Arava Researchers Develop Pepper Variety That Withstands 45°C Heat

Researchers at the Yair Research Station in Hatzeva have developed a new pepper variety that withstands greenhouse temperatures of 45°C and above. Greenhouses in the Central Arava can reach 45°C to 50°C as the agricultural season begins, forcing farmers to start at dawn and stop during the hottest midday hours. The director of Central and Northern Arava-Tamar R&D visited the trial greenhouse Thursday as the variety was tested. The breeding project is intended to protect crop continuity and yields as extreme heat intensifies with climate change.