Make sure to order all your required products on time. This saves you a lot of stress in the run-up to and during the crop rotation. Below is a list of products you will need for the crop rotation:

• High wire hooks and twine: in many vegetable crops, high wire hooks are used to bring the crop to the optimal working height and to tie up young plants more quickly. The high wire hooks can be supplied in various types and sizes, with different kinds of twine. Make sure to order your hooks on time, as they have an average production time of 6 to 10 weeks. Need help? Use our hook configurator to order high wire hooks quickly and easily.
• Substrate mats: substrate mats also need to be ordered in time. When choosing a substrate mat, the type of crop is the most important factor, as each crop has its own needs and expectations, which a substrate mat must meet. Consider characteristics like rapid root penetration of the plant or a completely controllable substrate. Furthermore, the choice depends on the intended use: some mats are suitable for one-year use, while others can be used for multiple years. Substrate mats have an average production time of about 8 weeks.
• Ground cover: ground cover—also known as weed barrier—is used in horticulture for various purposes such as light reflection, weed control, slope protection, and for clearing out the greenhouse. This lasts several years, but after about 5 to 7 years, it needs replacing. The type of ground cover you need varies depending on the application. Ground cover has an average production time of about 10 weeks.
• AC film: this film ensures that the condensation formed spreads over the surface of the film. The moisture adheres to the film, preventing droplets from forming and thus, preventing droplets from falling onto the crop. It also helps to create a warmer greenhouse climate for young plants. AC film should be ordered as early as possible due to the duration of the production process.
• Gutter film: this is a film that you attach around the cultivation gutters. It prevents residue formation and unwanted root growth, and it extends the life of the cultivation gutter. Installing gutter film can be done manually but is much faster with the help of a unwinding stand. Gutter film should also be ordered as early as possible.
• Clean out tarp: during the crop rotation, these tarp are laid in the paths between the crops. Then, the tarp with the old crop is pulled forward towards the shredding machine. In this way, the crop is shredded and disposed of.
• Other films: in some crops, other films are also used, such as substrate film, blackout film, or cover film. If you have questions about the other films, please contact your regular contact person.
• Clips: in tomato cultivation, clips are often used at the start of the new crop. These clips support the vulnerable young plant in certain places, preventing tearing or breaking. Clips have an average production time of about 4 weeks.
• CO2 hoses: these hoses allow CO2 to be distributed evenly throughout the crop. The choice of a particular type of CO2 hoses depends on your cultivation climate. The cultivation climate determines the required amount of CO2 in the crop and thus the diameter and spacing of the CO2 hose. When ordering CO2 hoses, make sure to measure them correctly. CO2 hoses should be ordered as early as possible due to the duration of the production process.
• Workwear: for the crop rotation, you need certain workwear:
  • Gloves that provide protection during heavy tasks such as lowering the hooks.
  • Dust masks and eye protection against the dust raised during clearing.
  • Rain suits and masks for cleaning and disinfecting the greenhouse.
• Knives and scissors: there are different knives and scissors for making the job as easy as possible, for example for cutting leaves or for cutting loose the plant.
• Stake and drip lines: these often last several years but need replacing every few years.
• Cleaning and disinfection products: cleaning and disinfection are crucial for a hygienic start to the new crop. Only in this way can diseases, bacteria, and pests from the old crop be combated, preventing contamination of the new crop. For more information about permitted products in your country, contact your regular contact person.
• Other products: other products you often need during the crop rotation include brooms, dustpans, wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, buckets, and measuring cups.

Want to know more about how to empty the greenhouse efficiently? Then watch our webinar on how to end the season with a spotless greenhouse.

The crop rotation is a hectic period. Within a short period of time the old crop has to go out and the new one in. Hygiene is crucial here. Just a small mistake can increase the risk of contamination of your new crop. With all its consequences. With this whitepaper you can clean and disinfect your greenhouse step-by-step for a clean start.

Some operations during the crop rotation tasks, such as removing the crop (Super Twister and Multiroller), shredding the crop (Bio Chopper), removing film, atlas wires and screen cloth (AC-E roller), unwinding other materials (Bio Hopper XL), and cleaning the greenhouse (Aquajet), can be done with machines. These machines make the work much less labor-intensive and also save time. If you want to use (one of) these machines, make sure to order or rent them in time.

The run-up to the crop rotation is a relatively quiet period for many companies. Use the available time to check the machines and devices you need during the crop rotation. For example, check the batteries of the pipe rail trolleys, ensure the forklifts are working properly, and replace the nozzles of the high-pressure cleaner if necessary. Necessary parts can be easily ordered through the Parts Finder.

Managing all service and maintenance activities is a big job but essential for business operations and safety. Preventive maintenance helps you avoid downtime, malfunctions, and thus unnecessary costs. The Service Engine helps you manage service and maintenance at your company easily.

In October, most vegetable companies are in the final phase of the crop. The biological balance of natural enemies in the crop is coming to an end. It is important that you thoroughly 'clean spray' the old crop just before the crop rotation. This way, you prevent insects from leaving their pupae on the greenhouse floor or elsewhere, and other diseases and pests from remaining. This will immediately affect you in the new crop. In most cases, the crop is clean sprayed with (broad-spectrum) chemical crop protection products.

Ensure a smooth crop rotation with this comprehensive checklist. Learn how to order the necessary products and machines on time, perform essential maintenance, and minimize pests effectively. Follow these best practices to streamline your crop rotation period and prevent surprises, ensuring your new crops thrive.

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