DUCATO

French breeding for professional results

The Ducato pepper from Vilmorin-Mikado is a benchmark for what a modern blocky pepper for commercial production should look like. Unlike many hybrids that chase weight alone, this variety strikes a delicate balance between plant vigor and fruit quality. French breeders prioritized stability: the 8-9 mm wall thickness makes this pepper highly sought after in retail, as it withstands transport exceptionally well and retains its marketability during storage.

Key advantages and features

• Viral resistance: A major pain point for growers — viral diseases — is not a critical threat to this variety. Genetic protection against Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) allows for a successful harvest even where other hybrids fail.
• Ideal fruit architecture: The blocky, four-chambered shape weighing 200–250 grams is the "gold standard" for supermarkets. This pepper fits standard packaging perfectly and maintains an attractive appearance on the shelf.
• Cultivation flexibility: Ducato performs successfully in both open fields and plastic greenhouses. This gives farmers the flexibility to choose their cultivation strategy based on their specific climatic zone.

Who is this hybrid for?

This variety is an optimal choice for farms focused on the fresh produce market. If your goal is to produce heavy, meaty peppers with a deep dark green color transitioning into a vibrant red, Ducato will exceed your expectations. The 75-80 day maturity period allows for easy harvest planning and ensures consistent supply throughout the season. One nuance to keep in mind is its nutritional requirements. Due to the formation of such thick-walled fruits, the plant requires high-quality potassium fertilization during the fruit-filling phase.