Sprout density for the production of organic mini-cabbage from mother plant regrowth

Abstract

The method of producing organic mini-cabbages from regrowth of mother-plant was initiated at the Unidade de Referência em Agroecologia of the Incaper in 2013, possibly acting as an efficient alternative for the obtainment of cabbages with a more adequate average weight for the desires of the modern consumer. The aim of this study was to define sprout density in the mother plant, which allows better productivity and commercial standards for organic mini-cabbages. The experiment was developed during the period from September to November 2015, using the F1 Shinsei hybrid, in a design with randomized blocks, with five replications. Sprout density was determined following thinning, constituting the following treatments: two, three, four, five and six sprouts per plant. Best management of sprouts was the technique with four sprouts per plant, since it allowed greater productivity (52,997kg ha-1) and a greater number of commercial heads, together with a commercial standard of heads with average weight (414g) and median diameter (8.8cm) adequate for the standards demanded by the consumer.

Post-Harvest Quality and Sensory Evaluation of Mini Sweet Peppers

“…The consumption of mini and baby vegetables has been growing over the years in Brazil, presenting an important appeal to consumers due to the ease of consumption and taste [8]. In addition, this type of vegetable provides a higher added value for rural producers, representing an excellent option for the diversification of production.…”

“…Mini and baby vegetables are considered one of the alternatives to increase the healthy foods consumption, mainly for children and young people, because they provide greater ease for consumption and many of them are tastier, making it more attractive both visually and by taste [8]. The horticultural sector is constantly subjected to a process of change that requires the implementation of strategies for innovation of its products.…”

“…An alternative to diversify this production chain is the cultivation of mini-vegetables which has presented advantageous economic opportunities [7,9]. The popularization of mini-vegetables began in the 1990s in Europe and expanded throughout the world [8].…”