Tomatoworld was founded 12 and a half years ago. This Dutch company has decided to transform its demonstration greenhouse. It's to become a data-driven farming field lab. They're doing so with the future in mind. And in collaboration with Hoogendoorn Growth Management, LetsGrow.com, and its other partners.
Westland's mayor, Bouke Arends, will officially launch the project on 29 April. The development is "the perfect anniversary gift to our global business partners. They want to be at the forefront of the Dutch greenhouse horticulture sector's innovations." That's according to Miranda van den Ende.
Data-Driven Growing (DDG)
DDG, as the name implies, uses and analyses data to optimize crop health and production. The greenhouse's climate computer, sensors, and cameras collect information 24/7. This raw data is converted into smart information. That's displayed in dashboards. So, it's easy to see what's currently happening or will soon happen in the greenhouse.
Data is continually collected during cultivation. It generates real-time insights into greenhouse conditions and plant health. Growers can use this information to drive artificial intelligence and machine learning. These will learn and become even smarter.
Historic information allows trends to be discovered. Growers can plan ahead and make predictions. Cultivation can also be proactively managed. That's based on farmers' quality, quantity, and ROI objectives.
The system decides
Tomatoworld has fitted its greenhouse with the IIVO. This is Hoogendoorns' process control innovation. This system monitors and controls each greenhouse. It lets farmers grow more, higher-quality crops while using minimal resources.
The system combines powerful algorithms, growing environment data, physics, and plant physiology. In doing so, it can make the best decisions. These are for the greenhouse plants' optimal growth. The IIVO, LetsGrow.com system, and dozens of cameras and sensors are being used. This combination makes it possible for Tomatoworld to start and implement DDG.
'Ultimate showcase'
"Tomatoworld doesn't only want to showcase this innovative technique. We also want to help validate and develop this unique farming method. That's along with our innovative partners," says Miranda. "Companies, from start-ups to multinationals and educational institutions, are already participating in the project. Tomatoworld aims to become the data-driven cultivation strategy's ultimate global showcase."
The project is made possible and supported by Hagelunie innovation fund and Greenport West Holland.
For more information:
Tomatoworld
Website: www.tomatoworld.nl
Email: info@tomatoworld.nl