Cooperation is important because the grower knows the greenhouse

“The disease can be the result, but often not the cause,” says Growing Supporter Hassan Hadid of Schoneveld Breeding. It is an important distinction when a crop shows uneven growth, damage or symptoms of disease. Responding quickly matters, but finding the correct cause matters even more. It can prevent unnecessary crop protection treatments, reduce corrective work and help the crop recover more effectively.

Growing Supporters Rick Slingschroder, Herbert van Gijtenbeek and Hassan Hadid support growers worldwide. Together, they combine knowledge of cultivation, climate and plant health. Their goal is not to prescribe one standard growing method, but to work with each grower towards the best possible crop.

Looking beyond the symptom
Damaged leaves may suggest a pest or disease. However, climate stress, an incorrect pH or limited nutrient uptake can produce similar symptoms. Looking at the complete greenhouse situation can therefore make the difference between treating a visible symptom and resolving its underlying cause.

In one case, repeated chemical treatments had failed to solve a crop problem. Climate stress had weakened the plants, giving pathogens more opportunity to develop. After assessing the greenhouse conditions, Growing Support suggested a more active climate. The crop became stronger and the need for corrective crop protection decreased.

The symptoms of another case initially indicated Cyclamen mite damage. Measurements revealed a different cause: calcium deficiency. The grower supplied enough calcium, but the pH was too low for the crop to absorb it properly. Adjusting the pH resolved most of the problem.

“We also learn from growers,” Rick adds. “It is a shared approach to create the best possible crop.” This cooperation is important because the grower knows the greenhouse and the daily production process. Growing Support adds a fresh perspective knowledge, and experience from other regions.

Support that fits the greenhouse
No single cultivation method works for every grower. Greenhouse technology, climate, irrigation, water quality, available light and production planning differ between companies and regions. A practical solution must therefore fit within the grower’s existing system.

“You need to know the grower, the history of the crop and the way the greenhouse is managed,” Herbert says. “What works for one grower does not automatically work for another.”

Growing Support starts with listening, observing and asking questions. The team then looks at possible adjustments to climate control, fertilization, irrigation, crop protection, production timing or the selection of suitable genetics.

For one grower, the right combination of Cyclamen genetics and cultivation support extended the production period by two months. The new crop still had to fit alongside other crops in the greenhouse, so changing the complete production method was not realistic. The team instead looked for adjustments that worked within the existing production system.

“It is about making improvements that fit within the grower’s reality,” Rick explains.

Knowledge within reach
Rick, Herbert and Hassan regularly discuss crop questions, compare observations and share experiences. Together, they support growers of Cyclamen, Gerbera, Gaultheria, Primula, Ranunculus and Campanula under a wide range of climate conditions.

This support is not limited to greenhouse visits. Young plant growers and growers can also share photos, measurements and crop updates through WhatsApp, email, phone or online meetings. “You do not have to wait for a greenhouse visit,” Herbert says. Regular contact allows the team to follow the crop, discuss changes and respond before a small doubt develops into a larger problem.

Growing Support can be involved when preparing a crop, adjusting the greenhouse climate or reviewing crop protection options. Growers do not have to wait until visible damage appears. “A question at the right moment may prevent weeks of corrective work later,” Hassan concludes.

For more information:
Schoneveld Breeding
Sluinerweg 15