Resilient pepper growing in practice

On 6 August, Klasmann-Deilmann opened the doors of the Botany research station in Meterik to growers, business leaders, and greenhouse professionals for an inspiring afternoon on resilient growing. Together with experts from RHP and Kytos, the company explored how future-ready substrate solutions can help tackle today's cultivation challenges while preparing for tomorrow's demands.

© Klasmann-DeilmannJan Vanoverschelde presenting resilient substrate solutions in vegetable cultivation

The afternoon combined valuable knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Visitors were able to walk through the ongoing Klasmann-Deilmann pepper growbag trial, compare results, and exchange ideas directly in the greenhouse. The atmosphere was lively, with positive reactions from participants who found both the presentations and the trial itself insightful and inspiring.

Sustainability was a key theme. With measures such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) gaining influence, substrate choices will increasingly be judged on their environmental footprint. At the same time, research into the microbiome, the community of microorganisms in the substrate, is opening new possibilities for improving plant health and resilience. Kytos is at the forefront of developing tools to monitor and manage these microbial communities, and Klasmann-Deilmann shared how this could become a game changer for growers.

© Klasmann-DeilmannDiving into the ongoing pepper trial of Growbag Advanced

Another important shift that was discussed is the move from passive growing media to active substrates that support root health and help plants withstand stress. In the Klasmann-Deilmann pepper trial, Growbag Advanced has stood out with impressive results in both the company's own irrigation system and in rockwool systems, producing the highest fruit weight and number of fruits. Its success lies in the precise blend of Greenfibre® and coir, offering excellent water management and control.

Klasmann-Deilmann also introduced its Klimaneutral growbag, developed with TerraCoal®. While still in development, it already shows strong performance and has the added benefit of offsetting the CO₂ emissions from its production, packaging, and transport.

For those considering a switch to organic growing, the company's partners at RHP highlighted that organic substrates require a different approach: understanding pH buffering, mastering moisture dynamics, and adjusting irrigation strategies are key to unlocking their full potential. With decades of know-how and the dedicated support of the technical service team, Klasmann-Deilmann can guide you through every step of this transition, ensuring growers get the most out of your organic substrate from day one.

If you'd like to visit, please reach out to Jesse Clemens for the practical details.