Spalding-based plant breeder and seed company Elsoms is entering the soft fruit sector with three new everbearing strawberry varieties from Dutch breeder ABZ Seeds. The two companies have signed an exclusive distribution agreement which will see Elsoms market Soraya, Estavana and Rowena in the UK.
The three varieties, which are claimed to offer ‘a healthier and more reliable plant with much more flexibility’ are all F1 hybrids and have been trialled by Elsoms over the last two years. The new varieties will be grown from seed at Elsoms’ facilities which the company says will provide cleaner plants.
“We’re pleased to be able to introduce more variety choice into the soft fruit market,” said Justin Solly, head of vegetable sales at Elsoms. “With these new varieties grown directly from seed, we know that we can deliver a healthier, more resilient option to the market.”
Seed specialist Claire Taylor added, “We’ve had large trials of Estavana from seed in the UK over the last two years. Trials of Estavana placed against the standard commercial variety, which is grown from runners, has shown a high level of performance that resulted in beautiful fruits supported by a strong and healthy plant.”
Picture Caption: Estavana strawberries