Tests provide insight into the quality of plant material. Naktuinbouw laboratories test plant material for the presence of harmful viruses, fungi, bacteria, nematodes and other organisms. With our extensive knowledge and high-tech equipment, we offer the assurance of meticulously tested propagating material and disease resistance.
To ensure compliance with the latest international guidelines, we work closely with organisations such as the NVWA (Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority), EPPO (European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation), ISTA (International Seed Testing Association) and ISHI (International Seed Health Initiative).
Delays in phytopathological test results
This year, our clients experienced a deterioration in the turnaround time for phytopathological tests. Given the scale of the situation, we launched a Task Force at the end of June to identify and resolve the bottlenecks. It quickly became clear that several bottlenecks in our processes were the cause of the delayed turnaround times. We informed the companies involved about our current turnaround times through newsletters, letters, and, starting at the end of 2025, through specific information. We also consulted with the NVWA and the trade association Plantum.
What exactly was going on?
The main cause was insufficient production capacity in various locations within our laboratories. This was also due to a very large peak in the influx of primarily urgent orders. These were prioritized over regular tests. Several secondary causes also exacerbated the problem.
How we addressed it
We took immediate measures to minimize the impact as much as possible. We restructured the production management of our phytopathology laboratory. Temporary staff covered sick colleagues. We also adjusted our emergency procedure to restore a normal balance between regular and emergency submissions. This latter aspect quickly impacted turnaround times. Unfortunately, scaling up the capacity (number of full-time equivalents) for seed mycology proved challenging. This bottleneck will cause some delays in early 2026. Behind the scenes, we are working hard to bring these tests back to standard, including by hiring and training additional staff for this specialized work.
Testing & Analysis optimizes processes
We work year-round to improve our services. Read more about the processes we've improved, including those in Testing & Analysis, in the featured article "We're continuously improving our work".
ELISA tests replaced by PCR tests
To further support the sector, we continue to develop new tests. These tests aid in the accurate diagnosis of plants with symptoms and guarantee the absence of certain pathogens. In 2025, we replaced several ELISA tests on plant material with PCR tests.
Preparations for a new laboratory
To respond to developments within the sector, the profession, and our organization, investments are necessary. A new laboratory is one of these. In 2023, we mapped out our requirements for our laboratory facilities. Due to the size of the investment, we issued a European tender in 2024 for the design of the new construction and expansion of our laboratories. In the autumn of 2025, the preliminary design was converted into a concrete, feasible construction drawing, complete with all technical and aesthetic details. The final design includes everything from floor plans to facade elevations and detailed drawings. The final design was completed in early 2026.