Over the past two years Top Seeds has tripled sales of its midi cucumber variety, Isidro
Tasty and very productive. These are the two most prominent characteristics of Isidro, a midi-sized cucumber variety with which Top Seeds Ibérica has exceeded all its expectations. Although the variety has been on the market for over 5 years, sales have been growing exponentially over the past two. “They have tripled, the demand is increasing all the time,” according to Melchor Guzmán, sales technician from Top Seeds Iberica. The added value of this type of cucumber, with average prices that are substantially higher than for other types, its easy handling and the fact that it is a product linked to closed programmes, are some of the main reasons that lead farmers to opt for this variety.
The fruits from Isidro measure between 14-16 cm and they weigh an average of 90-120 grams. Crunchy, with a highly attractive dark green colour, thin peel with good pistil closure and a sweet flavour, they are ideal for eating as snacks or in one go, preventing food waste and ensuring maximum freshness, as there is none left over for a second time. The destinations where it is most popular are France, the Nordic countries and Germany. Another important consumer, but which is at the same time an important producer, is Turkey.
The plant of the Isidro variety is strong and very productive, “it produces between 4 and 5 fruits per internode; the same kilos as for a Dutch cucumber crop can be cut.” It has small, horizontal leaves, encouraging aeration and application of treatments. It is easy to handle, very similar to the Dutch cucumber, only differing in the need for more labour that is compensated with the average prices obtained at the end of the campaign.
Guzmán explains that the variety is recommended for sowing from February to September, as it is specially developed for the hottest months. Regarding resistances, it has PM, DM and ZYMV.
