Global Plant Genetics (GPG) is launching four new blueberry varieties from the Oregon Blueberry breeding program internationally, outside the United States and Canada: OBG-Astoria, OBG-Sirocco™, OBG-Belair™ and OBG-Raptor™. Commercial plantings are already underway.
The four varieties span different chill categories and production systems. OBG-Astoria is a high-chill, early to mid-season variety targeting the premium fresh market, with large berry size, balanced flavour and strong firmness. OBG-Sirocco suits low-to-mid chill regions and is designed specifically for substrate and intensive production systems, combining very large berries, exceptional firmness and a compact plant habit. OBG-Belair is also a low-to-mid chill selection, offering vigorous growth, high yield potential and strong fresh market performance. OBG-Raptor is a rabbiteye variety bred to deliver large, uniform berries, excellent firmness, very low seed count and eating quality comparable to highbush varieties, while retaining the vigour and resilience associated with the rabbiteye category.
© Global Plant Genetics
Jamie Petchell, Director at Global Plant Genetics, says: “These varieties represent exactly the kind of progress the blueberry industry needs. They are not simply new names being added to the market; they are varieties with the potential to move the market forward. Each one brings a clear commercial purpose, whether that is high-chill fresh market performance, low-to-mid chill adaptability, substrate suitability, or a genuine rethinking of rabbiteye blueberries.”
Petchell adds: “These varieties have shown amazing progress in trial and commercial evaluation. The response so far has been extremely encouraging, and we believe that they are set to make an impact from the very beginning. Our focus now is to work with the right partners in the right territories to build long-term success around these genetics.”
GPG will manage the international rollout through its established global network, developing trial and commercial opportunities on a territory-by-territory basis, subject to licensing, plant availability and market suitability.
© Global Plant GeneticsFor more information:
Global Plant Genetics
Tel: +44 (0) 1485 210091
Email: [email protected]
www.globalplantgenetics.com