Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) enables the cultivation of specific crops almost anywhere and at any time, irrespective of local climate conditions or seasonal influences on crop cycles. As Area Manager for Grodan in the Asia Pacific region, Tico van Leeuwen works closely with professional growers who are enjoying the benefits of this approach. Here, we share some real-life examples illustrating how Grodan’s products and solutions are ‘ Designed to grow anywhere, anytime’ .
Professional growers in the Asia Pacific region, who cultivate crops year-round in greenhouses despite extreme outdoor conditions, rely on expertise and guidance to optimize their operations. With daily contact with these growers, Tico van Leeuwen, Area Manager for Grodan, plays a crucial role in supporting their efforts. He helps them navigate challenges related to high temperatures, fluctuating light levels, and varying humidity, ensuring that their greenhouse environments remain conducive to optimal crop production. “All that’s needed is the basic greenhouse infrastructure: a high-tech greenhouse, a supply of water, electricity, a source of heat and, above all, a flat piece of land to build on,” says Tico.
“For example, I have a customer in Australia’s highest town, Guyra, which is situated 1,330 metres above sea level. They chose the location in a scientific and strategic manner because it offers the optimal growing conditions: high radiation intensity combined with moderate temperatures – yes, even in Australia!” he adds. Using today’s advanced technology such as heating, ventilation, humidification and lighting, the grower can create, manage and maintain an optimal microclimate inside the greenhouse. This is what’s known as ‘precision growing’.