Zachtfruit Schalkwijk is situated on the island of Schalkwijk, surrounded by the water of the Amsterdam Rhine Canal and the Lek river, in a unique landscape that dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries. Click through the carousel to learn more about this Bayer ForwardFarm.
1. Planting material: Van Garderen collaborates with The Greenery to develop new plant varieties, with a significant focus on varietal purity and resistance to pests and diseases.
2. Crop protection: Biological, chemical and technological crop protection measures are combined to form an integrated cultivation system.
3. Decision support systems: Optimization of crop protection in terms of timing, based on crop growth and external (weather) conditions.
4. Precision technology: Optimization of crop protection application in terms of placement and quantity, based on soil and crop sensor data.
5. Storage: Storage is managed to optimize energy use and to maintain optimal quality of the berries.
6. Functional biodiversity: The planting of flower strips and a variety of hedges as a bed and breakfast for beneficial insects and as natural buffers between the crop and adjacent areas.
7. Apiary: Honeybees for pollinating crops.
8. Insect hotels: Nesting sites for solitary bees to support pollination, and shelters and nesting sites for beneficial insects such as earwigs and ladybugs.
9. easyFlow: A closed transfer system to prevent possible contact with crop protection products during filling.
10. Phytobac®: Optimal yard facility combined with a Phytobac® for the biodegradation of effluent.
11. Personal protection: To ensure the safety of crop protection product operators.
12. Partnerships: In addition to the three main partners, there are cooperations with various companies and institutes.