As ToBRFV continues to pose a serious threat to growers worldwide, Rijk Zwaan’s Rugose Defense label has established itself as a reliable option
Since its introduction, Rugose Defense has become a trusted label for tomato growers worldwide who seek reliable protection against Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).
Developed through years of dedicated breeding, these varieties with high resistance (HR) combine crop security with the strong agronomic performance growers expect from Rijk Zwaan.
Rugose Defense varieties are tested under practical conditions where the virus is present, demonstrating consistent and dependable performance.
Trials with high infection levels have shown a clear difference: while susceptible varieties displayed strong symptoms and yield losses, Rugose Defense varieties remained healthy and productive.
These results confirm the reliability of Rijk Zwaan genetics in real‑world growing environments.
Agronomical value and flexibility
Beyond resistance, Rugose Defense varieties also deliver strong agronomical value.
Each hybrid combines high resistance with excellent yield, fruit quality and balanced growth, ensuring both productivity and crop stability.
Because our Rugose Defense scions are compatible with all commercially available rootstocks, growers can integrate them easily into existing production systems and maintain flexibility in their crop strategy.
Effective ToBRFV management goes beyond genetics alone. While high resistance provides a strong foundation, good hygiene and clean starting materials remain essential to minimise the risk.
There are currently no tomato varieties with complete immunity, which makes prevention just as important as resistance.
By combining Rugose Defense genetics with disciplined crop hygiene, growers achieve the most reliable long-term protection and stable crop performance.
Continuous development
Rijk Zwaan’s breeding teams are continuously developing new and improved Rugose Defense varieties across various tomato types and market segments.
These efforts demonstrate the company’s long-term commitment to people, innovation and sustainable production.
The goal is not only to help growers safeguard their yields, but also to secure consistent availability and quality for supply chain and retail partners.
We see that the conversation has moved beyond managing a virus inside the greenhouse. It’s increasingly about ensuring reliable production and confidence across the entire value chain.
With Rugose Defense, Rijk Zwaan continues to strengthen trust and collaboration across the tomato value chain from seed to shelf.
Click here to register for Fruitnet Tomato Congress, which takes place in Granada on 5-6 November
