Corn Stunt Diseases Pose Growing Threat to Brazil’s Maize Production
Corn leafhopper-driven stunt diseases have caused major maize losses in Brazil, with a new study estimating average yield reductions of 22.7% between 2020 and 2024, worth US$6.5 billion annually. Published in Crop Protection, the research highlights rising costs, increased pest pressure, and growing threats to production, food security, and Brazil’s global competitiveness in maize exports.
Global Consortium Calls for Mapping Gene Expression Across All Wheat Cells
The Wheat Spatial Omics Consortium, spanning 80 researchers in nine countries, urges a global effort to map gene expression across every wheat cell type and developmental stage. Published in Nature Genetics, the framework shows how spatial omics and AI can boost wheat breeding, improve stress tolerance, raise yields, and strengthen global food security amid climate change and rising demand.
Wageningen to Launch Field Trials with NGT Potatoes
Wageningen University & Research and the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture will begin new genetically modified potato field trials in 2026, testing disease- and pest-resistant varieties. The trials aim to reduce pesticide use, improve protection against late blight, and assess practical performance. Using genome editing and New Genomic Techniques, researchers hope to speed development of sustainable, resilient potato crops in Europe.
Scientists Develop Leaf-Friendly Electrode for Smart Agriculture
Researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo have developed an ultra-thin, transparent, water-resistant nanofilm electrode that monitors plant stress without disrupting leaf function. The sensor works even on hairy leaves, preserves photosynthesis, and stays attached under rainfall. Published in Advanced Science, the breakthrough could enable early stress detection, smarter crop monitoring, and improved yields in tomatoes, soybeans, eggplants, and other crops.
An Investment In Every Canadian | On the Brink Season 1: Episode 5
Gerald Girard, Director of Barley Procurement at Malteurop, explains how investment in Canadian plant breeding sustains the supply chain — delivering stable barley supply and consistent quality all the way to the consumer.
Gene-Edited Wheat Cuts Harmful Acrylamide Without Yield Loss
Scientists at Rothamsted Research have developed CRISPR-edited wheat with up to 93% lower asparagine, cutting acrylamide formation in bread and biscuits without reducing yield. Field trials show gene editing outperforms conventional breeding in precision and safety. The breakthrough could help food producers meet tightening EU acrylamide regulations while advancing safer crops, sustainable agriculture, and food innovation globally.
Brasil enfrenta creciente riesgo por achaparramiento del maíz
Las enfermedades del achaparramiento del maíz, transmitidas por la chicharrita, han provocado grandes pérdidas en Brasil. Un estudio estima una reducción media del 22,7% del rendimiento entre 2020 y 2024, equivalente a US$6.500 millones anuales. Publicado en Crop Protection, el análisis destaca mayores costos, presión de plagas y riesgos para la producción, la seguridad alimentaria y la competitividad exportadora.
Euroseeds Joins Call to Preserve Agriculture and Bioeconomy in EU Research Programme
Euroseeds and more than 20 stakeholders have welcomed MEP Christian Ehler’s draft ITRE report on Horizon Europe 2028–2034 but urge lawmakers to keep agriculture and the bioeconomy explicitly named in the programme. The coalition warns that proposed wording changes could weaken investment, food security, sustainability, rural development, and innovation, while delaying adoption of Europe’s research framework.
Gene Discovery Opens Path to Deeper, More Efficient Crop Roots
Researchers identified the plant signaling gene CEPR1 as a promising target for breeding cereal crops with steeper, narrower root systems that may better access water and nutrients. The study found this pathway is conserved across major grains, though barley showed yield penalties. The findings could support future crop improvement strategies aimed at drought resilience, nutrient efficiency, and reduced fertilizer dependence.
Watermelon Breeding Under Pressure: What Growers and Breeders Are Up Against
Watermelon breeding faces growing pressure from climate change, disease threats, limited crop protection, and complex polygenic traits. Narrow genetic diversity and demanding consumer standards add further challenges. Breeders are adopting genomics, digital tools, and diverse germplasm to improve resilience, yield, and quality. Success depends on balancing innovation with field performance, ensuring reliable crops that meet grower needs and consumer expectations.
