On August 27, 2025, Tomatoworld officially kicked off the new growing season. In its greenhouse, which serves as a field lab for data-driven autonomous cultivation and robotics, the new plants have been carefully placed. This year, the choice of varieties remains deliberately unchanged, allowing full focus on optimizing growing conditions and running practical trials.
As in previous seasons, five well-known varieties will be cultivated, including classic vine tomatoes and colorful snack tomatoes. These are grown on three different types of substrate: rockwool, mosswool and coco coir.
New growing tubes for optimal climate control
One important innovation has been introduced this season: the installation of growth tubes. These tubes make it possible to regulate heat in the greenhouse more precisely and to manage the microclimate around the plants more effectively. This is particularly valuable in lit cultivation, where LED lighting produces less heat. The innovation contributes to a more energy-efficient and sustainable cultivation process.
"With this innovation, we can control the greenhouse climate even more precisely. That not only benefits the growth of our crops, but also provides valuable insights for the entire horticultural sector," explains Tomatoworld's crop manager, Nico Ammerlaan.
© Thijmen Tiersma | HortiDaily.comNico Ammerlaan at the opening of the Robo and Datalab earlier this year.
Tomatoworld open for visitors
With the start of the new growing season, Tomatoworld is once again opening its doors to visitors. From September 1, guided tours of the field lab and greenhouse have resumed, offering guests a unique behind-the-scenes look at how data, technology and robotics come together to make greenhouse horticulture more sustainable.
Tomatoworld also serves as an inspiring venue for meetings, networking events and conferences. Reservations can be made via [email protected].
Inside Tomatoworld, high-tech companies, startups and students work side by side on the development and practical application of advanced technologies such as 5G, IoT, AI and robotics. The field lab provides the perfect testing and demonstration ground for these solutions, with a strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and circular cultivation methods.
