Lentiz MBO Westland conducts research into circular greenhouse

Students from Lentiz assessed and cared for the crops under the supervision of Horti-tech, and collected data during the entire cultivation period. Students from Inholland University of Applied Sciences have collaborated with Koppert to devise and successfully implement a crop protection plan. Fourth year students have conducted research into the nutritional value of tomatoes grown in a circular horticulture system. Cultivation was completed at the end of June 2022, resulting in a robust crop, efficient production and healthy, sustainable tomatoes. 

Background
Organic fertilisers are an essential input for modern greenhouse horticulture. In the Netherlands, we are currently dealing with an excess nitrogen problem from fertiliser use, this despite the high demand for nitrogen in greenhouse horticulture. In modern greenhouse horticulture, tailor-made nutritional solutions are offered for plants on substrate. Manure from the farm can't be added directly to this process. Substrate supplier Van der Knaap Group has developed a bioreactor able to convert animal manure and organic waste streams into fertilisers for use in substrate cultivation. The nutrients were fixed, both in minerals and in organic compounds. The plant and active soil life found in substrate ensure that the plant can successfully extract the nutrients it requires.

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Image by href Freepik

Source: van der knaap