Seed Certification is Adjusting to a System it No Longer Fully Controls
Brad Stancil, who won the 2025 Association of Seed Certifying Agencies Excellence in Innovation award, connects regulatory programs with seed certification.
Soil Microbe Breakthrough Boosts Phosphorus Efficiency in Crops
A new study finds that combining biochar with phosphate-solubilizing Bacillus bacteria improves phosphorus availability, boosts soil microbial activity, and increases greenhouse cherry tomato yields by more than 23%. The treatment enhanced root growth, nutrient uptake, and fruit-bearing branches while reducing reliance on fertilizer inputs, offering a scalable and sustainable solution for greenhouse production and phosphorus management.
NAPB 2026 in Texas Showcases Innovation as Borlaug Scholars Program Invites New Sponsors
Registration is open and new sponsors are invited to support future plant breeders as part of the Borlaug Scholarship program
Canadian Seed Growers’ Association Faces New Chapter as Doug Miller Exits
He leaves behind a more modern, more agile organization at a pivotal moment for Canada’s seed sector
European Commission Launches Consultation on Plant Variety Rights System
The European Commission has opened a consultation on Community Plant Variety Rights legislation and the performance of the CPVO. Stakeholders across the plant breeding, seed, farming and research sectors are invited to share feedback on the system’s effectiveness, efficiency and relevance. Contributions can be submitted online in any official EU language as part of the EU’s evaluation process.
CIMMYT Scientist Receives Africa Region Food Security Leadership Award for MLN Work
In Nairobi, African scientists, regulators and seed leaders recognized Suresh L.M. with the Africa Region Food Security Leadership Award for combating maize lethal necrosis. His work with CIMMYT advanced resistant hybrids, seed decontamination, diagnostics and regional collaboration. Over a decade, strengthened plant health systems, safeguarded seed movement and improved food security across Sub-Saharan Africa, supporting farmers and resilient agricultural systems.
Canada’s Seed Sector This Week: Pressure is Building, but so is Momentum
As funding concerns grow and research capacity tightens, tools like the VUA and a reset in Seeds Canada leadership signal a sector starting to respond in real time
Seeds Canada Prepares for 2026 AGM After Successful Seed School
A full-capacity Seed School in Winnipeg set the stage for July’s Annual Meeting in Saskatoon
Seed Innovation in Canada: The Funding Problem No One Can Ignore
Seeds Canada CEO Dan Wright explains why current models are falling short — and how new approaches like the Variety Use Agreement could change the game
Breeders Trust Flags Illegal Seed Potato Sales in Online Marketplaces
Breeders Trust is monitoring online sales of seed potatoes, highlighting growing cases of illegal trade via Facebook groups and webshops. Uncertified seed and misuse of ware potatoes raise plant breeders’ rights concerns and phytosanitary risks. The organisation urges stronger awareness, enforcement, and compliance to protect innovation and ensure fair practices across the potato sector.
New Jalapeño, Murupi and Ornamental Peppers Move to On-Farm Testing in Brazil
New jalapeño, murupi, fresh-market, and ornamental pepper materials from Embrapa Vegetables are advancing to on-farm testing in Brazil. Developed to meet demands from growers, processors, and ornamental markets, the cultivars aim to improve agronomic, industrial, and functional traits. The program supports sustainable production, organic systems, mechanized harvesting, and greater competitiveness across Brazil’s expanding pepper value chain.
Ukraine’s Seed Sector During the Russian Invasion of Ukraine: Production, Exports and EU Integration
Ukraine’s seed sector faces disruption from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, including energy shortages, mined farmland, logistics barriers, and labour gaps. Despite producers maintain output, invest in infrastructure, adapt operations. Farmers sustain planting levels, while exports to the EU recover. Regulatory alignment and industry partnerships are strengthening competitiveness, positioning Ukraine as a resilient and growing player in global seed markets.
Your Data Doesn’t End at the Lab, It Shows Up in the Field
Seed testing decisions often rely on germination percentage alone, but field performance depends on more. This rye case showed how abnormal seedlings, Fusarium pressure, and seed stress can signal hidden risk despite acceptable germination results. Iowa State University Seed Science Center helps growers interpret seed quality data more fully, improving management decisions, stand establishment, and real-world crop performance.
