Vigna MACARETTI

Technical Profile of Makaretti Vigna

The Makaretti cowpea variety, developed by Gavrish and VNIISSOK, is engineered specifically for the fresh market segment. Its biological design prioritizes pod quality and exceptional length over traditional compact bean characteristics.

Morphological Development

Classified as a bush type with a height ranging from 150 to 300 cm, the plant requires structural support (trellises) to maximize yield efficiency. This vertical architecture is necessary to ensure adequate airflow and to prevent mechanical damage to the exceptionally long pods, which would otherwise touch the soil.

Pod Specifications and Functional Traits

• Pod dimensions: 60–100 cm in length. This metric represents the core value proposition of the variety, demanding precise harvest timing to maintain shelf appeal.
• Tissue integrity: The absence of parchment layers and fibrous vascular bundles ensures a tender mouthfeel. The pods maintain their soft texture even as they reach their maximum physiological length.
• Market application: Dedicated exclusively to the fresh market, the variety requires careful post-harvest handling due to the length and tenderness of the beans.

From an agronomical standpoint, Makaretti requires consistent soil moisture management. Because the energy investment for developing a 1-meter long pod is significant, irrigation stress can lead to pod deformation and premature tissue hardening, directly reducing the percentage of marketable produce.