Maximize the returns from your crop and LED grow light system

There is great interest in 'LED', which is due to high energy prices, the imperative energy transition and the subsidies available for full LED systems. But what is the ideal grow light system in a specific situation? Is full LED definitely the best choice, or is a hybrid grow light installation a better option? Exactly how much can be saved and what impact does this have on the crop? "These are the questions of growers who are considering LED", says Paul van der Valk, Area Sales Manager Western Europe at Hortilux.

"Logically, businesses want as much investment certainty as possible and want to understand what is possible within their specific situation - in terms of their business and greenhouses. For example, a low greenhouse would require a different LED configuration to a high greenhouse. The amount of sunlight and the climate at a specific location also play a role. And, of course, the objective that a grower has in mind when growing under LED: to improve service to a specific market segment, to exploit new market opportunities, to grow a more compact crop, etc. In short: when investing in LED, many aspects have to be considered."

In line with goals

Hortilux's consultants help businesses to piece together this jigsaw. By first of all identifying a company's cultivation goals, situation and the situation in terms of greenhouses. "By calculating various scenarios and using special calculation models, we can then advise growers about the correct system and configuration and the right light recipe", says Van der Valk.

To work out the ideal LED spectrum, Hortilux's specialists also always carry out a test with the relevant spectrum. The results of this test are integrated into a report and evaluated extensively. "The most important thing is that the test achieves the desired result and is in line with the grower's goals and with the various types of crop and phases of plant growth. If the result is achieved, we will work together to consider the financial feasibility of the light recipe. To do so, we consider the yield in relation to the costs - both in terms of energy consumption and the investment in the light source."

New method of growing

When LED grow light is chosen, this will entail a whole new method of growing. Many things will have to be reconsidered: fertigation, climate, screening, biology, etc. It is particularly important to create an optimal plant balance. This is also the focus of the Plant Empowerment collaboration, of which Hortilux is an implementation partner. "Along with the other implementation partners at Plant Empowerment, we can offer an integrated total solution for a successful growing strategy under LED . This helps growers to quickly master the intricacies of growing under LED, thereby limiting start-up losses. The intensive support of our consultants and the organisation of special webinars and masterclasses are also important in this regard. Through this approach, we help growers to grow successfully with LED and maximise their returns. In short: we work together to achieve results."

Would you like to know more about growing with LED grow light?

For more information, please contact Hortilux by sending an email to 
Info@hortilux.com or call +31 (0) 174 286 628.

Source: HortiBiz