Breeding takes time, and it takes several years to develop a new variety. However, there are ways to accelerate the development of new varieties. At De Ruiter (part of Bayer Crop Science's Vegetables division), they have recently started using the 'fast-track' method, which allows them to make new varieties available more quickly. Brenda van Diejen, trade partnership specialist, and Leonie Hogendonk, tomato product specialist at De Ruiter, explain what this entails.
These tomatoes are the result of Bayer Seeds Vegetables' fast-track method. They are available for tasting.
ToBRFV accelerates speed
First, why would you want fast-track varieties? This is partly due to ToBRFV. Brenda says, "Breeders found themselves pressured to bring resistant varieties to the market. However, too much focus was put on said resistance, which meant other aspects were left behind if not outright compromised. With the fast-track method, we want to prevent that by doing more simultaneously and at an accelerated pace."
But what does that mean, fast-track? After all, one cannot speed up nature. "The processes around it can be accelerated, though. Think of taste tests, cultivation trials, and consulting with the market. With those things, you don't have to wait until a new variety is fully developed. By working closely together in teams from different departments within the company, you can make decisions about new varieties at an earlier stage. It's really top-level sport, but then you eventually go as fast as Max Verstappen," Brenda says with a laugh.
Maarten Breugem, Jari Boerboom, Leonie Hoogendonk, Aad van Dijk, Kees van Lennig, Peter Custers, and Brenda van Diejen.
Fast-track varieties are on their way
The new approach at De Ruiter, where the focus for now is on the most sought-after types and not so much on niche specialties like Coeur de Boeuf, is bearing fruit. Because years have been 'nibbled off' the entire process, four new tomato varieties can be launched this year. Shortly thereafter, the company expects more new varieties to follow.
For more information:
Brenda van Diejen
Bayer Crop Science
brenda.vandiejen@bayer.com