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Oct 4, 2022 2:00:00 PM
Water is becoming an increasingly relevant issue for the horticultural sector. Therefore, it is important to be well prepared and know what is involved. With the following seven points of interest, we would like to help you on your way!
#1 Climate change leads to other choices
Dry periods and extreme showers are alternating more and more. And this trend will continue in the coming years. This strongly influences the choices growers make. On the one hand, it is important to collect rainwater smartly. On the other hand, it is important to have a sufficiently large water supply.
#2 More attention to water quality on plant growth
We learn more about plants as an industry, what they need and how they grow. This determines the cultivation strategy. Water quality is very decisive for plant growth. The pH, EC, and other values are becoming more attuned to plant needs. The oxygen content of the water also plays a vital role in this.
#3 Regulating humidity
As we know more about the plant, we can also better meet the plants' needs. Evaporation and regulating humidity are important topics. You can read more about this in our white paper on plant health.
A great example is that with an ErfGoedFloor, we can ensure that there is a small layer of water in the ErfGoedFloor continuously. During hot summer days, this creates a cooler environment and higher humidity. This creates a better growing environment around the plant, so the plant continues to grow.
#4 More attention to watering
Water regulations are becoming stricter. In several countries, growers are prohibited from discharging water. There are also increasing restrictions on using water from a well or surface water. This also provides opportunities. By reusing water, you can save fertilizer and water. This will save you money and make you less dependent on other water sources.
#5 Advancement of sensors
Due to the tight labor market, there are less and less people available with thorough knowledge of water management. At the same time, this is one of the most crucial topics for the coming years. Innovations can contribute to a solution. Think, for example, of sensors, which map matters and help to make adjustments at the right time.
#6 Water analyses as a guide
With the advent of sensors, water analyses increasingly determine growers' choices. Priva, for example, has a unique dashboard that provides insight into data from various sensors. But we are only at the beginning in this respect: the developments around data and data analyses follow each other in rapid succession.
#7 Autonomous cultivation
With the advance in sensors and data, autonomous cultivation is also increasingly coming into the picture. This means, for example, that the entire water process can also be controlled remotely. This is possible by utilizing programmable logic controller (PLC) technology, among other things. This is already used, for example, on the current ErfGoedComputer. This technology is constantly being developed and is important to keep up with!
Want to read more about water management? Download our white paper on this topic here.
