Faq
Varietal innovation, research and experimentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of research projects are currently underway?
At Nova Siri Genetics, we are constantly working to contribute to the evolution of the strawberry and berry sector through ongoing genetic improvement.
In addition to short-day strawberry cultivars, our breeding program also focuses on developing new varieties of everbearing strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Our research is geared towards selecting cultivars that are increasingly high-performing in terms of fruit quality, productivity, adaptability to different growing regions, and alignment with market demands.
How are NSG varieties marketed?
How are new varieties tested?
Before being introduced to the market, all new NSG varieties undergo a rigorous trial programme. The trials are conducted in the experimental fields of our partner nurserymen and growers, located in the world’s main areas suitable for the cultivation of strawberries and berries.
This phase enables us to assess the performances of the new cultivars under different soil and climate conditions and using several cultivation techniques, evaluating their productivity, fruit quality, rusticity and adaptability.
Only after collecting and analysing the results obtained across the different growing areas, we select the varieties that meet our high-quality standards and proceed with their launch and international marketing.
What are the distinctive features of NSG strawberry varieties? = What are the cornerstones of Nova Siri Genetics’ research?
The strawberry varieties developed by the NSG breeding programme are distinguished by a set of characteristics specifically selected to meet the needs of growers, nurserymen and the market.
One of their main strengths is rusticity, which results in a greater ability to adapt to different soil and climate conditions, different types of soil, and good tolerance to the main cultivation challenges.
NSG varieties also guarantee steady production throughout the entire ripening cycle, offering consistent yields and quality over time.
A further distinctive feature is the quality of the fruit, characterised by uniformity of shape and colour, a high aromatic profile, a good balance between sugars and acidity, and a shelf life capable of satisfying the demands of the modern supply chain.
In which countries are your varieties grown?
Our varieties are cultivated in different global growing regions characterised by a mild climate, particularly the Mediterranean. They have become well established in the Mediterranean basin (southern Italy, Spain, Greece and the Maghreb countries). More recently, they have also reached more distant countries such as India, South Africa, South America, Australia and New Zealand.
Who are your main partners?
We collaborate with an international network of partners, including nurseries, producers, cooperatives and research organisations.
Constant dialogue with the different players in the supply chain is an integral part of our business, because we believe that innovation stems from collaboration. Working together with our partners allows us to develop increasingly high-performing varieties and to contribute to the sustainable growth of the strawberry and berry industry.
Are NSG strawberry varieties suited to greenhouse cultivation?
Yes. All strawberry varieties developed by Nova Siri Genetics are suitable for greenhouse cultivation, both in traditional soil-based cultivation and in soilless cultivation systems.
Thanks to their ability to adapt to different productive conditions, NSG varieties can be used in several cultivation systems, depending on the grower’s requirements and the characteristics of the cultivation area.
For more information on cultivation techniques, growing system or the best solutions adapted to your needs, click here to contact our technical team, who will be available to offer you support and advice.
When can I visit the NSG research centre?
You can arrange a visit to the NSG research centre in Policoro (MT) by contacting us at info@novasirigenetics.com.
In addition, every year we organise our traditional Open Day, an event dedicated to customers, partners and industry professionals to get a closer look at our work, visit the trial fields and learn more about the latest news from our genetic improvement programme.
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How long does the process of developing a new strawberry variety take?
The development of a new strawberry variety generally takes between 6 and 8 years.
From the initial cross-breeding to market launch, each new selection undergoes a long evaluation process. The cultivars are subjected to several selection stages and tested under different soil and climate conditions to assess their productivity, fruit quality, adaptability, resistance and long-term performance stability.
Only those selections that prove to meet NSG’s high quality standards and satisfy the needs of nurserymen, producers, distributors and consumers are introduced to the market. It is a rigorous process, which enables us to offer reliable, innovative varieties capable of creating value throughout the supply chain.
Do you sell the fruits of your varieties?
No. NSG does not directly produce or market the fruits of its own varieties. Our activity focuses on the research and development of new cultivars, which are multiplied through a selected network of authorised partner nurserymen.
The fruits of NSG varieties are grown and marketed by authorised producers. To purchase them, you will therefore need to contact our partners directly.
Click here to discover our main partner producers.
Do you sell commercial plants of your varieties?
No. NSG does not directly sell commercial plants of its own varieties.
The plants are available exclusively through our network of authorised partner nurserymen, who are responsible for multiplying and marketing NSG varieties in different territories.
Click here to view the list of authorised nurserymen and find the reference partner for your area.
Are your strawberry and berry varieties GMO-free?
Yes, all our strawberry and berry varieties are GMO-free. We exclusively develop them through traditional breeding programmes, based on cross-breeding and the selection of the best characteristics found in nature. We do not use genetic modification techniques (GMOs) in the development of our cultivars.
Our aim is to select innovative, productive and high-quality varieties, promoting biodiversity and natural processes of genetic improvement.
Click here to find out more about our scientific method!
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