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Parentage
Irresistible (formerly EM1294), was bred at East Malling Research and first selected
in 2001. It is a complex hybrid derived from lines originating from North America and
Europe. The pedigree includes the varieties Rosie, Eros, Rapella and Selva.
Fruit Quality
The fruit is attractive with a very regular conical shape, strong red colour and glossy
skin finish. The berries are firm with good shelf life but can have fragile skin in hot
weather. Eating quality is excellent with a juicy texture and very pleasant, sweet flavour.
Yield and Fruit Size
In trials the yield has been slightly lower than Elsanta with better average fruit size
and a high percentage of Class1 fruit. Irresistible performs well from a misted tip plant
but yields have been variable when it has been grown in the 60 day system.
Season and cropping pattern
The season is slightly earlier than Elsanta, with a similar cropping pattern
Marketing Suitability
Because of the excellent eating quality but slightly fragile skin, Irresistible is most
suitable for direct sales, PYO and the amateur market.
Plant Characteristics
Plants are vigorous with an erect habit and the flowers are held above the canopy. Runner
production is good.
Disease resistance
Irresistible is moderately resistant to crown rot (Phytophthora cactorum) but susceptible
to wilt (Verticillium dahliae) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera aphanis).
Use of the variety
Irresistible is suitable for outdoor or tunnel production and is most appropriate for
markets where eating quality is the primary concern.
Accreditations
The breeding of this variety was jointly funded by the
Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), MEIOSIS
Ltd and the East Malling Trust for Horticultural Research. The
trialling of this variety was funded by MEIOSIS Ltd and the
Horticultural Development Council (HDC).
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