14 October 2025 News
Vitalis Organic, our organic brand, showcased innovation, resistance and new organic possibilities in the demo field
During the Discovery Field Days Organic 2025, Vitalis Organic, the organic brand within the Enza Zaden family, once again opened its fields in Voorst to growers, supply chain partners, and professionals, particularly from the organic sector. From 23 to 25 September, the demo field was fully dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and resilience.
A key highlight was the introduction of new iceberg lettuce varieties with Intermediate Resistance (IR) to Nasonovia ribisnigri Nr:1+ (aphid). These varieties offer a complete resistance package: in addition to the new Nasonovia resistance, they also feature full Bremia resistance (Bl:29-41) and High Resistance (HR) to Nr:0. Enza Zaden and Vitalis Organic are actively committed to developing varieties suited to the organic market, with available organic seeds and Nasonovia resistance as a sustainable solution for the future.
Aphids can cause significant damage to crops, creating challenges for growers, the supply chain, and consumers. This intermediate resistance is seen as an important and sustainable step toward aphid-free cultivation: it provides protection from within.
More information about Nasonovia: Nasonovia Resistance
This summer, the Potyvirus emerged in red kuri squash in Northern Europe. Naturally we, Vitalis Organic, as the market leader in organic red kuri squash, paid close attention to this development. The (intermediate) resistant varieties Flexi Kuri, EZ 148, Springlight, Ker Madec, and Kaori Kuri were showcased in the field. Together with growers, the impact of the virus was discussed, along with practical tips on how to manage it.
"Growers are increasingly opting for certainty, as cultivating susceptible varieties is becoming more and more risky. This year, the added value of resistant varieties has become clearly visible."
— Jannie Dingemans, Sales Representative Squash Benelux
More information about our pumpkin portfolio
In addition to its trusted portfolio, Vitalis Organic also presented new varieties of crops such as spinach and corn salad this year. Enza Zaden believes in supporting the future of organic farming by offering solutions tailored to diverse needs. When 100% organic seeds are not yet available, Enza Zaden also offers conventional, untreated seeds. At the same time, Enza Zaden and Vitalis continuously explore future possibilities for organic seed development.
Discovery Field Days Organic are more than just a field event: they are a place for connection, knowledge sharing, and inspiration.
For more information please contact Mila van Galen