Breeding Manager Pieter Egelmeers explains: “Berries are traditionally propagated vegetatively rather than from seeds. We are focusing on both propagation methods in our breeding programme. Building on our knowledge of research, breeding and seed production, we hope to bring new and innovative tomato , cocumber and raspberry varieties to the market that will add value for growers and other chain partners.”
Official opening
The opening ceremony was attended by Bergman Seeds colleagues and construction partners. All guests had the opportunity to take a tour of the greenhouse.
“Our new breeding greenhouse represents a significant step forward in our mission to innovate in the area of fruit and vegetable breeding,” says Michiel Deriek , Crop Manager Berries at Bergman Seeds . “The new facility allows our team to conduct year-round research in optimal conditions, accelerating the development of our new breeding programme for berries.”
New berries breeding programme
Bergman Seeds has been active in vegetable breeding since its foundation in 1924. Last year, the company officially launched a berries breeding programme aimed at broadening its product portfolio with strawberries, blackberries and raspberries.
Breeding Manager Pieter Egelmeers explains: “Berries are traditionally propagated vegetatively rather than from seeds. We are focusing on both propagation methods in our breeding programme. Building on our knowledge of research, breeding and seed production, we hope to bring new and innovative strawberry, blackberry and raspberry varieties to the market that will add value for growers and other chain partners.”
Gift at breeding station opening
During the opening of our breeding station, our construction partner Van der Hoeven made a generous gesture. Menno van den Brink, CTO of Van der Hoeven, remarked: “We, along with our fellow suppliers, take pride in supporting Bergman Seeds innovative efforts, particularly in advancing berry breeding. Corporate social responsibility holds significant importance to us, and we’re pleased to contribute towards initiatives such as the Sibusiso foundation in Tanzania. As suppliers, we are delighted to present a collective gesture to benefit this foundation during the opening of Bergman Seeds new breeding station.”
