After introducing two ToLCNDV resistant zucchini varieties for indoor cultivation (Alpha and Delfos) in 2023, Syngenta is launching its new 'ND Protected' range, this time for outdoor cultivation. The range has been nominated for SIVAL Innovation 2025.
SCVE22-2031 and SCVE22-2028
"It can even destroy the crop before the first harvest"
Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV), more commonly known as New Delhi virus, which is spread by the whitefly vector Bemisia tabaci, is very common in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece and Morocco, and was first detected on tomato plants in India. In France, it was discovered in the Occitanie and PACA regions in 2020 (5 cases reported in the Bouches du Rhône and Gard regions in 2022 and cases reported again in the Bouches du Rhône in 2023, according to the PACA Chamber of Agriculture). This virus particularly affects cucurbits, especially zucchinis, cucumbers and melons. In practice, the symptoms are rolled and curled leaves, swollen veins, yellow mosaic, stunted plants and poor fruit set. While virus pressure can be high in under-roof conditions, it is also high in open fields. Once established, it can lead to significant yield and quality losses. "If attacked too early, it can even destroy the crop before the first harvest," explains Marie Pelissier, customer experience specialist at Syngenta. Although it is difficult to calculate the incidence rate, given the random nature of the virus, it is estimated to have caused "significant damage" in field crops by 2023.
A new range combining resistance and yields
Because ToLCNDV has become a major concern for zucchini producers, Syngenta has decided to launch a new range called ND Protected "which combines resistance and yield." It comprises the SCVE22-2028 variety (yield and safety against New Delhi in the field) and the SCVE22-2031 variety (vigour and resistance to New Delhi). These varieties are resistant not only to ToLCNDV, but also "to a number of viruses that have historically been present in France (ZYMV, WMV, PRSV, Gc-Px), and we have noticed that they are also very productive."
These new varieties offer zucchini growers a number of advantages:
- Increased crop safety: resistance to ToLCNDV significantly reduces the risk of losses
- Optimised yields: high production levels maintained even in the presence of the virus
- Superior quality: high-quality fruit that meets the requirements of the most demanding markets
- Ease of cultivation: open-growing plants for easy harvesting and maintenance
- Sustainability: a more sustainable approach to cultivation, with the potential to reduce the need for treatments.
For more information:
Syngenta
[email protected]
https://www.syngenta.fr/