During winter cleanouts, greenhouse operators prepare facilities for the next production cycle, with hygiene remaining a critical focus. Effective sanitation during crop transitions plays a key role in reducing pathogen pressure and supporting long-term crop health, particularly in operations managing virus risks such as Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV).
Among the disinfectants commonly incorporated into greenhouse hygiene programs is Intra Multi Des GA, supplied in North America by Houweling Americas. "This product is widely used by vegetable and ornamental growers as part of both full cleanouts and routine sanitation strategies, particularly where deep penetration into complex surfaces is required," the Houweling Americas team shares.
© Houweling Americas
Penetration below the surface
Biofilm and organic residues continue to limit the effectiveness of many disinfectants by shielding microorganisms in cracks, crevices, and porous materials. According to the Multi Des GA technical team, the formulation is designed to address this challenge through penetration rather than surface-only activity.
"Intra Multi Des GA contains five active ingredients that work together to deliver strong penetration properties, allowing the product to reach microorganisms hiding in hard-to-access zones," the team explains. While not positioned as a dedicated biofilm remover, the formulation is intended to expose and eliminate pathogens protected beneath biofilm layers.
For best results, a two-step sanitation approach is recommended: thorough cleaning to remove organic matter and biofilm, followed by disinfection. "Skipping the cleaning step increases the risk that pathogens are not fully eliminated," the team notes, highlighting an ongoing opportunity for grower education around proper hygiene sequencing.
Role of cleaning prior to disinfection
As part of its Intracare product portfolio, Houweling Americas also supplies Intra Foam Organics, a cleaner designed to remove organic material ahead of disinfection. Organic residues can significantly reduce disinfectant performance if not fully removed, particularly on high-traffic or porous surfaces. When used as a first step, cleaners such as Intra Foam Organics help ensure that disinfectants can directly contact target pathogens.
Performance on porous and irregular surfaces
Concrete floors, block walls, and other porous greenhouse materials remain among the most difficult areas to sanitize. According to internal trials, Intra Multi Des GA performs reliably on these surfaces by moving into micro-crevices where pathogens can persist.
"When applied to porous materials such as concrete blocks, the formulation visibly moves through the substrate," the team explains. "This behavior differs from many traditional disinfectants that remain on the surface and fail to reach embedded microorganisms."
© Houweling Americas
Broad-spectrum pathogen control
Growers across crop types rely on Intra Multi Des GA to manage a wide range of pathogens, including fungal, bacterial, and viral threats. Its reported efficacy against ToBRFV has made it a key component of hygiene protocols in tomato production.
"Intra Multi Des GA has shown excellent efficacy against ToBRFV and has proven effective at eliminating the virus on contact when used correctly," the team reports. Beyond viral control, growers also use the product against pathogens such as Fusarium and Pythium across both vegetable and ornamental systems.
Residue behavior and crop turnover
Unlike residue-free disinfectants, Intra Multi Des GA is designed to leave a residual effect on treated surfaces during cleanouts, providing extended protection between crops. These residues are not intended for contact with harvested produce but are used to maintain sanitation during downtime.
Operational efficiency is another consideration. The product is applied at a low use concentration, requires a short contact time, and typically needs only one application, supporting fast crop turnovers without compromising hygiene standards.
Long-term sanitation outcomes
Growers incorporating Intra Multi Des GA consistently into crop rotation hygiene programs report cumulative improvements over multiple seasons. In one documented case, a Dutch tomato operation managing ToBRFV reported no subsequent infections after integrating the product into its cleanout protocol.
"Starting clean remains one of the most effective ways to reduce early-cycle infection risk," the team emphasizes.
Supporting growers across North America
Houweling Americas supplies Intra Multi Des GA and other Intracare solutions through established distribution partners and provides technical support to assist with implementation. In addition to hygiene products, the company's portfolio includes nutrient solutions, growing substrates, LED lighting, water treatment technologies, and biostimulants such as Intra Eco Shield, with Intra Boost, a next-generation willow bark–derived biostimulant, scheduled for North American launch in early 2026.
Based in British Columbia and Ontario, Houweling Americas works closely with growers to develop integrated solution programs that support yield, plant health, and resilience. The company is part of Royal Houweling, a Dutch family enterprise founded in 1925 and recently recognized with royal status for its long-term commitment to horticulture and sustainability.
For growers seeking technical guidance on hygiene protocols or product performance, the Houweling Americas team encourages direct engagement for further support.
For more information:
Houweling Americas
1-800-252-5824
houwelingamericas.com
