From ornamental to food production, pumpkins can be adapted to a wide range of climates and soils. Irrigation management and soil biology are crucial factors to achieve optimal yields.
In the case of pumpkins, drip irrigation presents itself as an ideal solution. This method allows water to be applied directly to the root zone, ensuring efficient absorption and avoiding water waste in other areas. In addition, precision irrigation allows for adding specific nutrients to the water, providing the plants with the essential elements for robust and healthy fruit growth in a gradual and controlled manner. This type of system has proven particularly useful in large pumpkin crops, where growers are looking to maximize fruit weight and size without affecting soil structure and health, such as Danish producer Peter Holst Olsen.
Scandinavian record for giant pumpkins with AZUD technology
This year, Peter broke into the pumpkin championship with a historic record, setting the Danish and Nordic record with a giant pumpkin weighing 1,115.8 kilos, which is also the second-largest pumpkin in Europe. He achieved this impressive achievement thanks to a cultivation strategy involving an advanced AZUD irrigation system, specifically adapted to enhance fruit size and soil quality.
To achieve this record, the Danish company Direct España has installed AZUD Premier PC irrigation pipes, 25 cm apart. This is a self-compensating drip irrigation system that provides uniform water distribution, regardless of pipe length or pressure changes. This configuration is critical to ensure complete soil humidification.
The close proximity of the drip lines allows the water to reach the plant's entire root system evenly, avoiding dry areas that could affect the growth of the pumpkin. In addition, the soil's porous structure and high drainage capacity make it easier for water to be distributed efficiently, avoiding waterlogging and creating an optimal environment for nutrient absorption.
Peter Holst Olsen's success has sparked his interest in expanding his giant pumpkin project. As he has his sights set on competing internationally, Peter plans to expand his greenhouse and continue to use advanced irrigation solutions. The pursuit of this ambition, supported by cutting-edge technologies such as AZUD's, shows the potential of drip irrigation and sustainable farming practices to achieve outstanding results, even in challenging climatic and geographical conditions.
AZUD will participate in EIMA 2024
AZUD will be present at the new edition of EIMA 2024, to be held from November 6 to 10. The International Exhibition of Machinery for Agriculture and Gardening (EIMA) is one of the agro-industrial sector's most important events worldwide, attracting thousands of visitors and professionals interested in the latest innovations for sustainable agriculture.
Visitors to EIMA 2024 will have the opportunity to learn first-hand about the company's technological solutions, designed to optimize water and nutrients in various agricultural applications, contributing to the development of more profitable and environmentally friendly agriculture.
The AZUD team will be available in hall 22, stand B5, to offer personalized advice to those interested in implementing precision irrigation technologies. Visitors will be able to explore innovative solutions such as subsurface drip irrigation (RGS), advanced filtration systems, and automation tools to efficiently manage water resources. You can book an appointment via the following link.
For more information:
Sistema AZUD, S.A.
Avenida de las Américas P.6/6 - Apdo 147
Polígono Industrial Oeste
30820 Alcantarilla, Murcia (Spain)
Email: [email protected]
www.azud.com