Research
Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and kohlrabi are all representative of Brassica oleracea.
They are important food crops both commercially and nutritionally. They are important sources of vitamins, fibre and secondary metabolites, in particular carotenoids, phenols and glucosinolates, which are known for their antioxidant activity and for their anti-carcinogenic attributes.
This project will explore the genetic diversity across Brassica oleracea using carefully selected crop lines, land races and crop wild relatives. Using genetic markers to select for elite traits under organic conditions we will breed for lines resistant to drought, waterlogging, low N input and tolerance to pests and diseases. The ideal crop should also comply with needs from the food industry and consumers.