The New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) has posed an increasing challenge for zucchini growers across the Mediterranean. In response to this threat, Syngenta has developed a strong portfolio of varieties under the ND Protected umbrella.
The impact of these varieties in Europe’s main zucchini production area is remarkable. In 2024, Syngenta secured more than 25% of the market share for greenhouse-grown zucchini in Almería, and this figure is expected to surpass 50% in 2025, effectively doubling the current cultivated area.
And they are not stopping there. “We are working on earlier varieties for late summer and early autumn, with extended resistance to powdery mildew and potyvirus,” says Giuseppe Circella, Squash Product Specialist for Iberia and for Southwest Europe at Syngenta. “Our goal is to provide farmers with high-quality, stable, and productive solutions, ensuring their crops remain profitable and resilient against this virus.”
Addressing Market needs
Syngenta’s ND Delhi-resistant zucchini portfolio includes five varieties: Delfos ND (the pioneer of the range), Fausto ND, Eolo ND, Zeus ND, and Heracles ND. All of them feature intermediate resistance to ToLCNDV and powdery mildew, along with key characteristics such as a well-balanced plant structure with medium internodes and ease of harvesting.
Delfos ND: Designed for the autumn-winter and spring greenhouse segment. It offers intermediate resistance to ToLCNDV and powdery mildew, standing out for its high commercial yield, uniform quality, and excellent post-harvest performance. Its fruits are cylindrical, medium green, shiny, and maintain optimal length throughout the cycle.
Fausto ND: Its fruits exhibit a dark green, glossy color with good post-harvest durability. This variety is characterized by easy handling, reducing labor costs thanks to its plant architecture. This structure also promotes strong plant health. Another key advantage is its high yield during autumn and both early and late winter, as well as in late spring.
Eolo ND: Recognized for its great flexibility, delivering high yields in mid-to-late autumn and throughout the winter. Its fruits maintain high quality and excellent post-harvest performance. Additionally, it offers extra resistance to Watermelon Mosaic Virus (WMV).
Zeus ND: Developed for long cycles, it provides the widest planting window (from October to January). It is positioned in the winter segment, crucial for Almería, as well as in spring. It resembles the Logos variety in terms of compact plant structure. Its production remains high during winter and spring, ensuring a smooth seasonal transition with premium-quality fruits.
Heracles ND: Designed for long cycles, it has an erect plant structure and excellent plant health. This variety is well-balanced, with concentrated production mainly in winter.
Beyond Zucchini
In addition to zucchini, Syngenta has developed ND Protected varieties resistant to New Delhi virus in other strategic crops, such as cucumber (Siriana and Nilsa) and the first Piel de Sapo melon with resistance to New Delhi (Bobal).
Brand ND includes the part of Syngenta assortment with resistance vs. ToLCNDV.
