Nearly 900 professional growers, processors and retail industry leaders from more than 50 countries gathered in Grootebroek, the Netherlands, for Fields of Innovation 2026. With more than 600 vegetable varieties showcased in open-field demonstration plots and exhibition areas, the event provided a platform for networking, international connections and discussion around the latest developments in vegetable innovation.
Reducing yield-loss risks
Reducing the risk of yield loss remains a key priority for growers. Under the theme ‘Maximise every Acre’, Syngenta Vegetable Seeds presented its second-generation clubroot-resistant brassicas, covering Pb:2 in addition to Pb:0, 1 and 3.
Alongside the field demonstrations, experts showcased Syngenta’s first onion with High Resistance to Downy Mildew. The variety attracted significant attention, highlighting the growing importance of genetic resistance in protecting crops against increasing disease pressure.
“Growers from around the world come to see our innovations in action,” said Girish Khanna, Customer Experience Lead. “Seeing our second-generation clubroot resistance in the soil and learning about the protective genetics of our new onion shows how we help reduce yield-loss risk. The strong interest this week indicates the industry’s need for these innovations.”
Seed treatment and water efficiency
Syngenta Seedcare presented its latest developments in seed treatment solutions, including emerging biocontrols and the Epivio Energy biostimulant seed treatment for onions and spinach.
Field demonstrations also featured Talete, Syngenta’s biostimulant designed to optimise water-use efficiency. The demonstrations illustrated how the solution can help growers maintain crop productivity and resilience during periods of water scarcity.
RELATED NEWS: Syngenta drives flavour and quality in tomatoes from the roots up
“Real-world examples and physical demonstrations provide growers with a clear understanding of how these solutions integrate into existing production programmes,” said Ruud Roeven, Seedcare Commercial and Portfolio Lead. “By highlighting improvements in early root development and abiotic stress tolerance, we demonstrate how these solutions help growers ‘Shield their Yield’.”
A focus on the next generation
The event also hosted the third edition of the ‘Grow and Make Impact’ programme, which welcomed 250 students, job seekers and young professionals.
Participants were given an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how technology, science and nature come together to shape the future of food production.
“When you bring 250 ambitious people into this environment, you see exactly where agriculture is heading,” said Barry Koopman, Talent Partner. “The questions they asked and the curiosity they showed about our high-tech landscape show that the future of our industry is in very capable hands.”
