This trial and cultivation strategy reflect the practices implemented specifically at Finka in Querétaro, Mexico, based on local climate conditions, grower objectives, and technical guidelines used in the region. Growers in other countries may adapt their system differently depending on greenhouse technology, climate, and production goals.
In a context where sustainability, productivity, and efficiency are increasingly critical in horticulture, Finka San Antonio, in collaboration with Grodan, is leading a groundbreaking technical-commercial trial in Mexico: the use of stone wool slabs for growing tomatoes in high-tech greenhouses.
Located in San Juan del Río, Querétaro, Finka San Antonio is part of an ambitious expansion project of 21 hectares of diffuse glass greenhouses, where Grape and Cocktail tomatoes are grown exclusively for export to the United States and Canada.
“Our approach has always focused on technology and specialization. We don’t grow common tomatoes like Roma; we focus on specialty types,” explains Gerardo López, grower at the facility.
Stone Wool: A Trial with Positive Impact
The joint initiative arises in response to common technical challenges in Mexican hydroponic production: improving yield control and enabling water and nutrient recirculation, which is often hindered by sediment found in coco substrate drainage.
“In Mexico, most growers work with coco fiber, but that complicates drainage reuse. Grodan suggested running a trial with stone wool to achieve much cleaner drainage, and we accepted the challenge on a 2.4-hectare area already in production,” says Gerardo López.
With an independent irrigation system and direct technical support from Grodan, specific parameters were set for plant distribution, crop density, and irrigation programming. The results so far are encouraging: good yields, healthy roots, strong root uniformity, vigorous plant development, and clearer drainage — which could lead to savings of up to 30% in water and fertilizers through recirculation.
A Shared Vision for Growth
Beyond agronomic benefits, the project reflects a shared vision between grower and supplier.
“Innovation is part of how I work. Having partners like Grodan who bring real solutions and walk with you gives you confidence. It’s not just about testing, but about making it work,” says Gerardo López.
Grodan’s slogan, “Designed to Grow Together,” takes on real meaning in this partnership: a commitment between Finka and Grodan to develop sustainable and profitable solutions that address current needs and prepare the industry for a future where productivity and water availability are expected to become increasingly challenging.
“It’s vital to have suppliers who are part of the team, helping us become more efficient. These are no longer lab tests — they are commercial trials where we aim for real success,” he concludes.
With promising results and a clear vision, this collaboration could be a turning point in the adoption of new substrate technologies in Mexican horticulture, advancing water management practices and achieving optimal productivity, where improved crop control is a key factor in yields.
