Metric is Sakata's new Dutch cucumber variety for autumn transplants. "Our variety incorporates a powerful package of resistances against different diseases and viruses, including powdery mildew, CGMMV, and the New Delhi virus. In addition, it's one of the shiniest fruits on the market," stated Cecilio Fernández, head of cucumber development at Sakata Seed Ibérica.
Metric is also a very profitable variety for producers. It requires a significantly reduced labor force, and its generative plant yields a high production volume, which translates into fewer costs and greater benefits, Fernandez added. Farmers, technicians, and media that have approached the launch in Las Marinas have highlighted Metric's shininess and dark color, the uniformity of its shape and size, and its very small pistil scar. "In this case, the shine contributes to meeting the market's demand to extend the fruit's shelf life and eliminate the protective plastic in cucumber packaging."
Having a complete package of resistances is reassuring for producers. "This variety is not only resistant to powdery mildew, yellow veins, and yellowing, but also to CGMMV and New Delhi, diseases that pose a risk and create concern among cucumber growers," the head of Sakata's cucumber crop stated.
Metric, which continues the company's trend of naming its cucumber after indie music groups, is a variety indicated for autumn transplants, with direct sowing from August 20 to early October, depending on the areas. Its peaks in winter, when it unfolds its maximum generative potential, coinciding with the plant's regrowth.
A boost to Sakata's cucumber R&D
Last October, the multinational seed company announced the acquisition of Sana Seeds, a Dutch company specializing in the cultivation, production, and sale of high-quality cucumber varieties. "This acquisition is in line with Sakata's strategy to always invest in innovation with a long-term focus," stated Basile de Bary, Sakata EMEA's CEO. Sakata thus strengthens its position in the global cucumber markets and continues to develop its extensive crop portfolio.
For more information:
Sakata
https://sakataiberica.com