Research performed by knowledge centre Applied Plant Research (PPO) in Randwijk has revealed that if an optimum substrate is used, in just one year trees cultivated in gutter systems can already offer more advantages compared with soil-grown trees. Legro developed a new substrate for the purpose of this study into gutter cultivation. The development involved much experimentation with the cocos percentage in the blend, and with success.
Cultivation in gutters has many benefits compared with pots. For instance, the weather is no longer an essential factor during planting and harvesting, water and nutrients supplies can be managed optimally and the whips develop more uniformly. In addition, clean substrate can be used each year, which reduces the damage caused by wildlife and susceptibility to diseases. By using this new substrate in gutters, a more standard end product is grown that will develop better when subsequently planted out. Moreover, equally importantly: employees can work at the correct height.
This was more than enough to convince Boomkwekerij Van Voorthuijsen in Randwijk , The Netherlands, to invest in this method. In close cooperation with the tree nursery, Legro developed a substrate containing cocos, one of our most important ingredients. To demonstrate that cocos results in excellent development, we cultivated a number of trees in 100% cocos. The result? They grew at almost the same rate as trees grown in a blend of various ingredients. This shows that cocos deserves to be taken seriously as an ingredient.
The next step: how to achieve optimal tree growth at potting on. Boomkwekerij Van Voorthuijsen is extremely satisfied with how well their trees have grown in the Legro substrate. The cocos ensures good, even drainage of the whips, and an airy blend. Now to accept the following challenge: developing a substrate that retains optimal tree growth at potting on. Trees are just like people in this respect: moving to a new environment means adapting. Tree nurseries often fail to pay enough attention to this aspect. Legro is therefore currently working on developing and testing substrates for the next cultivation phase. Our ingenious and original way of mixing and blending means we will be able to supply an optimal blend for this stage of a cultivation in the near future.
Direct supply from the Baltic States
Optimal substrate blends are customised in the Netherlands to suit every type of cultivation. We also offer a range of peat substrates, unprocessed raw materials supplied direct from our peat fields in the Baltic States. The pure raw materials can be supplied direct from our production sites in Estonia and Latvia. We always ensure the most efficient logistic process.
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