The agricultural sector never stands still, driven by the need for sustainable development and ensuring food security. Within this dynamic, seed technology plays a key role. This is true for many crops, and not the least for the cultivation of red beet. On this topic, we give the floor to three biological seed treatment specialists at Bejo. Liesbeth van der Heijden, Senior researcher, Gertjan van Westen, Researcher and Kelly van Kooperen, Researcher, all from Seed Pathology Research, explain the latest developments and future direction of seed technology in red beet.
The need for innovation in the cultivation of red beet is becoming increasingly evident. Growers face challenges such as changing regulations, climate change and the ongoing threat of diseases. Bejo is at the forefront in developing advanced seed treatment techniques. Not only to improve plant health, but also to contribute to a more sustainable crop.
Innovation in seed technology
Van der Heijden and Van Westen share their knowledge and commitment to innovation. They explain how Bejo focuses on developing techniques that enhance the germination and resilience of red beet seeds. A key focus is the 'steam vacuum treatment', a unique method developed by Bejo to eliminate harmful pathogens on the seed without using chemicals. "This treatment is a gamechanger in seed technology and is the result of our commitment to sustainability and innovation," Van der Heijden stresses.
Van Kooperen adds: "The beet seeds are disinfected by alterations of vacuum and steam. The alterations with vacuum help with even distribution of hot steam in the seed batch. The development of treatment equipment and the design of targeted crop pathogen protocols is time consuming and continuous improvement is an important part of the research. The load of infection dictates the intensity required for treatment. Tailor-made prescription could be desirable."
Research is also being conducted on natural seed treatments, which are environmentally friendly and add essential nutrients to the seed. These seed treatments are designed to optimise the interaction between the seed and its microenvironment, giving the plants a better start.
The future of red beet seed
Looking to the future, experts underline the importance of resilience in red beet cultivation. With the restriction chemicals, the search for alternatives is more intense than ever. Bejo is involved in several research projects for development of alternatives, in terms of (seed) treatments and 'bio fungicides'. red beet has been an interesting model for our research into alternative treatments because we have already supplied beet seed without chemicals for two seasons in the European Union. This is due to the fact that approval of Maxim for red beet only came in 2022.
"The direction is clear: we are moving towards a future where chemical protection is replaced by natural resilience", explains Van Westen. "The ban on chemical plant protection products and the need to grow sustainably requires integrated crop protection. We are capable to deliver clean and healthy seed and innovations to impart resilience to the seed in the form of a rich microbiome or bio fungicides. Growers have a role in preventing diseases in the field by taking good care of their soil health through crop rotation and accurate monitoring. After all, healthy seed and soil are the start of a good crop."
In the research, there is an increasing focus on the seed microbiome - the community of micro-organisms that live naturally on and in seeds. Bejo is investigating how this microbiome can be optimised to improve plant health and disease resistance.
Bejo's work in seed technology and red beet marks an important transition in agriculture: away from chemical dependency towards more sustainable, organic methods. For growers and chain partners, this innovative approach offers prospects not only for healthier crops, but also for a future in which agriculture and ecological responsibility go hand in hand. Bejo remains committed to developing technologies that address today's challenges, looking towards a more sustainable future.
Meet the experts
Dr Liesbeth van der Heijden
Position: Senior Researcher (lead) - Seed Pathology Research
Background: Liesbeth has been with Bejo for almost a quarter of a century, where she started as a researcher and has grown into a leading specialist in the field of seed technology. With a rich background in biology and a PhD in mycorrhiza ecology (cohabitation of fungi and plants via roots) from Wageningen University & Research, Liesbeth has in-depth expertise in the biological treatment of seeds and the development of technologies that promote plant resilience and health.
Vision: "Innovation in seed technology is crucial for overcoming today's challenges in agriculture. Our goal is to provide growers with seeds that are not only resilient to diseases, but also contribute to a more sustainable future."
Gertjan van Westen
Position: Researcher - Seed Pathology Research
Background: Gertjan, with a background in biology from the University of Nijmegen, joined Bejo almost a decade ago. His work focuses on researching and testing biological crop protection products and exploring the role of the seed microbiome for improved plant health.
Vision: "We are in the midst of a major shift in agriculture, where biologics will play an increasingly important role as part of integrated crop protection and natural resilience. It is essential that we continue to innovate and work together to meet the challenges of the future."
Kelly van Kooperen
Position: Researcher - Seed Pathology Research
Background: Kelly has worked at Bejo for eight years and studied biology in Leiden. She is mainly engaged in research in the field of steam vacuum treatment. She also delves into disease transmission both in field and also under more controlled conditions. This research demonstrates the risk of seed pathogen infection for plant establishment, for example red beet.
Vision: “Physical disinfection is a proven method and remains highly relevant, especially as chemical agents fall away. Collaboration between physical disinfection (removing pathogens) and biological alternatives (adding resilience) is key.”
Beet Magazine
This article is from the first edition of our Beet Magazine. This issue delves into the multifaceted world of this vibrant root vegetable, covering everything from the latest challenges in seed production to the cultural significance of beets in different corners of the world. View the entire magazine here.
Beet Magazine
