A small, single-portion watermelon grown vertically in a greenhouse at high density is what Lambo Seeds is currently developing as it explores new horizons in the watermelon sector. "We have been experimenting for some time now," says Sandro Colombi, director of Lamboseeds. "To create a highly innovative product. It is not easy, it takes years of research, but we are on the right track."
Given the evolution of the market, the aim is to obtain 1.5 kg mini watermelons, with a maximum of 2.5 kg, seedless, very sweet, red-fleshed. "A certain percentage of consumers are very interested in a product that can be consumed quickly and has few problems with the organic disposal of the rind, which is not to be underestimated nowadays. However, the most innovative part of the product is the cultivation technique."
As with cucumbers (we are still talking about cucurbits), this is vertical production. "Thanks to this technique, which we are developing for our selections, we can produce with a high density of plants. In a protected environment, of course. Our work also involves the use of grafted or ungrafted plants, as the choice of one or the other affects the planting pattern."
Lamboseeds is part of the Dolce Passione Consortium and is the seed company that selected the Giotto watermelon variety. "Research must continue," concludes Colombi. "Consumer tastes and needs are evolving, and we must anticipate what will be in demand in the future."
For more information:
Lamboseeds
Piazza Martiri 22, 40019
Sant'Agata Bolognese (BO)
Tel.: +39 051.963033
Email: [email protected]
www.lamboseeds.com