We have to go back decades when the first truckload of substrate for the Cordyline Australis was delivered to Levoplant by BOL specialist in substrates. "A lot has changed between then and now. The substrate has been adjusted several times after thorough consultation to achieve optimal growth," says BOL.
© BOL Specialist in Substraten
In recent years, the demand for peat-free substrates has increased, and this has also been addressed. As part of the Cordyline australis production is destined for the UK market, trials with peat-free substrates have been underway for three years.
"There are several factors to consider," the substrate specialist explains. "Peat-free mixes naturally have a smaller water and nutrient buffer. In addition, Cordyline has a relatively long cultivation period. Young organic materials gradually decompose over time, which can cause the plant to become unstable in the pot. Of course, existing growing floors, irrigation methods and fertilisation strategies must also be taken into account."
According to the company, the initial results provided valuable insights. Plants remained somewhat smaller and lighter in colour due to a rising pH and an unfavourable balance of nutrients. "After making adjustments, we already saw better and stronger Cordylines in the second year, grown on a fully peat-free substrate."
This year, Levoplant has taken the next step, with more than 100,000 plants now being grown on a peat-free substrate. In addition to a coconut-based mix, the company is also testing substrates made from other circular raw materials, such as bark, wood fibre and compost. This approach is being explored partly because coconut-based substrates come with relatively high costs.
The initial results are positive. "They look fine," the company reports.
© BOL Specialist in Substraten
Milco from Levoplant highlights the close cooperation with BOL, specialist in substrates. "The collaboration with BOL is excellent. Our substrate is always delivered in bulk. Given the pace and workload in our operation, ordering a new delivery sometimes slips our attention. Fortunately, BOL is always able to deliver the substrate into our soil bunker within a few hours."
"BOL also supplies the top-dressing bark, which helps reduce weed pressure and moss growth. We continue to work closely together to improve both quality and application. The trials with peat-free substrates are highly instructive, and they are bringing us closer to the desired result."
Bram of BOL, specialist in substrates, adds: "A peat-free substrate sounds attractive, but producing a good crop with it often requires adjustments, both from us and, certainly, from the grower. Over the past few years, we have learned a great deal from substrates with reduced peat content and a higher share of wood fibre, compost, bark or coconut. As a result, we rarely encounter major surprises anymore. I particularly enjoy the fact that, after several years of intensive cooperation, this approach has been successfully implemented at Levoplant."
For more information:
BOL
Nieuw Oranjekanaal 95
3151 XL Hoek van Holland
Tel.: +31 (0)174 517300
[email protected]
https://bolpotgrond.nl
Levoplant
Pouwelslaan 31
2675 BK Honselersdijk
Tel.: +31 (0)174 521015
[email protected]
https://www.levoplant.nl/
