Genesis Seeds

growth-positive

Researchers at Bar-Ilan University, in partnership with Genesis Seeds, have developed a hybrid basil that is highly resistant to Downy Mildew, a fungus-like pathogen that causes severe damage to sweet basil crops worldwide. The new species, named Prospera, does not require pesticides and could alleviate concerns of farmers globally. Israel, a major winter exporter of fresh herbs, has been particularly affected by Downy Mildew, which arrived in the country in 2011. The research and methods used in this development could assist phytopathologists in combating other diseases affecting the agricultural world.

growth-positive

A few years ago, a group of young immigrants to Israel, most in their first years after making aliyah, believed they could transform an ugly, trash-strewn, vacant lot in one of Beersheba’s troubled neighborhoods into a flourishing vegetable garden. They created a non-profit corporation called Earths Promise and managed to attract sufficient funding to get started. The City of Beersheba gave its consent for the creation of a community garden on city property, and Absorption Ministry officials all down the line not only agreed to the project, but in time, became highly enthusiastic about it. The garden has been a success and has helped struggling new immigrants from Ethiopia build meaningful new lives.