Turkmen scientists are developing a new pumpkin variety for mass production in the unique climatic conditions of the Dashoguz velayat to enhance agricultural output and food diversity, as reported by official media of Turkmenistan on Monday.
Maral Orazbayeva, a senior lecturer at the Department of Plant Growing at the Turkmen Agricultural Institute and a candidate of agricultural sciences, leads this effort with her colleagues. They aim to breed a variety through selection and hybridization that features high yields, rich flavor, disease resistance, and adaptability to various soils. Selected breeding material includes Adaty, Muscat, and Uly miweli kädi.
Over two years, seeds from the crossing were experimentally planted in the institute’s educational farm. During the growing season, parameters such as germination, temperature requirements, humidity, light, water consumption, and maturation times were monitored. Work on the variety continues.
If successful, this new variety could expand the range of pumpkin types—both domestic and foreign—grown in the northern part of the country. Notably, Bal kädi, or honey pumpkin, and Palow kädi, the muscat pumpkin, are particularly popular.
The Turkmen Agricultural Institute actively addresses government tasks aimed at increasing production, enhancing breeding and seed production, improving agricultural practices, and enhancing land conditions.
