Launching Iceberg varieties with

Intermediate Resistance to Nasonovia Nr:1

At Enza Zaden, we’re excited to introduce four new iceberg lettuce varieties that bring Intermediate Resistance (IR) to the Nr:1 biotype of Nasonovia ribisnigri, better known as the lettuce aphid. This pest has been a persistent challenge for growers, damaging crops, spreading viruses, and reducing yields. With EU regulations phasing out chemical pesticides, growers are left with limited options for pest control.

The emergence of the Nr:1 biotype in 2007 broke previous resistance (Nr:0), posing a serious threat to lettuce cultivation. Our new varieties not only combat this threat with IR to Nr:1, but also include Full Bremia resistance (Bl:29-41EU) and HR: Nr:0, offering a comprehensive protection package.

Protection starts from within

“With Nasonovia Nr:1 resistance, protection starts from within,” said Paul Huijs, Product manager for Iceberg in Europe. “Our iceberg varieties with Nr:1 Intermediate Resistance offer producers a valuable tool to reduce aphid pressure in integrated production cycles. By combining built-in resistance with other aphid control tools such as crop protection solutions, our Nr:1 (IR) resistant varieties support growers with a more complete and sustainable strategy against Nasonovia, giving them confidence that their crops can meet retailer and processors standards, even as tolerance for aphid presence tightens.”

These new intermediate resistant varieties bring meaningful advantages across the entire supply chain. For producers, they help reduce rejections from retailers and processors. Chain partners benefit from improved product quality and longer shelf life, while consumers enjoy cleaner, healthier lettuce that meets the highest standards for freshness and safety.

See it for yourself at Discovery Field Days

We’re showcasing these new varieties at our annual Discovery Field Days. Customers will get a firsthand look at how our latest iceberg genetics perform under real growing conditions. You’ll see the full protection package in action, IR Nr:1, HR Nr:0, and Full Bremia resistance, and understand how these innovations support cleaner, healthier, and more resilient crops.

Want to learn more? Visit our Nasonovia dedicated landing page here or reach out to your local Enza Zaden representative.