Pumpkins are a very important crop in Chile, South America. They are used daily in many types of traditional foods and consumers value the flesh, colour and flavour. For generations, Chilean famers have planted the traditional Zapallo de Guarda (storage pumpkin).
This is an open-pollinated local pumpkin selected for its large fruit size, flesh and flavour. During recent years, through the efforts of our exclusive representative in Chile, Semillas Latinamericanas, the hybrid pumpkin market has been developed with great success. Two hybrids are presently offered, Paine and Buin. Both are well established in their respective segments. Now, after extensive research and development, a new hybrid is to be added to the portfolio: San Clemente. This new hybrid offers high yields per hectare, extra-large fruit size, excellent flesh colour and flavour, and a very good storage capability.
During the past season, trials were conducted in different regions. These were a great success and one of these produced 70% XL fruit size (over 10kg per fruit). This was achieved despite the trial suffering a shortage of irrigation water. The data recorded from the trials suggest that yields of 80t/Ha are possible with this variety.
San Clemente will be available from this season in Chile through the Semilla Latinamericanas dealers' network.
