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At Kwekerij Van Winden, energy savings and gas reduction are top priorities. But the challenge also lies in creating a stable greenhouse climate, which benefits not only Zamioculcas but all crops. Zamioculcas is a tropical houseplant, so higher humidity is acceptable during cultivation. However, “to keep the plant active, the climate must stay well-balanced,” explains Tom van Winden. For this reason, they’ve installed ErfGoed floors that ensure excess water drains quickly, preventing it from sitting in the pots. Achieving a lower relative humidity (RH) also promotes more plant activity, resulting in stronger, more resilient crops.

Kwekerij Van Winden has implemented various sustainable growing techniques. They use double screen installations, with one screen double-layered for added insulation to save energy and retain heat. Lighting is provided by SON-T lamps, and they’re testing LED technology as they look toward the future. “We know LED is where the future lies, so we’re exploring it,” says Tom’s father, André van Winden.

To further optimize the climate, they considered dehumidification and decided to install DryGair in the fall of 2023 after hearing positive feedback from a fellow grower. “It’s like hearing about a new vacuum cleaner at a party that works perfectly, and you even get a demonstration. That’s how it was with DryGair,” André explains. Information from Royal Brinkman about potential savings and payback time also played a significant role in their decision.

Kwekerij Van Winden has found that using DryGair requires a new approach to cultivation—adjusting not only the lights, ventilation, and screens but also the dehumidification to control the climate. One key benefit is gas savings, with DryGair helping them reduce gas usage by approximately 15-20%. The system provides a stable climate, beneficial for all crops. Lower RH increases plant activity, making crops more resilient. “We hope to eventually see these improvements reflected in better plant quality,” says Tom.

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