Innovation

At BASF’s vegetable seeds business, we are carrying on a century-old tradition in the vegetable seeds market. We have been creating fruit and vegetable varieties for over 100 years and we have over 1,200 varieties on the market today. For us, innovation isn’t just a talking point – it’s at the heart of what we do.

Our industry is facing a multitude of challenges: climate change, increasing regulations, land availability, increasing input costs, a shortage of resources including labor and water, rising consumer expectations, and a growing population. Our motivation is our commitment to bringing innovations to market that address these challenges, and new challenges that may be on the horizon.

Our inspiration is a flavorful one

Meeting consumer expectations and needs inspires us. Consumers want flavorful, nutritious, and sustainable food options. To meet this demand requires innovation and new ways of working. Today’s and future farming methods, for example, will require digitalization.

Farming today looks much different than when we started – and we know it’ll continue to evolve over the decades to come. That is why we take innovation to heart. By combining our expertise and excellent products with strategic partnerships, our innovation will accelerate. After all, our innovations will create healthy eating that is enjoyable and sustainable for families today and for future generations to come.

Fighting viruses by innovative breeding

Viruses, such as the Coronavirus, have a serious impact on our lives. But viruses not only threaten humans, they also threaten plants – including those we eat. Viruses can be transmitted from one plant to another and although such viruses do not harm people, they can wreak havoc on a crop, significantly reducing yields. The Tomato Brown Rugose Virus (ToBRFV) is one of the biggest threats for growing tomatoes.

Innovation is in our DNA

Innovation for us means ensuring healthy eating is enjoyable and sustainable for generations to come. You might say it’s in our DNA. To achieve this, we focus on key areas including:

Breeding Solutions

Our breeders and scientists create solutions that tackle our customers’ upcoming challenges and satisfy consumer demand.

Breeding example: High-wire cultivation

Customer Solutions

We don’t stop at genetics. We work with partners and the value chain to ensure consumers can get delicious, nutritious fruits and vegetables.

Digitalization

Improved data helps us make better decisions faster. We are dedicated to developing new ways of farming – indoor farming and autonomous growing, for example.

Read more about digital phenotyping

Collaboration

Horticulture isn’t about walking the path alone. Partnerships and collaboration help us to accelerate innovation for our customers, our industry and the entire value chain – all for the sustainability of generations to come