By Folaranmi Ajayi
The Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, says it is ready to guide farmers in the cultivation of F1 bell peppers through its vegetable production centre.
Professor Ayo Olalusi, the team lead for vegetable production, revealed this during the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adenike Oladiji’s visit to the Greenhouse Research Farm on Monday, 21 October 2024.
Olalusi explained that the F1 bell pepper is an early ripening hybrid with numerous benefits over traditional varieties. It features a bushy growth habit that requires no staking, high disease resistance, a sweet flavour, and fruits that measure 10-11cm in width and 11-12cm in length, weighing between 250-280g. He noted that the pepper can only be propagated in a greenhouse environment, and FUTA is committed to guiding farmers on both small-scale and large-scale cultivation.
Professor Olalusi also highlighted FUTA’s intention to continue greenhouse cultivation for its immediate environment and explore partnerships for large-scale production to generate revenue.
Vice Chancellor Oladiji praised the greenhouse team for their efforts and expressed her vision for expanding the unit. She revealed plans to construct larger greenhouses with the help of university engineers and fabricators, aiming to train individuals in the cultivation of bell peppers, F1 tomatoes, and other crops, contributing to the fight against food scarcity.
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