The most important news of this edition was the presentation of 15 new apple varieties, mainly of the Gala and Fuji varieties, which have achieved an adequate adaptation to the local growing conditions. One of the characteristics of the area is the very high temperatures in summer, both during the day and especially during the night. These conditions greatly affect the taste quality, texture and colouring of apples, so varieties coming from colder areas may present deficiencies in these aspects when grown in warm areas.
Over the last 15 years, apple production has been reduced by more than half because many producers have made the switch to peaches; however, the demand makes it necessary to import 240,000 tonnes of apples annually, given the lack of local supply. IRTA researcher Ignasi Iglesias sees the new apple varieties as an attractive option for producers to recover this crop and thus overcome the peach crisis. "People need to consider planting apples again, but with more adapted varieties and a highly efficient production system," says Iglesias.
The new varieties presented at the IRTA have successfully adapted to the area's climate, so the appearance of the fruit, its taste and texture can be considered high quality, thus providing value to the producer while satisfying the consumer.
Source: interempresas.net
