Its aim as always, is to provide propagators from around the world with a unique opportunity to catch up on the latest technological developments within the industry and to strengthen global networks.
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Lights and plant physiology
Leo Marcelis, Professor Horticulture and Product Physiology Group, WUR
In greenhouses and vertical farms LED lamps provide opportunities for improving growth, yield and product quality. Furthermore, LEDs can save energy compared to other lamps. Light has different characteristics such as intensity, daily light integral, photoperiod, spectrum, direction and heat. All these characteristics can have profound effects on plant growth, development and quality.
In this presentation Leo Marcelis will discuss physiological, developmental and morphological responses of horticultural crops to light (intensity, spectrum, position, photoperiod) resulting in improvements in growth and plant quality.
Multi-channel controls for LED lights based on customer wish & trials results
As LED lighting solutions become standard in greenhouse production, also propagators are implementing this new technology. Propagators typically focus on a wide range of crops, varying from the well-known vegetables like Tomato, Cucumber and Sweet Pepper but also a broad selection of ornamentals. Different crops, varieties and plant stages are grown in the same propagation area. Multi-channel control offers flexibility to create specific spectra, supporting growth and steering towards the desired morphology of various crops. We would like to explain the technical details, challenges and possibilities in multi-channel control as well as sharing valuable insights from our propagation trials done in the IDC-LED (Innovation & Demo Centre LED) at WUR (Wageningen University & Research), a collaboration between WUR and Signify.
Rob van Hulzen, Technical Consultant Air Treatment, Van der Ende
Ben van der Heide, Chief Sales Officer, Bosman van Zaal
Marta Streminska, Scientific Researcher Microbial Ecology, WUR
Microbes are essential for plant growth, influencing nutrient supply and resilience to stresses. Traditionally, research focused on preventing plant pathogens in greenhouses. However, molecular techniques have revealed the diversity and abundance of beneficial microbes in the rootzone, especially in soilless systems. Different growing media and environmental factors like temperature, pH, and oxygen availability affect the rootzone microbiome. Crop species, cultivar, and age also play a role. Understanding these microbes' functions can enhance plant productivity and sustainability in future soilless cultivation systems. This presentation will introduce to us root zone microbiome.
Panel discussion - Nursery hygiene and managing root zone quality
The panel discussion on "Nursery hygiene and managing root zone quality" will explore the critical role of maintaining cleanliness in nurseries to prevent plant pathogens and ensure healthy plant growth. Experts will discuss the importance of root zone quality, highlighting how beneficial microbes can enhance nutrient uptake and plant resilience. The discussion will cover various factors affecting the root zone microbiome, including growing media, environmental conditions, and crop characteristics. Attendees will gain insights into innovative strategies for optimizing root zone health, ultimately leading to more productive and sustainable nursery operations.
Moderator: Andrew Lee, Grodan
Option 1: Automation and the human touch, the best of both worlds for grafting tomato
Julia Erftemeijer, Sales consultant, Artechno
Changing the way of propagate your young plants with AVF+. AVF+ Young Plants is an advanced solution for revolutionary propagation of all kinds of (young) plants. This innovative system enables growers to grow consistently strong quality plants at a high density by controlling all environmental variables such as temperature, light, humidity and nutrients. After the plants are grown up, they can be (transferred) into the existing cultivation method and greenhouse for further propagation.
Added values:
Option 2: Early strategies for crop resilience
From Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to Integrated Crop Management (ICM). Coordinating all the different facets in horticulture.
Plant–microbe interactions support soil health and ecosystem resilience. Bacteria and fungi compete for nutrients, space, and survival. Regulating microbial community structures influences nutrient cycles, soil structure and enlarges plant health.
Morphological Impact of Silicon (Si) and Iodine (I)
Si and I are increasingly recognized as beneficial trace elements that influence plant morphology. They help to resist abiotic stressors and improve physiological performance.
Silicon provides thicker, more rigid leaves and stems, improves leaf angle and orientation. Enhances root systems and calcium uptake.
Iodine enhances photosynthesis, root branching and root hair formation. Improving leaf expansion, color and encouraging early flowering and in some cases better flower morphology.
Vermiculite free growing - Experiences at Propagator Van Geest
Vermiculite is commonly used in propagation, despite its drawbacks. These include increased costs for machine maintenance and cleaning, and slippery floors. This presentation will show that growing without vermiculite is feasible and beneficial. Grodan and Van Geest a high-tech propagator will discuss and present their learnings from common trials, highlighting the experiences, possibilities, and benefits of vermiculite-free products.
*Breakout sessions will run concurrently to each other, in this way we aim to offer a more tailored package to suit your own specific needs
Location of the International Propagation Seminar 2024
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