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Technical expertise in horticulture
In modern horticulture, sound technical knowledge is essential for success. This is especially true when it comes to transitioning to peat-reduced and peat-free substrates, which is a modern requirement in many countries for different reasons. Klasmann-Deilmann, a leading global substrate manufacturer, actively supports growers worldwide with an international team of technical consultants, helping them make this transition as smooth and successful as possible. By providing in-depth expertise and tailored substrate solutions, Klasmann-Deilmann ensures that growers can adapt to changing market or environmental demands without compromising crop security.
Regional expertise for tailored substrate solutions
Each Klasmann-Deilmann technical consultant specialises in a specific region, covering markets across Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, North and South America, as well as Africa. This structure allows consultants to account for regional differences in climate, cultivation practices, and regulations. “Direct dialogue with local customers and distributors helps us to understand current challenges and develop tailor-made solutions,” explains Anja Fritzen, Team Leader of Technical Consulting at Klasmann-Deilmann’s headquarters in Geeste. Close collaboration with R&D, quality management, and production teams ensures that products meet the highest standards and are continuously optimised.
Navigating the Properties of Alternative Raw Materials
The increasing demand for peat-reduced and peat-free substrates presents new challenges for growers. “Each crop reacts differently to substrate adjustments,” explains Anja Fritzen. “We work closely with our customers during the transition and adapt the nutrient supply in the substrate individually if necessary.”
To support this transition, Klasmann-Deilmann has developed the ADVANCED Substrate range, which incorporates a higher proportion of alternative raw materials while maintaining reliable crop performance. “Developing these modern, more sustainable hybrid recipes requires a deep understanding of the properties of different raw materials and their impact on plant growth,” Fritzen explains. “Here we benefit from our longstanding experience in manufacturing alternative constituents such as our special GreenFibre® woodfibre. This important and reliable constituent already accounts for around 50% in our total mix of alternative raw materials, making woodfibre — next to peat — our most important raw material for ADVANCED Substrates. We exclusively use input materials from clean, coniferous wood only, which has proven to be particularly suitable for substrate production.”
Adjusting Fertilization and Irrigation for Success
The shift to alternative raw materials requires some recalibration of fertilisation and irrigation practices. Alternative components vary in structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient dynamics when compared to the well know peat properties. While these differences present some challenges, they also open up opportunities for improved cultivation strategies.
“Our recommendation is to always make the change gradually and not to go straight from 100% peat to 100% alternatives,” says Anja Fritzen. “This step-by-step approach ensures a smooth transition. We support our customers throughout this process by analysing their crops on-site together with them and by providing customised recommendations for the application of the new hybrid substrates. Hence why our message is: Relax! Its Klasmann-Deilmann. We take care of your substrate. We know that know-how is key.”
With the ADVANCED Substrate range, Klasmann-Deilmann already offers proven solutions that meet the evolving needs of horticulture. These modern hybrid substrates have demonstrated their reliability and performance in many countries, helping growers successfully to cope with growing demand for peat-reduced and peat-free cultivation.
