In trials and economic analyses managed by Primary Principles, ultrafiltration proves a cost effective and viable disinfection system for cucumber growers. Funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia through the vegetable levy and with the assistance of NSW DPI, the project – Confirmation of ultrafiltration as a viable low cost water disinfection and nutrient solution recycling option – has shown that not only can this technology reliably remove key fungal pathogens from the hydroponic run-off, but for typical hydroponic cucumber farms, the investment can quickly pay for itself.
Some 65% of the more common pathogens of hydroponic cucumber production can be spread through water, making the reuse of the nutrient run-off a high disease risk but ultrafiltration has been shown to remove potentially devastating fungal pathogens, such as Fusarium oxysporum.
Cucumber growers can increase water and nutrient efficiency with ultrafiltration without spending all the savings on the treatment system. Closed system hydroponics can offer up to 40% savings in fertiliser and water costs but commonly, especially for smaller farms, water disinfection can be unreliable and cost prohibitive. Primary Principles has done the numbers and now there is every reason for cucumber growers to implement a closed hydroponic system. An investment of just $20k in an ultrafiltration disinfection system for a 5000m2 hydroponic cucumber enterprise could give a grower a return on their investment of 30%* in just 5 years. Conditions vary between farms so always seek independent financial advice before making any investment decision.
* Analyses are based on a number of economic assumptions which may be different to your enterprise and investment costs are estimates only. Seek independent financial advice before making any investment decision. This information is provided on the basis of knowledge and understanding at the time of writing and is general in nature. Primary Principles Pty Ltd does not warrant or represent that the information and assumptions in this document (including statements, opinions, forecasts and third party data) are accurate, complete or current, or that it may be relied upon for any particular purpose. Any representation, statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied is made in good faith on the basis that Primary Principles Pty Ltd is not liable for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to a person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to in this report.
Read the article in the December issue of Practical Hydroponics & Greenhouses (www.hydroponics.com.au) and for more information, visit www.primaryprinciples.com.au
A simple estimate analysis for your enterprise can be obtained through cyberSULT: http://www.primaryprinciples.com.au