The breeding programme is at the heart of the CIV’s activities. A key part of this work involves selecting new clones. In the early apple segment, we selected two new clones of Gala that showed particularly interesting characteristics.
T-REX®/CIVT15* stands out for its early colouring compared to other Gala clones. The production shows excellent uniformity in both ripening and size, with larger fruit and a distinctive conical shape.
The stability of T-REX® impressed our breeders, who decided to select this clone for its production advantages. Even in lowland areas, where early colouring is more difficult to achieve, T-REX® has demonstrated this crucial feature. It also has a more compact habitus than traditional Gala. Asian markets are showing strong interest in this clone, which has excellent growth prospects globally.
Our response to the striped Gala clones is TIGERGALA®/CIVS15*.
This clone, which is also characterised by a high amount of striping with excellent colouration, extends its cultivation areas to markets that are particularly challenging in this aspect. In the face of climate change, which negatively impacts yields, especially in lowland areas, TIGERGALA® stands out for achieving intense striping earlier than other clones.
Federico Stanzani, Commercial Director of CIV, adds: ‘Interest in Gala T-REX® is growing among growers due to its distinctive characteristics: the uniform red colour over the entire surface and the large size. The fruit catches the attention of consumers and buyers on the shelf’.
T-REX® and TIGERGALA® are exclusive products and only available from CIV member nurseries: Mazzoni Vivai, Tagliani Vivai and Salvi Vivai. CIV’s breeding programme continues to develop these and other varieties, aiming of maximise production benefits and organoleptic properties while addessing the challenges posed by climate change.
San Giuseppe di Comacchio
