Future-proof Spinach
Is Rijk Zwaan’s response to a world in motion. From extreme weather to shifting markets, today’s growers face more complexity than ever. Our breeding approach focuses on adaptability, resilience and performance with spinach varieties that support consistent results across diverse conditions. Whether it’s processing, bunching or fresh market production, we offer a reliable seeds portfolio built for tomorrow. Trusted by growers, tested by nature
A versatile crop with growing global demand
Spinach is one of the world's most popular leafy vegetables. Originally from Central and Western Asia, it is widely grown in open-field and protected cultivation systems. The crop performs particularly well in cooler climates and is commonly produced during autumn, winter and spring. Demand for spinach continues to increase, especially in Asia, creating new opportunities for local markets and export. Rijk Zwaan holds a leading position in the global spinach market.
A vegetable valued for its nutritional benefits
Consumers appreciate spinach for its rich nutritional profile. It contains vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, including iron, vitamin C, folate, lutein and carotenoids. These nutrients contribute to a healthy and balanced diet and make spinach a popular ingredient in fresh meals, salads and processed products.
As consumer interest in healthy food continues to grow, spinach remains an important crop for promoting vegetable consumption and supporting healthier lifestyles.
Varieties for every market segment
Rijk Zwaan develops spinach varieties for a wide range of growing conditions, production systems and market needs. For the processing industry, the portfolio includes robust varieties with strong resistance to downy mildew and excellent bolting tolerance.
For the fresh market, growers can choose from a broad assortment of leaf types, colours and textures. The range includes smooth-leaf, savoy-leaf and red-veined varieties suitable for salads and fresh consumption. Varieties differ in growth rate, bolting tolerance and resistance package, enabling growers to select the best option for their production system.
Breeding for reliability and sustainability
Resistance breeding is a key focus within Rijk Zwaan's spinach programme. By developing varieties with strong resistance packages and reliable field performance, Rijk Zwaan helps growers produce a consistent crop while reducing production risks.
Because spinach is predominantly harvested mechanically, breeding efforts focus on traits such as uniform germination, crop uniformity, bolting tolerance and an upright growth habit. These characteristics support efficient harvesting, high-quality production and a reliable supply chain. Through continuous innovation, Rijk Zwaan contributes to future-proof spinach production for growers, processors and consumers alike.