BASF | Nunhems Launches Percyst Carrot Variety with Nematode Resistance for the U.S. Market
20 December 2025, US: The vegetable seeds business of BASF, operating under the Nunhems® brand, has launched the Percyst® carrot brand. The variety is the result of more than 20 years of research and development and is the first carrot variety with intermediate resistance to Southern root-knot nematode and other root-knot nematode species.
Root-knot nematodes are a major constraint in carrot cultivation, affecting yield and root quality. In the United States, nematode-related crop losses are estimated at around USD 10 billion annually. Research published in 2023 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service highlighted continued economic and production challenges caused by nematodes, particularly in California.
Percyst carrots are bred to reduce dependence on chemical fumigation, which has been the primary method for nematode management. This trait is particularly relevant in regions such as California, where regulations governing chemical use have become more restrictive.
Nunhems has developed seed varieties across multiple vegetable crops, including tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and onions, focusing on yield stability, disease resistance, and crop uniformity. The introduction of Percyst carrots extends this portfolio with a variety designed to address nematode pressure in carrot production systems.
“Our work on Percyst carrots reflects a long-term focus on addressing persistent challenges faced by growers,” said Kaitlyn O’Neal, Regional Crop Lead, Americas: Carrot and Onion, BASF | Nunhems. “The variety combines nematode resistance with performance traits required for commercial production.”
Percyst carrots are suitable for both fresh market cello packs and processing into baby carrots, allowing use across multiple market segments.
The Percyst carrot brand will be available in the current planting season through authorized BASF | Nunhems distributors.
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