With its ever widening range of fruit and vegetables,
Cyprus has quite justifiably gained a reputation in international markets as
"the garden of the Mediterranean". Production of fruit and vegetables has been
further enhanced by the completion of a massive irrigation scheme which has
opened up an additional 40.000 acres of fertile coastal land.
Citrus Fruit
Cyprus offers a full range of citrus
fruit available from October to June, with many of the popular varieties of
oranges, lemons, grapefruit and soft citrus.
The reputation earned by Cyprus for high quality oranges
reflects decades of experience with this crop. The main varieties grown are
Navel, Oval and late Valencia. The fact that Cyprus has been able to maintain
and improve export volumes, underlines the careful husbandry and skilled
marketing undertaken by the growers.
Cultivation
of lemons is steeped in the history of Cyprus. The high demand for the preferred
thin-skinned, juicy Cypriot lemons has ensured that the Island maintains its
place as a major winter and spring supplier.
The Cyprus grapefruit has a high juice and sugar content
which is the result of virtually perfect growing conditions. New plantations
have been established and Cyprus has now an export capacity for both white and
red flesh grapefruit varieties.
Originally based on Clementine, Cyprus has had a long
experience in soft citrus growing. The increasing demand for easy peelers in
world markets has encouraged the expansion and adaptation of citrus production
with particular emphasis on Nova as well as the Mandora and Minneola
hybrids.
Grapes
During the months of June to September,
Cyprus is a major source of supply of table grapes to Europe. Table grapes are
grown along the coastline and on the lower mountain slopes in the area
stretching from Limassol to Pafos. Grape maturity varies by area thereby
enabling the season to be extended. The main varieties grown are Sultana
(including organic grapes), Perlette and Superior.
Vegetables
In recent years
there has been a major expansion in out of season salads and vegetables.
Particular success has been achieved in specialized items such as aubergines,
courgettes, okra, methi, coriander, taro, chillies, purslane, beans, spinach,
parsley and many others. The transportation of vegetables is effected by air or
refrigerated trucks to safeguard the freshness and high quality of the
products.
Herbs
Due to the favorable climatic conditions,
Cyprus is an ideal location for growing fresh aromatic herbs. Most of the herbs
grown are indigenous to the Island and can be found in the wild. The plentiful
sunshine and scarcity of rainfall ensure the strongest aroma of Cyprus herbs. A
wide range of fresh cut herbs is exported including basil, sage, rosemary,
marjoram, thyme, mint, anise, dill, daragon and others upon request.
Potatoes
Potatoes are by far the most
important agricultural product exported from Cyprus. All potatoes exported are
grown in the southeastern coastal region of the Island, known for its distinct
red soil. The virtually frost free environment and the deep red soil amply
supplied with water, creates ideal conditions for the production of high quality
potatoes.
The varieties grown are extremely versatile and can be used
for consumption as well as industrial purposes. Cyprus grows several varieties
of red soil potatoes. The main varieties are Spunta, Diamant, Cara, Nicola,
Marabel, Marfona, Filea, Liseta, Sieglinde and Charlotte.
Quality Control
A
Government inspection service works closely with both producers and exporters to
ensure that strict international standards are maintained. All exports conform
to EU regulations and the produce is subjected to inspection at packing house
level and ports, before the necessary phytosanitary and inspection certificates
are issued



List of Vegetables:
Cucumber
- Artichoke
- Carrots
- Courgette
- Cauliflower
- Brassica
- Onion
- Broccoli
- Lettuce
- Egg plant
- Green Peas
- Potatoes
- Sweet Pepper
- Green Sward
- Chicory
- Garlic
- pinach
- Asparagus
- Tomatoes
- Beans
- Herbs
List of Fruits:
- Grapes
- Water Melon
- Oranges
- Mandarin
- Clementine
- Mandora
- Grapefruits
- Lemon
- Lime