**********************************************************
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (July 5) introduced a new variety of organic watermelon and two improved organic vegetable varieties - a green pak choi and a long green pepper.
The new organic watermelon, named Yellow Siren, was introduced from Vietnam. The watermelon has an oblong shape and striped skin while the flesh is orange yellow and seeded but very crispy and juicy.
The green pak choi, Feng Rong, is from Taiwan. This variety has light green stalks that are broad and flat. It is a versatile plant that can be consumed boiled or stir-fried.
The long green pepper, Coral, is a locally bred variety. The skin is jade-green with thick flesh and is better suited to pan-frying or stir-frying.
All three varieties grow well under Hong Kong summer conditions 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 they have also tried their hand at growing these new varieties on their farms. Their produce is now being harvested and has become available in the local market.
¡@¡@
To encourage farmers to expand their customer base and share their yields, the AFCD and the Federation of Vegetable Marketing Co-operative Societies Ltd will hold the Local Organic Watermelon Festival at Tuen Mun Farmers' Market this Saturday and Sunday (July 6 and 7). 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/Friday, July 5, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:59
NNNN
