New energy calculation program enables foolproof pepper cultivation

A group of consultants is currently conducting research and investment in a practical calculation forecast for bell pepper growers. Vortus BV and Sweet Pepper Consultancy BV are designing a calculation model to support companies with strategic decisions to optimize bell pepper production and fruit quality. Cultivation decisions are made in relation to energy efficiency, screen(s) usage, humidity, CO2 levels and 24-hour temperatures in relation with light levels.

The calculation model provides knowledge and awareness of the assimilate demand and is a tool for the grower for a foolproof bell pepper cultivation. With the support of the model, data can be analyzed, which creates new insights. This information gives the possibilities to create a foolproof cultivation with lower energy use, but still with an excellent production, fruit and plant quality. A better harvesting forecast can be created, which results in an improved control of marketing the product.

Assimilate balance
There are big differences in the distribution of assimilates between varieties. With some of the varieties, a high percentage of the sugars will go to the fruits after fruit set (high sink), while with other varieties the sugars will be distributed more evenly throughout the plant. Varieties that have a big demand of assimilates towards their fruits, will use more energy and sugars during the first 4 weeks after fruit set.

During different times of the year, there is a different energy demand from the fruits, plant growth and crop maintenance. More insight in demand and supply of assimilates gives a better understanding when the plant is sensitive for quality problems like internal fruit rot. The correct cultivation strategy can prevent this problem from happening.

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Energy efficiency
Better insight of the distribution of assimilates towards fruit and plant growth at this moment and the upcoming periods, gives the possibility to make the right decisions: when is saving energy possible, without sacrificing production and/or quality? At which radiation level can the 24-hour temperature be increased to speed up outgrow time of the fruit? Or is it better to lower the 24-hour temperature to maintain sufficient root- and plant growth, which can give a more regular fruit set?

Photosynthesis
Balance between energy load and plant growth, creates good cooling of the plant and a big fruit set. This gives the possibility to allow more heat during the day. You’ll need less ventilation and this results in higher humidity, lower VPD, higher CO2 levels and therefore a higher photosynthesis level is possible.

Summary
Controlling a regular plant load is for growers an interesting process. Due to the diversity in varieties, there are big differences in energy demand of fruit stages. With data about energy demand, a more substantiated cultivation strategy can be implemented. With the cultivation of bell peppers, fast decisions and transition moments are needed to create the optimum production and quality.

The first calculations and figures are currently tested at several greenhouse
projects. The program stays up to date by inputting new data and insights on continues bases. The next step could be creating an automated link between the already existing energy indoor and outdoor (enthalpy) and the energy demand of the fruit and plant.

Sweet Pepper Consultancy B.V.
G. Sweere
Cell +(31)6 51550530
info@sweetpepperconsultancy.nl

Vortus BV
B. Lobker
Cell +(31)6 53330605
info@vortus.eu