Jan 3, 2023

New tomato virus website helps growers

Syngenta’s new webpage is designed to help growers combat Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus, known as ToBRFV.

The ToBRFV information center provides insights and solutions to reduce disease impact. The site allows growers to discover hygiene tips, updated information on resistance genetics and expert perspectives on ToBRFV in one location.

Since 2015, ToBRFV has negatively impacted tomato production. ToBRFV can steal up to 70% of fruiting yield and has been discovered in at least 35 countries around the world, with more instances occurring every year. With no end in sight for the virus, growers are searching for solutions to help minimize their risk, according to a news release.

In 2020, Syngenta released the first ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties, with the first commercial plantings in 2021, and continues with ongoing research into new and high-resistances, according to the release.

The new ToBRFV information center provides downloadable checklists, infographics, training videos and a free newsletter to enable tomato growers to protect their crops. The site allows visitors to sign-up to be the first to know about ToBRFV updates and receive additional resources and news from Syngenta in the fight against the devastating virus.

“Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus has a significant impact on growers,” Ruud Kaagman, Syngenta Vegetable Seeds’ global crop unit head, tomatoes said in the release. “In fact, growers can lose up to 70% of their produce due to the virus, and it’s spreading rapidly. Therefore, broad resistance will be built into our portfolio during the next several years.”

Research for additional new resistances, including new modes of action, is ongoing. Until then, there are practical steps growers can take to reduce the spread of this virus. Syngenta’s ToBRFV information center provides tips and tricks to protect tomatoes around the world.

Because ToBRFV transmits easily on clothing, accessories, equipment, and tools, it’s vitally important to follow stringent standards to minimize the risk of spreading the virus from greenhouse to greenhouse or field to field, according to the release.

Site visitors will find easy-to-explain information about what ToBRFV is to help train employees and guests of the importance of preventing the virus. In addition, operators will find deeper details about what the virus is, where it has spread, and what Syngenta is doing to partner with growers, including a video and downloadable checklist and infographic.

The resources can be downloaded, printed and posted to inform employees and guests of best practices to keep tomato crops safe. The material is available in English with additional languages scheduled for the coming months.