In the north of Israel tomatoes are grown, which practically do not need watering. New varieties require 90% less water in comparison with analogues.
It is worth noting that the novelty is able to survive the drought and heat. However, the gustatory qualities of this variety have not yet been disclosed. 40 thousand bushes and 200 varieties - such a variety in the experimental fields of Israeli scientists.
"For fruit, you need to water the bushes. But we are wondering whether it is possible to achieve the same result by limiting some varieties in the water. As soon as we find out which variety this hard regime can withstand, we will immediately move on to the next stage of research, "Sata Mits Kosh told the agronomist.
The task to deduce drought-resistant tomatoes scientists received within the framework of the European research project. Specialists decided not to deal with GM varieties and turn to the resources of nature: "We study natural biodiversity, we identify in nature we need models of behavior of certain varieties, individual individuals, and then by crossing we try to bring out the kind of tomatoes we need," said agronomist Daniel He froze.
In the laboratory, 700 varieties are tested annually. The most successful ones are selected for seeds. In the base of the scientific center for the years of work accumulated 12 000 species of interesting seed material. Much attention is paid to the taste, aroma, color and texture.
Also, scientists are working on creating varieties that can naturally resist pests and diseases.