The Final Four? Bioenergy Crops Beyond Corn Competing for the Future of Energy
Four bioenergy crops go head-to-head in a March Madness-style showdown, revealing how poplar, sorghum, switchgrass and mixed prairie are competing beyond corn to shape the future of sustainable energy.
The Overlooked Role of Seed Processors in Crop Success
While often behind the scenes, seed processors are essential to delivering the consistency and quality growers rely on every season. I didn’t take a straight path into agriculture, but it’s […]
The End of the Status Quo | On the Brink Season 1: Episode 4
Federal cuts are closing key research facilities across Canada. Doug Miller of the Canadian Seed Growers Association joins On the Brink Episode 4 to ask what comes next for Canadian plant breeding — and who builds the model that replaces what’s being lost.
Nuevos pimientos jalapeños, murupi y ornamentales pasan a la fase de pruebas en fincas en Brasil
Nuevos materiales de jalapeño, murupi, consumo fresco y pimientos ornamentales de Embrapa Hortalizas avanzan a pruebas en campo en Brasil. Desarrollados para atender a productores, procesadores y mercados ornamentales, buscan mejorar rasgos agronómicos, industriales y funcionales. El programa impulsa producción sostenible, sistemas orgánicos, cosecha mecanizada y mayor competitividad en la creciente cadena de valor del chile en Brasil.
How “Either/Or” Thinking Limits Your Company’s Potential
Leaders often face either-or decisions, from inventory and growth to efficiency and innovation. High-performing companies reject this mindset, managing paradoxes instead. By balancing experience with innovation and growth with focus, organizations unlock stronger strategies. Gro Alliance’s approach shows that designing for both priorities, rather than choosing between them, creates sustainable competitive advantage and long-term success in complex modern markets today.
Let’s Talk: Biologicals Are Gaining Ground
Seed World Europe’s Petar Madjarac, Head of Business Development, EMEA, and Editorial Director Marcel Bruins discuss why the seed sector is paying closer attention now, the industry’s growth trajectory, and what must happen next. Their key takeaway: the biggest unlock is a clear, predictable regulatory pathway. Once that is in place, rapid change could follow, raising the question of where the real tipping point will be.
Global Seed Sector Progress in Focus in ISF Annual Report 2025
The International Seed Federation’s Annual Report 2025 highlights progress across the global seed sector, including milestones in quality seed, innovation, sustainable value chains, policy engagement and member services. The report also marks the close of ISF’s 2021–2025 strategy and outlines priorities for the 2026–2030 cycle, setting the direction for continued global impact.
Why Most Ag Companies Get Executive Leadership Wrong — And How to Fix It
Seed World and Kincannon & Reed are hosting a free executive leadership webinar on April 9. Register to save your seat.
Farm Bill Delays Keep Seed in Holding Pattern
In case you’re wondering, the Farm Bill is still not finished! And for most of agriculture, that’s frustrating. For the seed industry, it’s more of the same hedging. It sure […]
CSGA AGM 2026 Whitehorse: Dates, Travel, Keynote and What to Expect
Everything you need to know about the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association AGM, including keynote speaker Bruce Kirkby, travel discounts, Yukon experiences and conference highlights
Seeds That Fix Themselves — A New Lever for Seed Longevity
New research from the University of Kentucky shows how a protein repair system helps seeds recover from storage damage and maintain germination, offering breeders a new approach to improving seed longevity and performance.
Rothamsted Barley Becomes First Crop Cleared Under UK Precision-Breeding Rules
Rothamsted Research has developed the UK’s first gene-edited barley to receive Precision Bred Organism marketing notice confirmation under new precision-breeding rules. Created using CRISPR to boost lipid content, the high-energy forage crop could improve livestock feed efficiency and help cut methane emissions. The barley is now advancing through wider evaluation under the PROBITY initiative.
Study warns Colombia could lose one-fifth of cocoa land by 2050
A new study warns Colombia could lose nearly 20% of its cocoa-suitable land by 2050 as climate change alters temperatures and rainfall. The biggest risks are in lowland and northeastern regions, while some higher-altitude areas may become more suitable. Researchers say wild cocoa genetics, agroforestry, irrigation, and climate-smart planning will be crucial to protecting future cocoa production.