South Africa’s Western Cape is home to a vibrant agricultural industry, with a diverse range of crops that thrive in its unique climate and soils. Among the latest additions to this impressive roster is BB1022 baby marrow, a new variety that has been causing a stir among local farmers. Planted by Mark Tolmay of McGregor, the BB1022 has quickly gained a reputation as a highly productive variety with a superior quality compared to currently available baby marrows.
The fruit produced by this variety is characterized by its dark green colour and cylindrical shape, making it more visually appealing on store shelves and in consumer kitchens.
One of the key features that contribute to the BB1022’s impressive performance is its resistance/tolerance to a range of common diseases that often plague baby marrow crops. The variety has been shown to be resistant/tolerant to Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), as well as Powdery Mildew. This makes it a valuable addition to farmers’ fields, as it allows them to maximize their yields while minimizing the use of harmful pesticides.
One of the key features that contribute to the BB1022’s impressive performance is its resistance/tolerance to a range of common diseases that often plague baby marrow crops. The variety has been shown to be resistant/tolerant to Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), as well as Powdery Mildew. This makes it a valuable addition to farmers’ fields, as it allows them to maximize their yields while minimizing the use of harmful pesticides.
In addition to its disease resistance/tolerance, the BB1022 is also well-suited to the growing conditions of the Western Cape. The variety has been shown to have a high tolerance for heat and drought, which are common challenges faced by farmers in the region. This means that farmers can plant the BB1022 with confidence, knowing that it is likely to perform well under a range of environmental Conditions.
The BB1022 is just one example of the many exciting developments taking place.
Image A: A succsesfull baby marrow BB1022 plantation.
Image B: Perfect baby marrow BB1022 fruit ready to be distributed.
Image C: Resistance to Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), as well as Powdery Mildew.
The response from other farmers in the region has been overwhelmingly positive. According to Tolmay, “All current farmers are very impressed by the BB1022.” The variety has been so successful that Tolmay is already planning to expand his planting of BB1022 in the coming season.
(Written by Theo Scholtz – Senior Field Officer, Stellenbosch, Western Cape)
