When drought hits, water-wise growing matters

As heat and dry conditions challenge growers across the globe, the difference between field cultivation and greenhouse production becomes increasingly visible. While open fields depend heavily on rainfall, greenhouse growers can manage irrigation precisely and optimise growing conditions throughout the season.

Water management is crucial in greenhouse horticulture, as it directly impacts plant health, yield, and sustainability. Effective water use not only conserves valuable resources but also enhances crop quality and reduces costs.

“One excellent option for water efficiency is drip irrigation system, which is designed to deliver water efficiently, directly targeting the roots of plants. By delivering water directly to the roots, drip irrigation helps reduce evaporation and runoff, ensuring better moisture retention in the soil and minimize excess watering”, explains John Noordam, Regional Sales Manager.

Drip irrigation system ensures that crops get the right amount of moisture, promoting healthier plant growth and higher yields.

In addition to irrigation system, growing media have its role to play in effective water management.

A high-quality growing medium stores water, distributes it evenly around the root zone and makes it available to plants over time, while maintaining the air-filled structure that roots need to thrive. Peat has long been valued in professional horticulture for exactly these characteristics. Its excellent water retention capacity, combined with good aeration, helps create stable growing conditions and supports efficient use of irrigation water.

As climate become increasingly unpredictable, efficient water management and carefully designed growing media will continue to be key factors in resilient and resource-efficient horticulture.

In demanding urban environments, well‑designed growing media are essential. Biochar can be part of a solution that helps soils perform more consistently over time.