Broccoli ranks among the top 10 imported vegetables in Barbados. To help reduce the national food import bill and support year-round local production, CARDI – in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security – has commenced a major broccoli varietal trial.

Over the past few months (May to July 2026), the team evaluated 14 broccoli varieties – including nine open-pollinated varieties sourced from the World Vegetable Center and five commercial hybrids. The study focused on evaluating heat tolerance, pest and disease resistance, and overall head quality under local climate conditions.

Open Day Highlights:
On July 23rd, 2026, CARDI hosted a successful Open Day at the trial site. In attendance were the Hon. Minister of Agriculture Dr. Shantal Monro-Knight , Permanent Secretary Ethnie Bellamy-Weekes, the Chief Agricultural Officer Paul Lucas, Ministry representatives, and key industry stakeholders, who all got a firsthand look at these high-performing, climate-resilient varieties.

Diversifying local crop production is essential for regional food security, and identifying heat-tolerant broccoli varieties brings Barbados one step closer to year-round self-sufficiency.

   

The Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Research Assistant in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados. 

Please see the Vacancy Notice and Terms of Reference for additional details.

The deadline date for receipt of applications is 1st May, 2026.