Trials at our innovation centre
Our innovation centre ‘de Kas’ is located in Honselersdijk (NL). Here, we carry out ongoing (cultivation) trials in twelve greenhouses, an outdoor field and a state-of-the-art laboratory. We test our own products, develop new products and regularly carry out trials for our customers and other external parties. This enables us to gain knowledge of all kinds of crops and cultivation techniques and to support our customers in the transition to a sustainable horticultural sector. Once again this year, we have a full programme of trials and research.
Vegetable trials
The pressure on growers to cultivate vegetables without residues is increasing, whilst the number of available chemical products is decreasing. As a result, the importance of a resilient crop is growing. Previous trials and practical experience show that organic substrates, such as coco, stimulate soil life and thus contribute to the crop’s resilience. In our cucumber trial, we are investigating whether the addition of microorganisms strengthens the root system.
We are also investigating an organic cultivation concept for sweet peppers in accordance with North American standards, in which the plants are grown off the ground. The plants are grown in pots filled with 60 litres of growing medium, 50% of which consists of medium used in the previous growing year and 50% of which is Forteco® Profit.
In a trial with hydroponically grown lettuce, we are comparing the effect on the crop of the nutrient solution from our bioreactor with that of mineral fertiliser, and we are comparing different plug types.
Circular raw materials
Globally, demand for raw materials and new raw material streams for substrate production is increasing. That is why, at ‘de Kas’, we are conducting research into new, safe, renewable and circular raw materials for sectors such as vegetable and ornamental horticulture. When increasing the proportion of circular raw materials in substrates, safety and high-quality raw materials are paramount, ensuring they meet the high standards set by us and our customers. This is therefore an important piece of research focused on the future!
Resilient ornamental plant production
Van der Knaap produces a wide range of rooting plugs, including those for rooting Phalaenopsis. During the rooting of Phalaenopsis, there is a risk of loss due to plant pathogens, fungi or bacteria. The research compares various biostimulants, which are mixed into the substrate, to assess their effectiveness in increasing the success rate. A similar resilience study is being carried out using 12 cm pots for anthurium cultivation.
Further information
Would you like to receive more information about the possibilities at ‘de Kas’, or would you like to take a look at one of our trials? Please get in touch with us.