Heating

Door het gebruik van verwarmingssystemen in de vollegrondteelt kan bij bijvoorbeeld aspergetelers het groeiseizoen worden verlengd, zodat ze vroeg in het jaar kunnen beginnen met oogsten. Dit zorgt niet alleen voor een hogere opbrengst, maar ook voor een betere kwaliteit van de asperges. Verwarming speelt een cruciale rol bij het reguleren van de bodemtemperatuur, wat essentieel is voor een succesvolle oogst.

Water technology

Water is a crucial factor in horticulture, and an effective water system contributes significantly to successful cultivation. In field and tray cultivation, specific water systems are required to ensure optimal growing conditions for crops.

Field Cultivation

In field cultivation, crops are planted directly in the soil. Drip irrigation and sprinklers are the most commonly used methods in field cultivation.

  • Drip Irrigation: This system delivers water directly to the root zone of plants through a network of pipes and emitters. The major advantage of drip irrigation is water conservation; it minimizes evaporation and runoff, allowing more water to reach the plant roots.
  • Sprinklers: Suitable for larger fields, sprinklers can evenly distribute water over a wide area. They are ideal for crops that require uniform moisture across the entire field. Modern sprinklers can be adjusted to control water pressure and spray patterns, which helps in optimizing water use and reducing waste.

Tray Cultivation

Tray cultivation involves growing crops in trays or containers. This system is often used for seedlings, cuttings, and young plants. The water needs in tray cultivation differ significantly from field cultivation.

  • Irrigation Systems: In tray cultivation, systems such as drip irrigation or ebb-and-flow (flood-and-drain) are commonly used. These systems provide precise control over the amount of water delivered to each tray or container, ensuring efficient water use and minimizing waste.
    • Drip Irrigation in Trays: Delivers water directly to each tray or container, ensuring that each plant receives adequate moisture without overwatering.
    • Ebb-and-Flow Systems: Involve periodically flooding the trays with water and then allowing the excess to drain away. This method provides consistent moisture and helps with nutrient delivery.

In both field and tray cultivation, the choice and management of water systems are vital for ensuring healthy plant growth and maximizing yields.