“We’ve done an exceptional job.” José Luis Ruipérez, Pepper Crop Specialist at Rijk Zwaan, expresses satisfaction with the company’s progress in the California pepper segment. The seed house has made significant investments in Spain—particularly in Almería—to reinforce its breeding programs. The result of that effort is a new genetic line with powdery mildew (Lt) resistance, which brings clear improvements to pepper cultivation.
“We aimed to provide new tools to the field to help farmers face the growing challenges of pests, diseases, and increasingly strict regulations.”
Having access to top-tier genetics translates directly into better crop health and performance—especially in tough seasons like this one. “It’s been a difficult year overall, with severe outbreaks of powdery mildew. A nightmare for growers, who have suffered major losses.” Those who planted Rijk Zwaan’s latest generation of highly resistant varieties “have seen the problem nearly disappear after transplanting.”
Tailored varieties for every region
As part of its California pepper specialization, Rijk Zwaan develops varieties adapted to different regions and growing cycles. In the province of Almería, the company focuses on two major zones—Poniente and Levante—each with distinct environmental conditions.
In the Levante area, Ruipérez recommends the red California varieties Danzon RZ and Charanga RZ (yellow), both “perfectly adapted to the specific conditions of Níjar and Campohermoso.”
For Poniente growers, Danzon RZ is ideal for early to mid-season cycles where large fruit sizes (GG–GGG) are desired. Another option is Baiao RZ, a red California pepper for early cycles, designed for marketers seeking G–GG calibers. In the yellow segment, Sway RZ stands out as an early-cycle variety known for its easy and consistent fruit set, maintaining excellent size throughout the season.
RELATED NEWS: Rijk Zwaan: “Collaboration is the Key to Success”
With this broad portfolio, Rijk Zwaan has taken powdery mildew resistance “to the highest level,” says Ruipérez. “This level has made a real difference.” In addition to crop protection, these varieties have delivered top yields for growers this season. They have also proven to be cracking-resistant and maintain fruit quality in winter settings, enabling long production cycles and harvests through March with no issues and maximum quality.
California tour
Last November, Rijk Zwaan launched its first “California Tour,” taking visitors to five trial sites in Berja, Dalías, and Adra. The goal was to showcase the performance of its next-generation California pepper varieties under different conditions, transplant dates, and farms.
During these open-door events, growers were able to see firsthand the genetic advancements resulting from years of dedicated breeding by the Rijk Zwaan team.
