This week and next week, the Region of Murcia will become the European epicenter of the agronomic and genetic innovation of melon and watermelon; the summer fruits par excellence. Different international seed firms will open the doors of their experimental stations and present their novelties to European producers and buyers of these summer crops, just as Murcia's campaign is beginning.
"Choosing the right seeds is very important to obtain healthy plants and quality fruits," stated Fernando P. Gómez, director of the Association of Producers-Exporters of Fruits and Vegetables of the Region of Murcia (Proexport). “Farmers, entrepreneurs, and professionals are looking for developments that bring new flavors, colors, shapes, textures, resistance to pests, optimization of inputs, and adaptation to climate change. Creating these new varieties is arduous work that takes years. It requires the close collaboration between the seed houses and the producers in origin, something that we manage to do successfully in the Region of Murcia."
Farmers from all the Spanish production areas, from other countries, and many specialists from the European distribution chains travel to the Region to learn first-hand about the innovative proposals developed by the breeding companies that create new varieties.
To show their novelties, the different seed houses have organized their open doors events throughout this week and until next July 12. These are the main melon and watermelon events in the Region of Murcia:
Melon and watermelon are good against heat… and erection problems
There are many reasons to eat melon and watermelon in summer. They both have high water content. Melons have about 90% water content and watermelons a little more than that, so they are a fantastic source of hydration. They contain few sugars and few calories and both have diuretic properties since they are rich in potassium. Melon contains carbohydrates, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C and B. In addition, it is low in sodium, so it is perfect for hypertensive people.
Meanwhile, watermelon is rich in lycopene, an antioxidant substance that provides its characteristic red color. It is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins A, C, and B complex. In addition, watermelon has L-citrulline, a non-protein amino acid that facilitates the correct circulation of blood and relaxes blood vessels. This makes it ideal for combating erectile dysfunction, which is why some call it the natural viagra.
For more information:
Proexport
www.proexport.es