Knowledge Exchange and Innovation in Plant Propagation

At this year’s Grodan International Propagation Seminar (IPS) in Dordrecht, top propagators from around the world gathered to share knowledge, network, and discuss the latest advancements in plant propagation and breeding. This event serves as a crucial platform for innovations that support a more sustainable future in horticulture. RED Horticulture was honored to contribute this year with a presentation on the photobiological effects on young tomato plants, made possible by our advanced LED lighting solutions.

Adjusting light spectrum and intensity to guide young plant growth
Paul Jochems, Agronomy Support Officer at RED Horticulture, presented our research conducted at the PARC research center. Paul demonstrated how strategic adjustments in light spectrum and intensity can guide young plant growth, especially in the critical period leading up to grafting.

Our research focused on tomato varieties DR0141 and Xaverius, revealing how these plants respond to specific light spectra:

Far-Red light for elongation: This spectrum promotes elongation of the hypocotyl, which enhances grafting by allowing for better stem attachment.

High Blue light for compact growth: High Blue light restricts height, giving growers greater control over plant size and supporting more precise timing within the production process.

By adjusting the spectra a few days before grafting, growers gain the flexibility to tailor plant morphology to their specific cultivation needs and schedules. This approach, enabled by our 4-channel LED lighting, demonstrates how growers can effectively control the growth of young tomato plants without compromising quality.

A valuable opportunity
The seminar as complete also provided us, RED Horticulture, with a valuable opportunity to engage with fellow experts. The breakout sessions, presentations, and company visit provided further insights and inspiration.

We thank Grodan and all IPS participants for an inspiring event. It was a great opportunity to brainstorm with industry peers about the future of propagation and to share our vision for smart lighting in plant propagation.