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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (July 5) introduced a new variety of organic watermelon and other improved organic vegetables ﷿ a round eggplant and a long horn pepper.
The new organic watermelon, named "Sky Orchid", was introduced from Taiwan. The watermelon has a perfectly spherical shape and striped skin while the flesh is yellow and seeded but very crispy, juicy and sweet.
The round eggplant, "Fullness", is also from Taiwan, with a spherical shape and purple-black skin. Its flesh is finely textured.
The long horn pepper "Jade" is a locally bred variety. The skin is jade-green with thick flesh and good flavour.
All three varieties grow well in the Hong Kong summer and promise high yields of quality fruit. The response from both farmers and the market has been encouraging.
In recent years, the AFCD has given technical guidance to organic farmers on growing different varieties of vegetables, and the farmers have tried their hand at growing these new varieties on their farms. With good harvests, their produce will be available in the local market.
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To encourage farmers to expand their customer base and share their yields, the AFCD and the Federation of Vegetable Marketing Co-operative Societies Ltd (FVMCS) will organise a Local Organic Watermelon Festival at Tuen Mun Farmers' Market this Saturday and Sunday (July 7 and 8). In addition to the above-mentioned varieties, other seasonal local premium organic produce will also be on sale.
Tuen Mun Farmers' Market is located at Crossroads Village, 2 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun (opposite Gold Coast Phase I), and is open from 10am to 4pm every Saturday. Admission is free.
For details of the Local Organic Watermelon Festival and arrangements under inclement weather conditions, please visit www.afcd.gov.hk.
The AFCD will continue to promote organic cultivation of premium fruit and vegetables to meet growing market demand.
Ends/Thursday, July 5, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:47
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