Pacific Challenger F1
Pacific Challenger F1 is the world's first Phytophthora tolerant asparagus variety.
Phytophthora rot is an important fungal disease of asparagus in many countries of the world including North, Central and South America, England and Europe, Asia, and Australasia. The disease causes establishment failures and can reduce yields by over 50%.
Pacific Challenger trial results in several countries show the new Phytophthora-tolerant asparagus not only survive the ravages of the disease but produce higher yields than some of the best varieties currently available.
Pacific Challenger is a mid season variety.
Spears suited for processing, local or export fresh markets.
Seed of Pacific Challenger is free of Asparagus Virus 1, Asparagus Virus 2 and Tobacco Streak Virus.
An extended bed life using Pacific Challenger, results in a cost saving to the grower.
For maximum yields, a planting density of 35-40,000 plants/ha is recommended.
Plant at 15-20 cm deep.
What is the difference between
Pacific Challenger 1 and 2?
Here we listen to Dr Peter Falloon explain the differences between the two hybrids of Pacific Challenger; both are resistant to Phytophthora however, as Pacific Challenger 1 was never released commercially, it has been discarded.
We now only sell Pacific Challenger 2, as PACIFIC CHALLENGER
"The main standout of this variety,
is the quality of the spear"
"A really tight, good quality tip"
-Sam Rainey from Mangaweka Asparagus, Mangaweka NZ
Sam is the current Chair of the NZ Asparagus Council and grows 80 Ha of asparagus. He has new plantings of Pacific Challenger and he is extremely happy with what he sees. Take a listen to his honest, grower feedback.
"Very consistent diameter"
"Nice tight tip"
"I fully recommend this variety"
- Geoff Lewis from Lewis farms, Horowhenua NZ
Geoff is one of the largest growers of asparagus in New Zealand. He is so happy with Pacific Challenger, he sent us another video, telling us why he continues to plant it. Have a listen to see what he say.