Blueleaf Cucumber Crop Guide

Blueleaf Blueleaf is a trait with which we want to distinguish some of our (new) Rijk Zwaan cucumber varieties. Although blueleaf is not a form of resistance, it is definitely a trait that helps growers to keep their crops healthier. Varieties with the blueleaf trait look healthier due to the dark-green color of the crop. Blueleaf also extends the cultivation time.

What makes blueleaf so different?
The usual resistances in familiar cucumber crops protect the plants against pests and diseases by giving them intermediate or high resistance. When a variety clearly demonstrates a higher natural resistance in practice but it cannot strictly be called a ‘resistance’, it is described as ‘field resistance’. And that is precisely what blueleaf is

Advantages of blueleaf

More Chlorophyll in the Foliage

Buleleaf varieties have greener leaves through the cultivation period. This means that the crop has, on average, more chlorophyll in its leaves than other varieties, Chlorophyll is vital for the assimilation process, Blueleaf varieties can, therefore, make better use of the available amount of light, which is good for the assimilation process in the plant.

Dealing with Temperature Changes

A greener crop is more active and is, therefore, better able to cope with the frequently occurring changes in the external climate. Sudden changes in temperature and light are dealt with better by a greener crop.

Vegetative / Generative Balance

The better balance between growth and fruit set delays yellowing of the crop for as long as possible. The crop remains active for longer and continues to produce cucumbers of good quality

Coloration of the Dark Green ‘Blue-ish Leaves’

This is the most visible aspect of a blueleaf variety, which also makes it visibility different from other varieties. Even when there is an emphatic outbreak of the yellowing virus (CYSDV) the crop remains green for longer. As for other attackers such as, for instance, fusarium and downy mildew, we know that they strike less quickly in a green crop that is growing well. The “hard green” crop is also less attractive for pests like whitefly and thrips. And last but certainly not least… working with a crop with a healthy green color is much
more enjoyable

Effciency in the Absorption of Nutrients Elements

The transport and processing of the required nutrient elements is more efficient and better distributed across all parts of the plant. Good distribution of the elements results in a better production and better product quality.

A blueleaf variety for every season

Blueleaf varieties can help you in achieving top results, and not just where CYSDV is a regional problem. That is why we advise you to keep in contact with Rijk Zwaan’s technical service. We will also keep you updated on the latest blueleaf developments via www.rijkzwaan.com

Cucumber Long Varieties : Pradera RZ F1 | Manglar RZ F1 | Sendero Rz F1 | Boreal RZ F1 | Litoral RZ F1

Cucumber Mini Variety : Alfrid RZ F1