This aricle details Grodan, a growing media company based in the Netherlands. The interview is with Joyce Rasquin, Business Development Manager at Grodan.
Grodan stands out through our comprehensive root zone management solution, which includes more than just growing media. We provide advanced sensors to monitor root zone conditions, a digital platform for data analysis, and expert advice and services. This integrated approach, backed by over 50 years of industry experience and continuous knowledge development through collaborations with trial stations and universities, sets us apart. Our focus on innovation and adapting to new cultivars, diseases, and global trends ensures that our knowledge remains current and valuable.
Our focus is on two key areas: our 'handprint' and 'footprint'. The 'handprint' involves collaborating with the sector to promote growth, requiring investments and knowledge expansion in controlled environmental agriculture. Our 'footprint' addresses the sustainability of our products, focusing on eco-design and production improvements. We aim to balance sector growth with sustainable practices, nurturing talent, and driving innovation in substrate production.
The choice between soil and substrates like stonewool depends on the grower's objectives. Stonewool substrates, being pathogen-free, offer control and flexibility in crop steering for desired outcomes, whether it's quantity or flavor. With proper management, stone wool can achieve excellent results, potentially surpassing soil in terms of yield and quality. Its clean nature also benefits crop management operations.
Grodan began about 50 years ago, driven by two parallel developments: the Dutch government's prohibition of soil disinfection and a production mishap at our parent company, which led to the discovery that plants could grow on certain insulation materials. This sparked the creation of our stonewool substrate, designed to allow growers to precisely control water and nutrient delivery for higher yields and resource efficiency. Our technology includes sensors and a digital platform for substrate management. Over the years, we've built extensive knowledge and provide technical support, contributing to our reputation as a leader in sustainable growing solutions.
Reorder frequency varies based on crop type and location. Some customers enter multi-year contracts, while others prefer new deliveries for each crop cycle. Logistics and recent global supply chain issues also influence ordering patterns. We aim to accommodate different customer needs, considering their proximity to production sites and specific crop requirements.
Traditionally, our major focus has been on vine crops and cannabis. Recently, there's been a significant increase in indoor lettuce cultivation. Strawberries are emerging as a new focus due to challenges in outdoor growing, such as labor and disease issues, and changing water regulations. We're also observing growing interest in other soft fruits, reflecting consumer demand for fresh and healthy produce.
Working in controlled environment agriculture has been incredibly inspiring. This sector's rate of innovation and commitment to sustainable produce is remarkable yet under-recognized. The complexity of using plants instead of machines for production presents intriguing challenges. Understanding the intricate interplay of light, humidity, temperature, and nutrients in plant growth has been a fascinating and enriching experience.
As part of the Rockwool organization, specific figures on employees and customers are not disclosed. However, we operate three production locations worldwide, are active in 70 countries, and have production staff in 15 countries. This global presence underlines our commitment to providing sustainable growing solutions across diverse regions and markets.
Those interested in learning more about Grodan can start with our website.
[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Plenty Vertical Farming? In this article you will learn all about Plenty stock, revenue, location, investments, and more. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Spread Japan Vertical Farming? In this article you will learn all about Spread stock, revenue, location, investments, and more. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Jones Food Company Vertical Farming? In this article you will learn all about Jones Food Company stock, revenue, location, investments, and more. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Bowery Farming? In this article you will learn all about Bowery Farming stock, revenue, location, investments, and more. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is AeroFarms Vertical Farming? In this article you will learn all about AeroFarms stock, revenue, location, investments, and more. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Container Farming? How Does It Work? In this article you will learn all about Container Farming and how it is related to vertical farming. Click to learn more!
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] How do you control root aphids? In this post we will discuss the best solutions to control root aphids in your garden, indoor farm, and more! Click to learn...
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] What is Precision Agriculture? What are the advantages, who are the most important precision agriculture companies? Click here to learn all of this and more...
View Full Interview[UPDATED FOR 2023] In this post we will talk about what renegenerative agriculture is. What are the advantages, disadvantages, and more! Click to read more...
View Full Interview[UPDATED for 2023] What is Ag-Tech? What technologies count as Ag-Tech? What are the benefits and goals of Ag-Tech? What does the future of Ag-Tech look like? Click to learn more!
View Full Interview