Rijk Zwaan

Vegetable

Rijk Zwaan is a globally recognized player in vegetable breeding and seed production, operating across more than 100 countries, with over 30 leafy and fruit crops in its portfolio. Sustainability is integral to their mission not only through breeding disease-resistant and longer-lasting varieties, but also via initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including reducing reliance on crop protection agents

To reduce labor and boost accuracy, the team installed Trap-Eye™ at their breeding location in Fijnaart, an automated system where each sticky trap is fitted with a camera that captures multiple images per week.​​

“The system automatically recognizes which and how many insects have been caught.That saves us about six hours a week and provides more consistent insight than manual counting.”

Photo: Trap-Eye™ in the breeding site. Trap-Eye™ a collaboration between Biobest and PATS. 

By digitizing the scouting process, Lans reduces dependence on manual labor and gains standardized, reliable data for pest management.​

Early detection supports biological control

To gain even better visibility of flying insects, especially those active outside of working hours. Rijk Zwaan also implemented the PATS-C solution. This camera-based system detects and tracks moth activity around sunset and sunrise, when pest movement is highest but often missed by manual inspections.

“This allows us to intervene earlier and choose natural enemies more often,” Harry explains. “Also contributes directly to the reduction of chemical agents.”

Growing confidence leads to expansion

After a successful trial at the Fijnaart location, Rijk Zwaan is now expanding the use of Trap-Eye™ into a new greenhouse currently under construction.

The company’s vision is clear: use data-driven technology to support biological control strategies and contribute to a more sustainable future for horticulture.

Harry Suijkerbuijk

Agronomist