Navigating the complexities of hydroponic leafy greens cultivation

Hydroponic systems have revolutionized the cultivation of leafy greens, offering advantages such as faster growth cycles, increased yields, and the ability to farm in controlled environments. These systems are particularly appealing for urban agriculture and regions with limited arable land. However, not all leafy greens are equally suited for hydroponic cultivation.

Understanding crop sustainability in hydroponics
While crops like lettuce thrive in hydroponic systems due to their adaptability and rapid growth cycles, others present challenges. Spinach, for instance, is prone to root diseases in water-based systems and requires advanced irrigation and treatment protocols to mitigate these issues. Similarly, lamb's lettuce has a slower growth rate, making it less competitive in hydroponic setups compared to soil-based cultivation. Wild rocket (rucola) is another example; its adaptation to arid conditions makes it sensitive to the moisture levels inherent in hydroponic systems, often leading to suboptimal yields and higher production costs.

These cases highlight the importance of crop selection in hydroponics. Environmental requirements, growth cycles, and yield potential all influence whether a leafy green can succeed in a high-tech setup. And of course, the financial side matters too - if a crop costs more to produce than the market will pay, it's simply not viable.

The importance of real world testing
Determining the suitability of a crop for hydroponic systems extends beyond theoretical knowledge. While seed companies provide valuable insights, real-world testing and experience are indispensable. Crops may technically grow in hydroponic environments, but without the right system configurations, they may suffer from issues like root diseases, poor yields, or other complications. That is why many successful growers invest time in trials and pilot systems to fine-tune their approach for each variety.

Join the conversation at the Leafy Hydroponics Summit 2025
If you are looking to deepen your expertise in hydroponic leafy greens, the Leafy Hydroponics Summit (LHS) is the place to be. It is a chance to exchange ideas, explore solutions, and build connections with others who share a passion for advancing this field.

LHS 2025 offers an invaluable opportunity; Scheduled for June 16-17 in Hoorn, the Netherlands, this two-day event will bring together industry leaders, growers, and technology providers to share insights, discuss challenges, and explore innovations in the field.

The first day of the LHS 2025 will open with a keynote presentation by Frank Hessing, from Hessing Supervers, offering a processor's perspective on leafy greens in retail. Attendees can look forward to two engaging panel discussions—one with international growers sharing cultivation insights and challenges, and another featuring leading technical partners addressing practical questions on optimizing leafy greens production. Throughout the day, event partners will present innovation-driven sessions focused on research and technology, each followed by Q&A opportunities to encourage interaction and exchange. Networking will continue informally during a shared lunch and evening dinner - ideal moments to connect with peers across the industry.

On Day 2, participants will have the opportunity to visit a grower of choice: Gitzels Plant Nursery, a key international supplier of young plants, or Green Simplicity, showcasing a vertical farming system for chrysanthemum propagation. The group will then head to JASA Packaging Solutions for a facility tour featuring their latest packaging innovations, followed by lunch. The afternoon will conclude with a visit to Enza Zaden's research station to explore their trials in both gutter and deep-float lettuce systems. All in all, two days full of knowledge exchange and networking can be expected.

The Leafy Hydroponics Summit is made for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of hydroponic leafy greens cultivation, network with growers from all over the world, share experiences, and learn from one another.

Participation in LHS 2025 is by invitation and free of charge for confirmed attendees. The number of available spots for the event is limited. For more information and to request an invitation, please visit the LHS webpage here.