The cultivation of tropical fruits, especially avocados, has been growing in Spain for many years, and by 2022 it will cover more than 19,500 hectares in the country. Indeed, in recent years, official data has revealed an interesting development in acreage. It is noteworthy that while avocado acreage has increased by 120% since 2000, when the total acreage was 8,760 hectares, about 40% of that increase has occurred since 2019, when the total acreage was 14,100 hectares.
This important development is mainly due to pioneers such as Viveros Brokaw, who is closely associated with the growth of avocado cultivation in Spain. Founded in 1984, the company aimed to offer more profitable options to local producers. Since then, Viveros Brokaw has become the world’s leading producer of avocado plants, thereby supporting the continued expansion of the avocado crop.
However, the current situation poses significant challenges, especially in the Málaga region, Spain’s avocado-growing heartland. The current drought is not only affecting the harvest, but also the farm itself, creating uncertainty about future expansion. Despite these obstacles, Juan José Ferrer argues for the long-term viability of avocado cultivation, based on stable demand and prices.
“Patterns that are more tolerant of poor water quality are being tested. Also, to address concerns about water footprint, emphasis is being placed on increasing crop productivity. The focus is on cultivation patterns that are advantageous not only for improving productivity, but also for increasing productivity.”It is about intensive farming techniques that maximize water use efficiency. ”
“A notable trend is the growing interest in avocado cultivation in northern Spain, especially in Galicia. Changing water supplies and temperature and climate conditions are motivating growers to explore new opportunities. Antonio Guillard, commercial director of Viveros Brokaw, pointed to this growing interest and said, “The north has favorable conditions for avocado cultivation.”
“Avocados’ water consumption per hectare is comparable to that of citrus plantations, but citrus plantations don’t have the same bad reputation.”
Combating drought has become a priority for the agricultural sector, with innovative approaches to using water more efficiently. “Despite the current bad press about avocados’ water usage, consumption per hectare is on par with other crops such as citrus, which do not face similar criticism.”
In addition to avocado, other tropical fruits such as mango and passion fruit are also gaining popularity. Mangoes have excellent drought tolerance but are sensitive to cold, which limits their expansion to other regions. However, in Huelva, berry macrotunnels are being used to grow mangoes, showing that the crop is viable.
“Despite the current challenges, tropical fruit cultivation continues to develop in Spain, adapting to changing conditions and seeking new opportunities in different regions of the country,” says Antonio.
“In the province of Huelva, there has been a noticeable increase in passion fruit sales. Local varieties have been developed and are achieving excellent results. We are proud to have produced this variety in large quantities and distributed it widely. We’re proud of the state.” ”
For more information:
Viveros Brokaw
Finca Peña. Pole.state of la peña
29750 Algarrobo, Malaga, Spain
Phone number: +34 952 03 03 62
info@brokaw.es
www.viverosbrokaw.com