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| SEED PROGRAM |
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The Seed Program's main objective is to develop improved varieties of soya and sweet corn. Since 1997, rice research has started and soya activities have diminished. This decision was reached taking into account local lack of interest in developing the soya crop in Honduras.
Regarding soya, the most notable contribution of the program has been the development of the varieties FHIA-15 y FHIA 24-1 that produce better yields than that of the traditional varieties.
Regarding sweet corn, although on a limited scale, the hybrid FHIA-H25 is already supplying the local market with fresh corn. The export potential of this crop to the United States market is very good. Because of this, the local hybrid FHIA-H25 and other new products are being improved in their adaptation, yields and quality.
Although rice is a new addition to the program, FHIA is presently analyzing 18 commercial varieties from Central America and Panama in order to obtain a commercial prototype in the near future. Other new experimental materials have been introduced from Central America, Columbia and Arkansas, United States that are presently being analyzed and will be tested with the next plantings. The Rice Project will investigate the limiting production factors of this grain and generate varieties and technologies that will be transferred to farmers.
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