Seed-to-Pulp Watermelon Harvested for the First Time in Fukuoka Prefecture

The first-ever harvest of "seed-to-pulp edible watermelon" in Fukuoka Prefecture has been achieved, using pollen called "TANEFREE" produced by ORECK Co., Ltd.

The cultivation was carried out by a group of farmers from Akimachi, Tagawa District, and Fukuchi Town in Fukuoka Prefecture. Last year's attempt failed due to damage caused by raccoon dogs (tanuki), but this year, in their second season, they successfully harvested approximately 100 watermelons.

About TANEFREE

TANEFREE is a watermelon pollen product sold by ORECK. When pollinated onto female flowers of regular watermelons, it transforms the normally hard, black seeds into soft, white ones, enabling the cultivation of watermelons that can be eaten entirely, seeds and all.

Moreover, because energy that would typically go into seed development is redirected toward fruit growth, the resulting melons tend to have enhanced sweetness and improved flavor. Farmers have reported positive feedback, describing the melons as "juicy with a consistently sweet aftertaste."

Unlike conventional seedless watermelons, TANEFREE can be applied directly to existing watermelon varieties, preserving their original aroma and texture while adding value—a key advantage of this method.

Cultivation of TANEFREE Watermelons Through Regional Collaboration

This initiative began through an introduction by Goto Shoten in Kurume City, leading to collaboration with JA Bank's agricultural support programs. Around four farmers from Akimachi and Fukuchi Town participated, taking on the challenge of cultivating TANEFREE watermelons—the first such effort in Fukuoka Prefecture. Working together, they managed a single greenhouse, aiming for a successful harvest.

Rather than using the common open-field method of unrestricted vine growth, the farmers adopted a more labor-intensive cultivation technique learned through training in Kumamoto: a three-vine system with one fruit per plant. This marks the first time that TANEFREE watermelons have been cultivated using a full-scale greenhouse approach.

Overcoming Raccoon Dog Damage to Achieve Fukuoka's First Harvest

In fact, this effort has been ongoing since last year.

Last season, just before harvest, the crops were destroyed by raccoon dog infestation, preventing any harvest.

Despite this setback, the farmers persisted and attempted again this year. Using the variety "Rakou The Sweet," they successfully achieved the first harvest in Fukuoka Prefecture of approximately 100 watermelons grown using "TANEFREE" pollen.

Expanding the Potential of TANEFREE Across the Region

The harvested TANEFREE watermelons are scheduled to be sold as specialty products of Akimachi. Some will also be available at Nankoku Fruits, located within the Iwataya Main Store. Moving forward, there are high expectations for further development of new agricultural products leveraging regional resources.

ORECK Co., Ltd. will continue to collaborate with farmers and local communities to expand the possibilities of agriculture using TANEFREE, while supporting the ongoing challenges of producers.

Inquiries Regarding This Matter

ORECK Holdings Corporation Management Headquarters E-mail: kouhou@orec.co.jp