Aleksandrit

French breeding for professionals: the experience of growing «Alexandrit»

When working with chicory, crop stability is always a top priority. «Alexandrit» from Florimond-Desprez Veuve et Fils is a prime example of how French breeding mitigates the toughest risks. In the field, this variety shows the consistency that agronomists value: the root has a uniform conical shape, which is critical for mechanized harvesting and efficient processing.

Disease protection as the foundation of profitability

The main headache in chicory production is the infection pressure. «Alexandrit» stands out among competitors due to its resilience against aggressive pathogens. Operating in fields prone to rhizomania, cercospora, or powdery mildew typically requires massive fungicide expenditures. Here, we see significant savings on plant protection products: the variety holds up without sacrificing the quality of the marketable mass. This reduction in the number of sprays directly impacts the cost of production.

Versatility in application

Visually, «Alexandrit» features a blend of green and cream tones. It is highly prized for its 18% inulin content, which is a top-tier metric for processing facilities. However, the variety is equally successful in the fresh produce market. Its leafy characteristics make it an ideal choice for salad mixes. During washing and packaging, it demonstrates excellent shelf life and market appearance, which is vital for minimizing waste during retail distribution.

• Manageability: The variety is low-maintenance regarding growing conditions but responds well to proper agronomic practices.
• Processing: Consistent inulin levels simplify workflow for production technologists.
• Fresh Market: Attractive appearance and taste profile make it highly sought after in the HoReCa segment and supermarkets.

If you are looking for a balance between disease resistance and high inulin concentration, «Alexandrit» by Florimond-Desprez is the optimal choice to meet the demands of both the food industry and the fresh salad market.