Looije boosts cherry tomato yield by 40% with Novagric

The discussion highlighted outstanding results achieved in a technological greenhouse project carried out by Novagric in Águilas last year. The production company, OP Looije, aimed to produce 27 kilograms of cherry tomatoes, representing a 10% increase in production compared to the previous phase's greenhouses, but they ultimately managed to increase production by 40%.

The conversation was moderated by Jose Fco. Martínez Tornero, the manager of Novagric, and featured the participation of Jacqueline de Looije and Juan Pardo, responsible for R&D at Novagric.

Jacqueline Looije (Looije Aguilas) y Juan Pardo (Novagric) during the contrustion process

This greenhouse combines innovative design with advanced technology to maximize efficiency and crop quality. It was the largest greenhouse built in Spain in a single module, covering 7.3 hectares, and the 40% increase resulted in harvesting 29.2 kilograms of cherry tomatoes per square meter.

Greenhouse height, airtightness, and lighting are key factors that contributed to this success. The greenhouse's design is tailored to the specific needs of the crop and the climatic conditions, influencing productivity and quality. Both the design and proper management, including factors like lighting, winter screens, uniform irrigation, and airtight sealing, were essential for achieving these outstanding results.

Regarding the challenges they had to overcome, the need to maintain greenhouse airtightness to prevent pests like the rugose virus and control high temperatures, especially during the summer in the Region of Murcia, was emphasized. This was made possible through a combination of success. Sustainability was also a significant topic, highlighting the reduction of chemicals and resource efficiency.

Looije's commitment is to continue increasing its production and quality, with the goal of reaching 31 kilograms of cherry tomatoes per square meter next year in the new greenhouses developed by Novagric.

The innovation lead at Novagric, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of moving towards greenhouse designs with renewable energy and photovoltaic solutions, which increase the profitability of high-tech greenhouses to produce more while using less space.

This exemplary project demonstrates how the combination of innovative design, advanced technology, and a focus on sustainability can drive success in greenhouse agriculture.

Roundtable discussion on the project 
(English subtitles available)

Project report (in English)

About Looije and Novagric

OP Looije is a Dutch company with 25 years of experience in Spain, dedicated to cultivating Cherry tomatoes year-round, focusing on quality and production consistency. They operate in the regions of Murcia, Granada, and Almería, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and efficiency.

Novagric (Novedades Agrícolas, S.A.) is a company with 45 years of experience in developing technology and comprehensive projects for competitive agriculture, both in greenhouses and open-field irrigation.

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