SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE APR. (Press Europa) –
The Cabildo de Tenerife has announced this Saturday that it will promote a sustainable cultural project centred on the Pitaya, named Pitamed, on the island. This initiative aims to aid in agricultural diversification and ensure the sustainability of the sector.
The endeavour is funded by a grant of €123,855.74 from European sources, allocated for the preparation and implementation of innovation projects of general interest.
This project aligns with “the intention of the island government” to diversify agricultural produce, alongside the integration of innovation and technology in crucial areas, such as minimising water usage, as outlined in a statement by the Primary Sector Counsellor, Valentín González.
To achieve these aims, the studies conducted by the Cabildo on subtropical crops present on the island, including bananas, mangoes, and papayas, along with less common varieties like the Pitaya, are essential. It is vital to approach this from agronomic, economic, and environmental perspectives to support the sector’s sustainability on the island.
As part of this project, the Cabildo will define and assess the production systems for Pitaya, select the varieties (in collaboration with the Pitamed members), and examine irrigation and fertilisation requirements with the Canarian Institute of Agricultural Research.
Moreover, tasks will include designing strategies for pest and disease management, conducting artificial pollination, and establishing the harvest index, as detailed by the island corporation.
“The sustainable development of Pitaya cultivation in Spain has a distinct focus in Tenerife, as it will enable us to ensure its profitability, contribute to agricultural diversification, and thereby decrease the water consumption linked to other crops,” cautions the insular councillor.
