Santa Catarina, Brazil becomes a sustainable production center for pitaya

A rapid rise in pitaya production in the Extreme South of Santa Catarina, Brazil, over the past decade has positioned the region as a major contributor to the country's pitaya market. Initially started as an alternative to tobacco cultivation, the industry has seen significant growth, with 200 hectares cultivated by 200 families in 2020, accounting for 90% of Santa Catarina's production. The 2021 harvest is projected to reach 1,000 tons, marking a 60% increase from the previous year. This success is largely due to the sustainable cultivation practices promoted by the State Government through Epagri and the support of local cooperatives. Nearly all producers have adopted technologies based on the Direct Vegetable Planting System, such as the use of cover crops and organic fertilization. The industry's shift towards organic production is further bolstered by the crop's compatibility with this system, with cooperatives like Cooperja and Coopervalesul playing a crucial role in market expansion and international export efforts.