A large delegation from the Wase Tuindersgilde, a growers' association in the Waasland region of Belgium, visited Phormium's production site in Lokeren for an in-depth study day focused on screen cloths and their role in modern, energy-efficient and profitable cultivation.
© Phormium
During a presentation and guided tour through the company's various departments, including extrusion, weaving, knitting, finishing and R&D, tomato growers learned how Phormium's screen cloths are developed and manufactured, and which specific properties contribute to strong crop performance.
The central theme of the day was optimal light use. Phormium's screen cloths are designed to minimise light loss, allowing crops to make maximum use of available sunlight. In tomato cultivation in particular, this is considered the most important factor for achieving high yields and healthy plant growth.
The study day also addressed how screen cloths contribute to thermal insulation and energy savings, a factor of growing importance given current energy market pressures. By retaining heat in the greenhouse for longer, growers can reduce energy consumption without compromising light quality or crop vigour.
© Phormium nv
Moisture and air permeability were highlighted as critical properties, as these directly influence greenhouse climate and help prevent humidity problems or unwanted fluctuations in temperature and moisture levels.
The morning session concluded with lunch in which, fittingly, tomatoes featured prominently. The group then continued the study day with a visit to Tomato Masters in Deinze, for a first-hand look at practical applications.
For more information:
Phormium
Vitalina Tsourkan
T. +32 489 775 553
[email protected]
www.phormium.com
