FROM LABORATORY BENCH TO FARM: TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OF VIRUS FREE GARLIC SEED TO FAMILY FARMERS OF BAHIA

Abstract

The virus free garlic seed (VFGS) was obtained from in vitro cultures of garlic shoot tips after thermotherapy. The in vitro plants were indexed for viruses and submitted to several multiplications in aphid proof screen houses under controlled phytossanitary conditions. After a series of field experiments, a garlic production system model was proposed and validated by small growers in state of Bahia. After six years of extensive fieldwork, the socioeconomic impact of the VFGS was evaluated, as well as the technology transfer model adopted. The VFGS technology improved family income, created jobs, induced the association of the growers and allowed the improvement of the growers overall living conditions. Regarding the technology transfer model, the presence of a structured technical assistance, the professional training of the growers and the effective involvement of local authorities and the growers' associations in the processes led to a faster adoption of the technology.