Enza Zaden has introduced a new tomato variety in the large cluster segment called Fortitude. The name reflects strength, determination, and reliability, qualities that fit this innovative variety well. Fortitude offers growers a mix of high yield, strong fruit quality, and a dependable resistance package.
From concept to market, the development moved fast. Fortitude was developed by Julian Wolf, breeder at Enza Zaden. "Two years ago, I first saw Fortitude in the greenhouse. After that, we conducted trials with growers, and within two years, the variety was ready for the market. That's exceptionally fast," says Julian. The project reached the finish line in record time thanks to a data-driven approach and close cooperation between R&D and Marketing, and Sales. "The biggest challenge was the speed at which we had to work. There was a lot of enthusiasm within Enza Zaden, so we needed to make big steps in a short time. Thanks to constructive teamwork, we succeeded. Everyone was on board and positive, which gave us tremendous energy," Julian adds.
© Enza Zaden
Fortitude (E15A.43687) stands out for its high potential yield in the large and medium cluster segment, sufficient cluster elongation for easy pruning to five or six fruits, firm, deep red fruits with excellent shelf life, a strong resistance package that fits a future with fewer crop protection products, and a vegetatively strong plant that performs well under lighting. Julian explains: "Fortitude produces more flowers per cluster than comparable varieties. This allows pruning to either five or six fruits. The variety is particularly suitable for pruning to six in spring for higher yields, which is attractive for growers. The results exceeded my expectations. I saw early on that this variety had potential, but I never imagined it would score so well on so many traits."
© Enza ZadenJulian Wolf
Support for growers is a key part of the introduction. Enza Zaden works closely with growers to make sure they get the most out of the variety. "We provide growers with data and knowledge to optimize the cultivation program together. This way, we get the most out of Fortitude," says Bas Olsthoorn, Sales Manager Tomato for the BeNeLux and Scandinavia region.
For Julian, seeing Fortitude reach the market is another milestone. "It's always special to walk into a greenhouse and see your 'baby' in large numbers. As a breeder, you often work with just six plants, and then suddenly you see a full greenhouse. That's truly a wow moment."
For more information:
Enza Zaden
[email protected]
www.enzazaden.com
