The quality of the primary water supply is very important when operating within a closed hydroponic system. Rain water is pure and so it is naturally your best primary water source. Make sure you know the quality of your primary water supply by having it analyzed by a reputable laboratory, and invest in sufficient rain water storage capacity.
“We know from the work we have undertaken with the Wageningen University & Research that 100% recycling of drain water is possible today”, says Andrew. Of greatest concern to many growers when recycling drain water is the risk of spreading diseases. So make sure to always disinfect your drain water before using it as irrigation water, by e.g. advanced oxidation.
Why would you discharge valuable nutrients when they can be used again? By accurately managing nutrient levels, growth disorders can be avoided, and crop growth and yield can be optimized. Do not economize on a frequent analysis of slab and drain water (our advice: once a week) and take a close look at the prices of nutrients.
Investing in the future
The global call for reducing the environmental impacts associated with crop production will only increase in the coming years. Andrew adds: “In ten years’ time, I believe we may see a revolution in the way the total irrigation system is designed and operated inside the greenhouse. What is certain is that legislation will be in place across the globe that will prohibit drain water emission to the environment. Thankfully due to collaboration in the chain we have the knowledge and the technology available to start doing this today.”
For more information and tips on water management in the greenhouse, download the Best Practice Guidelines for Greenhouse Water Management.
This year, the focus of the United Nations observance is how to accelerate the change needed to solve the water and sanitation crisis. The global campaign is called “Be the change”. The aim is to encourage society to take action and change the way we use, consume and manage water. As Grodan, being an active member in this society, our aim is to provide the best solutions and provide high-end services that can support growers to “Grow more, with less” and change towards a sustainable way of growing while respecting natural resources.
Solving agricultural recycling challenges: Learn how post-harvest Grodan stone wool substrate is turned into clean growing media for better agricultural waste management.
Being part of the greenhouse sector, we are well aware of the fact that the current season came with multiple challenges and uncertainties in your greenhouse. Gas, energy, the significantly increased inflation, and the changing climate asks for even more flexibility and creativity to adapt to this changing environment.
We know many of you are facing a number of challenges in your greenhouse. With harvest season right around the corner, you could likely use some extra hands! Unfortunately, with the current staff shortages, extra labor is not easy to find. Additionally, gas prices are higher than ever which makes it even more important to use your energy as efficiently as possible. At the same time, consumers are increasingly demanding high quality crops with sustainability playing an increasingly important role.
We are a global leader in the supply of innovative stone wool substrate solutions for the professional horticultural based on Precision Growing principles.
