In the world of horticulture, learning from failures often takes center stage. But what about learning from successes? FoodVentures flipped the narrative after a record-breaking cropping season achieved by head grower Ceyhun Cihan in Kazakhstan. By partnering with SERA Intelligence AG and under the supervision of Mikel Honders, Niels Honders and Dirk Aleven, they analyzed their standout 2022 tomato cycle and uncovered techniques to replicate —and potentially exceeding this success in future seasons.
Christian Anastasiu, Niels Honders, Mikel Honders and Florin Munteanu
A season of success: what went right?
The 2022 season saw a cumulative yield 15% above the target. Weekly harvests consistently exceeded targets from late May to October. To understand the driving factors, SERA conducted a comprehensive analysis of crop performance, light availability, climate strategy, and plant steering.
"Central to the success was a finely tuned balance between plant load and environmental conditions. The greenhouse team excelled in adjusting plant load to match the available radiation, ensuring a consistent flow of assimilates for optimal growth. This dynamic response prevented the pitfalls of overly vegetative or generative steering", they explain.
Modeling the future: key strategies unveiled
SERA's data-driven approach culminated in two customized models that can now be used to replicate this successful year in future seasons.
First up is the Temperature Strategy Model. This model determines the optimal greenhouse temperature based on daily radiation sums and plant density. "By adapting temperature to light levels, the team sustained a balanced crop throughout the season."
Second is the Plant Load Model. This framework links radiation availability to the maximum sustainable fruit load. "The analysis revealed that during the first 16 weeks, the crop invested more energy in fruit production, while peak season energy allocation shifted slightly toward vegetative growth, maintaining overall balance."
With the help of the two models a detailed week-by-week crop plan was made for the next seasons. This plan includes parameters for temperature, plant density, fruit load, and other critical metrics like humidity deficit and irrigation.
Takeaways for the industry
The collaboration between FoodVentures and SERA highlights the transformative potential of data-informed horticulture. "By meticulously analysing what went right, growers can replicate their successes and push the boundaries of yield and profitability. As FoodVentures' Kazakhstan greenhouse demonstrated, a perfect balance between crop needs and environmental factors is the foundation for thriving greenhouse operations."
For growers worldwide, this approach offers a powerful blueprint: leverage data, understand your successes, and implement strategies that align with the natural dynamics of your crop and environment.
FoodVentures and SERA are continuously expanding the use cases they are working on.
For more information:
SERA
Florin Munteanu
Co-founder & CRO
florin@SERA.ag
+40722674911
www.SERA.ag
LinkedIN SERA