State evaluates new varieties of berries to expand agricultural production, test genetic adaptations, and create new opportunities for Ceará producers
Ceará has initiated a new phase of agricultural research focused on the cultivation of berries, also known as red fruits. Additionally, the studies are concentrated in the Serra da Ibiapaba and later in the Chapada do Apodi, focusing on varieties such as strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry.
Initially, the tests were directed to the Serra da Ibiapaba, where the first results indicated good adaptation of the strawberry. Thus, the region showed productivity close to major international hubs, like Spain and Portugal, with about 1.5 kg per plant.
Furthermore, the initiative seeks to identify which cultivars perform best under different climate, soil, and agricultural management conditions. Therefore, the evaluation considers the relationship between genetics and environment.
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Research involves partnership between the Government of Ceará and Emco Cal Company
In October 2025, the Government of Ceará, through the Secretariat of Economic Development (SDE), advanced in partnership with the Emco Cal Company to test new varieties of berries in the State.
Thus, the action began to evaluate genetic materials aimed at increasing agricultural productivity and adapting crops in different regions of Ceará.
Moreover, the Emco Cal Company, specialized in developing genetic solutions for berry cultivation, provided licensed varieties for testing with partner producers.
According to Antônio Felippe Fagherazzi, Ph.D. in plant production and manager of the company in Brazil, the goal is to identify which cultivars have the highest productive potential according to each microclimate analyzed.
Positive results of strawberry in Ibiapaba increase expectations for new crops
Besides the experience considered positive with the strawberry in Serra da Ibiapaba, the executive of Emco Cal Company highlights that the next results will be crucial to evaluate the advancement of other crops, especially the blueberry.
According to Fagherazzi, the blueberry is still in the initial testing phase and requires a longer observation period due to its longer development cycle.
Moreover, the specialist emphasizes that there is a great demand from Ceará producers interested in participating in tests with new berry crops.
Thus, the high demand demonstrates the agricultural sector’s interest in seeking production alternatives with higher added value and commercial potential.
Chapada do Apodi will be the next region evaluated for berry cultivation
Subsequently, tests will be expanded to Chapada do Apodi, in the east of Ceará. The region already has a tradition in fruit growing, mainly with crops such as melon, papaya, and watermelon.
In this way, the location will be evaluated to verify the adaptation of new varieties, including strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry.
Additionally, factors such as substrate, soil, irrigation, and production methods will be analyzed. Therefore, the results may guide producers on the best cultivation practices.
Strawberry shows faster results while blueberry remains under evaluation
Currently, the strawberry is the crop with the most advanced results in Ceará. This is because the fruit has a faster production cycle, with harvest estimated between 40 and 50 days after planting.
On the other hand, the blueberry requires more validation time. Thus, researchers continue to evaluate its response under different environmental conditions.
Moreover, studies compare cultivation systems in open fields and protected environments, such as greenhouses, aiming to identify the most efficient models.
International market increases interest in red fruits
In recent years, the growth in demand for foods associated with healthy eating has increased the valuation of berries in the international market.
Therefore, Ceará evaluates these crops as an opportunity to expand agricultural production with products of higher commercial value.
According to Fagherazzi, the strawberry is currently the most widespread berry, while other varieties may gain space in Brazil.
Additionally, açaí is also considered a berry, showing the potential for expansion of this group of fruits in the national market.
The information was presented during PEC Brasil 2026, held between June 25 and 27, at the Ceará Events Center.
On the occasion, the coordinator of Water Resources of the Economic Development Secretariat of Ceará, Erildo Pontes, stated that the State is interested in developing at least four crops: blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, and blueberry.
Thus, the tests represent a strategy of agricultural diversification, genetic innovation, and the creation of new opportunities for rural producers in Ceará.
