DOWNER GROVE, IL - Syngenta Vegetable Seeds is utilizing its expertise to uncover new advantages for the tomato category. As Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) has negatively impacted tomato production since 2015, the seed provider is helping growers minimize risk with the help of its new ToBRFV Information Center.

“Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus has a significant impact on growers,” said Ruud Kaagman, Global Crop Unit Head, Tomatoes at Syngenta Vegetable Seeds. “In fact, growers can lose up to 70 percent of their produce due to the virus, and it’s spreading rapidly. Therefore, broad resistance will be built into our portfolio during the next several years.”

Syngenta Vegetable Seeds’ ToBRFV Information Center provides tips and tricks to protect tomatoes around the world. Visitors are invited to sign up to be among the first to know about ToBRFV updates and get additional resources and news from Syngenta in the fight against the virus.

Syngenta first brought ToBRFV-resistant tomatoes to the market in 2020, with the first commercial plantings in 2021, and this resource builds on its commitment to providing reliable solutions for growers.

As the company noted in a recent release, research for additional new resistances, including new modes of action, is ongoing, but there are currently practical steps growers can take to reduce the spread of this virus.

The ToBRFV Resource page provides helpful tips for reducing transmission risk, including a video and downloadable checklist and infographic that can be posted in greenhouse spaces to inform employees and guests of best practices to maintain the safety of tomato crops. Visitors will also find easy-to-explain information about what ToBRFV is to help train employees and guests on the importance of preventing the virus.

As Syngenta brings forth this vital resource for our industry, what growth will we witness in the tomato sector? Stay tuned to ANUK to find out.

Syngenta Vegetable Seeds