aubergine: All segments
Pepper: Lamuyo, California and Italian
Tomato: On the vine, Roma, Cherry, Beef