New 5.1-hectare chrysanthemum greenhouse focuses on energy efficiency

In Naaldwijk, in the Westland region of the Netherlands, chrysanthemum growers Teun van der Lugt and Richard Duijvestijn have built a new 5.1-hectare greenhouse for Santini chrysanthemums. The project supports the shared ambition of their nursery, VDL-Brasil, and grower cooperative Zentoo to expand the cooperative’s Santini chrysanthemum supply. Energy efficiency was a central focus throughout the project.

The new greenhouse will be connected to the geothermal heat network, linking it to two neighboring sites operated by Van der Lugt, also located on the Hoge Noordweg in Naaldwijk, measuring 3.6 and 3.8 hectares respectively. Chrysanthemums for Zentoo are grown at both locations as well. “The system allows us to recover heat from the greenhouse and store it in a buffer tank,” says Van der Lugt, describing the sustainability goals behind the project.

Huisman Screen Systems is currently installing the screening systems. The greenhouse will be fitted with a blackout screen and an energy screen, both supplied by Ludvig Svensson. This combination was chosen to maximize energy savings. The energy screen is also diffuse, ensuring even light distribution across the crop and contributing to a more uniform growing result. Roller, intermediate, and pathway screens will be installed vertically to allow the Santini chrysanthemums to be blacked out and supplementarily lit as needed. For optimal climate control, the growers are using the Airmix Active in combination with the Airmix Model T, both from Van der Ende Group, proven technologies chosen to ensure a stable growing climate.

To safeguard crop security, Huisman Screen Systems will begin installing insect netting, supplied by Ventiguard, for the greenhouse’s integrated roof vents once the structure is ready for planting. The netting will be mounted from the outside using specially developed netting shuttles. According to Thom Groenewegen, sales manager at Huisman Screen Systems, this method prevents plant damage from movement inside the greenhouse and avoids delays to VDL-Brasil’s planting schedule.

During a site visit, Groenewegen walked through the various stages of the screen installation process, offering insight into the technical choices made and the practical execution of the project on location.

For more information:
Huisman Screen Systems
Tel.: +31 (0)174 512733
[email protected]
www.huismanscreensystems.com