Grodan has developed a patented vermiculite-free solution for high-tech propagation of tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. The new plugs and blocks improve the sowing process while maintaining optimal germination rates and top-performing plant quality in both the propagation and cultivation phase.
"Our innovative, industry-first vermiculite-free products are aligned with the growing needs of propagators – and their customers – for a cleaner greenhouse environment and more homogeneous crop, without having to compromise on sowing speed, germination rate and plant quality," comments Joost Haenen, Business support propagation, Grodan.
© Grodan
Cleaner, safer and more efficient propagation environment
For decades, vermiculite has been a reliable aid in germination, protecting seeds from drying out or receiving too much light. Yet its granular nature could pose some challenges: particles disperse easily, clogging irrigation systems, filters and transplanting machines, while also creating slippery, potentially hazardous conditions on greenhouse floors.
In today's high-tech, large-scale and increasingly automated propagation, efficiency and cleanliness are more important than ever. Grodan's new patented vermiculite-free Funnel M plugs for tomatoes and peppers and the VF block for cucumbers remove these barriers – delivering results equal to conventional working methods, but without the drawbacks. By removing vermiculite, propagators benefit from a cleaner and safer work environment. It also reduces time and costs linked to cleaning and maintenance, while helping ensure strong, homogeneous crop development right from the start.
© Grodan
Designed for seamless transition
Grodan's Funnel M plugs have been designed for compatibility with most modern sowing machines, supporting quick and accurate sowing at scale. Their optimized seed holes enable easy visual checks of seed placement, while no foil cover is required after sowing – saving both time and materials.
Next to the Funnel M plug, early trials with cucumber growers confirm that the new vermiculite-free block delivers excellent plant development, with strong stem stability, robust biomass and high germination success.
© Grodan
"These vermiculite-free solutions are rooted in science and designed to grow. Building on our proven Funnel S solution, which has already gained wide adoption among leading seed companies, the new Funnel M plug and VF block open the door for tomato, pepper and cucumber propagators to transition confidently towards cleaner and more sustainable propagation," adds Joost.
Developed together with customers
The products were developed in close collaboration with Grodan's customers. Large-scale trials with propagators have demonstrated that the transition is straightforward, low-risk and delivers immediate benefits. Many early adopters have already made the switch, citing cleanliness, efficiency and crop uniformity as decisive advantages.
"Next to the advantages in plant stability and development, we also see the benefit of less pollution – both for us and for our customers," says Erik Heijs, Cultivation Coordinator, Beekenkamp.
For more information:
Grodan
www.grodan.com
