Smart analyses and weekly monitoring for optimal cultivation and quality assurance
Arno explains: “Every week, Normec Groen Agro Control picks up samples from us. These samples are analyzed in the lab for factors such as soil and water composition. After the analysis, we receive a clear report with the results. This gives us insight into the health of the crop, allows us to collect data, and enables us to take immediate action and make adjustments as needed. For example, we use nutrient analyses to assess the level of nutrients in the soil or test the soil and water for the presence of residues. Based on the results, we determine whether additional fertilization is needed or whether we need to adjust our fertilization schedule. Fortunately, unexpected results are rare. Because we take and analyze samples weekly, we can respond quickly to even minor changes and know exactly what adjustments are needed. This gives us insight into the cultivation process, resulting in a healthy and vigorous crop for the customer.”
About Brabant Plant
Brabant Plant is a family-owned business in Haarsteeg that has been in operation since 1969, making it the first plant nursery in North Brabant. In 1991, Tiny van den Berk, representing the third generation, took over the company and expanded it into what it is today. Brabant Plant is a nursery that offers a wide range of plant material, including greenhouse vegetables, field-grown vegetables, flowering potted plants, and starting material for ornamental horticulture.
Reliability as a Key Building Block
“Our customers expect a reliable product from us. They trust us to deliver plants of consistently high quality. Because we’re a nursery, we must supply plants that our customers can use without any surprises. Many of our customers have been with us for generations—often a second or even third generation. We value reliable and long-term partnerships with our partners.” Joost van Buul, who is responsible for cultivation, adds: “I’ve been working here for 33 years, and throughout all those years, we’ve been working with Normec Groen Agro Control. It’s essential that we can rely on the quality of our partners. By having our samples analyzed at Normec, we benefit from the latest technologies and methodologies. Together, we ensure the consistent quality of our products.”
The Importance of Fertilization and Substrate Analysis
“By analyzing the fertilization and growing medium, we gain insight into the exact nutritional needs of our crops. These analyses allow us to apply the correct amount of fertilizers and nutrients to stimulate optimal growth and development. This results in the production of high-quality plants that meet our customers’ expectations. By determining which nutrients are already present in the growing medium, we also make more efficient use of fertilizers.”
Years of Fruitful Collaboration
Both Joost and Arno are very satisfied with the partnership. Joost: “Reliability is essential, and Normec Groen Agro Control absolutely meets our expectations. Thanks to our long-standing partnership, I know many colleagues within the organization. They’re always ready to support us, no matter what our needs are. Tuesday, for example, is our regular day for sample pickup. If we have extra samples, all it takes is one phone call and it’s taken care of.” Arno emphasizes: “Although we don’t have a dedicated contact person, our communication with the front desk and the lab always goes smoothly. The colleagues there are easy to reach and are always available to answer questions or offer advice. If the results require clarification, we always receive expert advice in the report. For us, it’s a fruitful collaboration that we’d like to continue in the future.”
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