The launch of Baya Solara “sets new standard”, according to Bayer, and reinforces its commitment to providing growers with innovative solutions
Bayer has announced the launch of Baya Solara, the first commercial strawberry variety from the company’s De Ruiter brand.
Bayer said the launch was a “vital part of its strategic expansion into the strawberry market” and follows the company’s acquisition of the strawberry assets of UK-based NIAB in 2023.
“The introduction of the new variety reinforces Bayer’s commitment to providing innovative solutions to protected culture growers and sets a new standard in soft fruit cultivation,” the company stated.
Strawberries are among the fastest-growing fruit crops, the company pointed out, with year-round demand exceeding supply.
“Our new variety Baya Solara is an exciting June-bearing cultivar and delivers impressive productivity and strong resistance to diseases like Phytophthora cactorum without compromising fruit quality,” said Swanny Chouteau, portfolio lead for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region at Bayer’s Crop Science division. “With this launch, we are targeting northern Europe’s rapidly growing protected cropping sector and offer growers new opportunities.”
Baya Solara is characterised by large, uniform fruits and is designed to reduce post-harvest darkening. The strawberry offers a pleasant sweetness with a balanced sugar-acid ratio, Bayer said.
“In addition, this early-mid season June-bearer variety is designed to show significant improvement against common diseases, including Phytophthora cactorum, a fungal disease that causes the strawberries’ crown to rot,” it revealed. “This genetic resistance is vital for ensuring the long-term viability of strawberry production.”
VK Kishore, head of global product innovation for vegetables at Bayer’s Crop Science division, said Baya Solara offered many benefits.
“For growers, it means a more productive and reliable harvest,” he said. “For retailers, it delivers consistent, large, firm fruits with excellent shelf life, reducing waste and ensuring dependable quality. For families, it offers delicious strawberries that stay fresh longer, helping them reduce waste and enjoy every berry.”
Baya Solara is set to become available to growers in the UK, Germany and Benelux, the first to be commercially launched since the NIAB acquisition, and complements six other strawberry varieties, including Malling Ace and Malling Centenary.
