The research is explained by the grower during a tour of the researches in Cultivation Research
Honselersdijk, July 2024
In recent years, pepper cultivation has been confronted with an unexpected reduction in root quality, which can lead to root death and even premature termination of the cultivation. This results in uncertainty and significant yield loss for growers. By early detection of root problems, growers can adjust their cultivation strategy more quickly, leading to faster recovery and less production loss. A group of second-year students from the Horticulture & Agribusiness course at Inholland University of Applied Sciences, in collaboration with the business community, have completed a research project that focused on the early detection of root problems in pepper plants and how plant stress during pepper cultivation can disrupt root development. This is done using new digital technologies such as biosensors. The students worked closely with cultivation company Zwingrow, Vivent Biosignals and Inholland University of Applied Sciences, with a financial contribution from Top Sector Tuinbouw & Uitgangsmaterialen and Groeifonds Katapult to stimulate digitalization and energy-efficient cultivation.
Research method
For six months, the Inholland students monitored forty pepper plants, twenty of which were grown on rock wool and twenty on coconut substrate. Using high-tech biosensors from Vivent Biosignals, Sendot photosynthesis meters and plant temperature meters, they collected detailed data about the health and activity of the plants. How the Plant Balance Index (PBI), plant activity, water status, calcium status and potassium status were analyzed? Using Vivent Biosignals’ live online dashboard, calculations and models are created using artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Research findings
The measurements from the biosensors show that, although initially pepper plants seem to do better on rock wool, slightly later in the season plants grown on a coconut substrate experience less stress. The largest significant differences were observed, especially in plant activity and water balance. The students’ measurements also showed that the plant load on coconut substrate was higher from mid-April than on rock wool. Visually, a somewhat healthier (whiter) root system could be seen, although the differences between plants were very large. The measurements from the biosensors indicate that the pepper plants grown on coconut seemed to absorb water better, probably because they had a better root system.
These findings have not only contributed to new insights into pepper cultivation, but have also given an impetus to the collaboration between Vivent Biosignals and educational institutions such as Inholland University of Applied Sciences. The project emphasizes the importance of digital technologies in horticulture and the value of practice-oriented education for the next generation of professionals. The collaboration takes a step forward towards innovation and sustainability of Dutch horticulture.
