Protected crops

Soil for protected crops

How to use our soils with protected crops?

Crops in a confined environment such as a greenhouse have particular aspects as a result of the unique climatic conditions in which they’re grown. High levels of humidity, uncontrolled thermal fluctuations and high crop density require expert knowledge and preparation.

The use of special crop substrates that meet all the particular requirements is essential. Agricola 2000 produces substrates designed for especially for these conditions, including:

1. Substrate 1 Sowing. For seedling and small containers. It is designed especially for seeding in containers or packs. The addition of a volcanic sand mix along with a 0-5 mm blended blond peat guarantees drainage and oxygenation, which are fundamental in such a tight environment. Avoids root and collar rot.

2. Substrate 2 Annual Plants are used for transplants and potted plants up to 17cm in diameter. The 3-8mm pumice combined with 0-40mm blond peat has a similar function to that of Perlite. Unlike Perlite, pumice has an internal microporousity that allows it to retain a water reservoir, while at the same time favouring better root oxygenation.

3. Substrate 3 Perennial Plants is for vessels over 17cm in diameter. Blond peat and pumice with a greater grain size than those used in Substrate 2 increase root drainage and air circulation. The presence of 6-14mm pumice maintains these two important features over time, limiting the onset of fungal diseases.

The acidity or PH of the various substrates is designed for the type of crop. The same is true for the supply of NPK (potassium phosphorus nitrogen) and microelements (fe-bo-cu-zn-mo-mg-mn)