Innovative solutions to monitor and improve water quality

Water is the foundation for the growth of every plant. It is an essential building block for photosynthesis as well as for transpiration to enable transport through plants and allow them to regulate their temperature. Sufficient and good-quality water with the right concentration of nutrients is therefore a critical factor in the success of all forms of cultivation.

In cooperation with partners from the industry, Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture develops innovative systems and technologies to monitor and improve water quality for greenhouse and open field production. Additionally, they answer questions related to water supply for greenhouse horticulture at all levels: plant, crop, cultivation, company and region.

The innovations developed in cooperation with companies result in the more efficient use of water and nutrients and better plant growth, while also preventing emissions into the surface water. The result is crop production in companies with a small water and environmental footprint.

Using intelligent sensors and computer models, Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture  combines its knowledge of the plant physiology and cultivation aspects of plants with know-how on the physical aspects of the plant environment.

This enables a regulated application of water and nutrients, ensuring that the roots take up sufficient water and nutrition for healthy growth and crop development.

In addition to innovative components of cultivation systems, such as climate control, irrigation control and substrates, Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture partners with industry to develop complete systems aimed at the sustainable use of water, nutrients and other resources as well as minimal emissions. All are optimally adapted to the specific local situation.