Global blueberry breeding program expands from Australian base

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Costa Group has marked a new stage in the development of its blueberry breeding program with the launch of BluGenix.

A core part of Costa’s operations, the blueberry variety improvement program draws on almost four decades of plant breeding experience.

Under the Costa BluGenix brand, the program is expanding into global markets and continuing the development of blueberry varieties focused on quality and flavour.

Headquartered in Australia, BluGenix develops blueberry varieties suited to a range of climates, from low-latitude no-chill to mid-chill regions. The company said each variety is developed for its growing environment to support field performance and fruit quality.

© Costa Group

The program also focuses on climate adaptability, pest resistance, water efficiency, yield, and harvest labour efficiency.

Costa Group CEO Marc Werner said the launch of BluGenix represented a new phase for the program.

“Our blueberry varieties are recognised around the world, and our investment in the future of BluGenix will ensure we continue to expand our variety offerings,” Werner said.

“Our breeding program has a long and rich history backed up by world-leading experts driving our success. We look forward to the next step in our journey.”

According to Costa, the program includes a large germplasm and genetic material base in Australia, technical breeding expertise, and support from the company’s berry operations in Australia and international markets.

The company also said its network of blueberry farms across different growing regions supports on-farm trials and the development of varieties suited to different climates and latitudes.

Costa said the program evaluates more than 25,000 seedlings and more than 500 selections annually.

Regional Director for Costa Berry International Leon Van Biljon said the BluGenix varieties are intended to support different grower requirements.

“With our extensive network of farms and growing expertise, we know what works. As BluGenix continues to expand globally, we look forward to delivering premium blueberry varieties that meet the needs of growers, retailers and consumers alike,” Van Biljon said.

© CostaFor more information:
Costa Group
Tel: +61 (0) 3 8363 9000
Email: [email protected]
www.costagroup.com.au

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Source: The Plantations International Agroforestry Group of Companies