Our History

In 1915, in search of a country home, the merchant Herman Meddens discovered the Nunhem castle property in the southern Dutch province of Limburg. He purchased the facilities, moved there with his family and by 1916, had every intention to start a mixed fruit and vegetable operation. But fate had other plans. When it came to harvest, auction prices were tremendously disappointing. Meddens decided to leave the beans he had grown to ripen for their seeds. This moment marked the beginning of Nunhems Zaden, the predecessor of today’s Nunhems.

Company founder Herman Meddens.

Nunhems Zaden continued to grow over the years, developing increasing numbers of well-received seed varieties. Between 1952 and 1977, Nunhems registered no less than 191 varieties as a result of the company's own breeding and selection programs. Over the past 90 years, Nunhems has evolved from a local, family-owned business to a major player in the global vegetable seeds market. This evolution has witnessed constant growth – both organic as well as through acquisitions – and an ongoing geographical expansion. Today, Nunhems employs 1,500 people in more than 40 countries, and sells its seed varieties in more than 100.

While many examples of unique products and effective solutions have emerged from the Nunhems' portfolio in the course of its history, the company has always paid particular attention to people. Two-way interaction, mutual care and inspiration have contributed significantly to the company’s success. Motivated employees and trustful relationships with our customers and partners are our key investment into the future. In 2002, Nunhems became part of Bayer CropScience. A subsidiary of Bayer AG, Bayer CropScience is one of the world’s leading innovative crop science companies, offering products and solutions in crop protection, non-agricultural pest control, seeds and plant biotechnology.

The Nunhems castle, former home to the Meddens family, around 1916. The characteristic silhouette of the castle and the letters "NZ" (Nunhems Zaden) are still reflected today in our company logo.

The roots of Nunhems USA Inc. date back to 1845 when a small seed operation, the Plant Seed Company, opened for business in St. Louis, Missouri. Moving west and merging with other profitable and innovative companies such as Keystone Seed, Desert Seed, Castle Seed, and Sunseeds in 1997.