NETHERLANDS – Enza Zaden, a major player in the vegetable breeding industry, has officially opened a new hydroponic breeding facility in Enkhuizen.

This facility, designed to support the development of advanced hydroponic lettuce varieties, is equipped with cutting-edge technology that replicates commercial growing environments.

By using a mobile gully system, the facility allows plants to move along tracks, automatically spacing each lettuce plant as it grows to maximize efficiency and output.

The hydroponic greenhouse is specially constructed to meet the demands of Enza Zaden’s diverse breeding programs, enabling researchers to conduct a wide array of trials with more than 67 active lettuce projects this year alone.

At the recent Discovery Field Days in Twisk, Enza Zaden showcased its latest lettuce varieties, featuring Bremia-resistant iceberg lettuce for outdoor growth and various hydroponic lettuces that flourish in high-density settings.

“This facility represents a pivotal advancement in our efforts to produce hydroponic lettuce varieties that meet quality and performance expectations,” stated an Enza Zaden spokesperson.

“Our focus on sustainability is reflected in this investment, as we aim to provide reliable solutions that address the modern challenges of farming.”

With over a decade invested in supporting hydroponic lettuce production, Enza Zaden emphasizes research and development, prioritizing resilience and environmental impact reduction.

The company’s breeding techniques combine traditional and modern methods, ensuring crops are resilient, high-yielding, and flavorful.

Enza Zaden’s breeding programs incorporate genetic technology and a focus on essential traits like disease resistance, which are crucial for meeting high standards in today’s market.

This commitment to research has bolstered Enza Zaden’s position in the global agricultural market. Established in 1938, the company is headquartered in the Netherlands but operates in over 25 countries.

Its global reach allows it to support food security worldwide by providing high-quality vegetable seeds that perform across different climates and agricultural conditions.

The new facility’s focus on high-density cultivation, along with Enza Zaden’s sustainable breeding methods, aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly agricultural practices.

The company’s breeding efforts aim to reduce inputs like water and pesticides, improving the environmental impact of hydroponic and traditional farming alike.

Additionally, by focusing on crop traits that enhance shelf life and transportation efficiency, Enza Zaden helps reduce food waste in the supply chain.

Alongside breeding advancements, Enza Zaden collaborates with local farmers, research institutions, and government entities to support innovation in agriculture.

The company actively trains and assists farmers, helping them adopt effective practices to achieve higher yields.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.