Developing new substrates with cultivated fibres

In our ongoing Public Private Partnership with Wageningen Plant Research at Wageningen University & Research, the aim is to develop and research the effect of new substrates. By using organic materials – in our case, renewable cultivated fibres – in growing media, we develop ‘Fit for Purpose’ substrates that are more sustainable for the future.

Our team members Lisa and Richard, visited the WUR greenhouse to evaluate the progress. In the project, led by Chris Blok, we research how to make use of organic residual flows in growing media, soil improvers, peat substitution, and carbon storage. Our aim is to find the right cultivated fibres for growing media, an innovation that promises to revolutionize horticultural practices. During the visit, we observed growing tests for 10 different peat-reduced substrate applications. Three of which were contributed by our team.

The visit reinforced our belief in the potential of these novel substrates and also strengthened our partnership with WUR. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration holds for sustainable growing in the sector and look forward to sharing more updates in the future.

Special thanks also to Van Thi Hong Nguyen and Chris Blok for sharing this important journey for the sector with us, and Arjan as the main contact for the project from our side. Let’s grow together for a better future.