Philippines: New pineapple varieties tested
The Department of Agriculture has introduced the new varieties in a bid to reverse the declining yield of farmers. Some people have attributed the downturn in pineapple yields to the fact that growers plant only one variety - the Formose pineapple.
The Ulam variety is said to look similar to the Formosa pineapple and to taste very sweet. Where it differs however, is that the core is soft and edible.
The MD-2 hybrid is said to provide exceptionally sweet fruit.
Both varieties are being planted at high elevations, 400-800 metres above sea level.
Some experts disagree that new varieties are needed. They feel that it is growing practices that make the difference and say lack of crop rotations, along with insufficient fertilizer usage is the problem.
Source: pia.gov.ph
