Key Takeaways:
- Grodan launches a patented vermiculite-free solution for high-tech propagation.
- New Funnel M plugs and cucumber blocks deliver strong germination without vermiculite.
- Products enhance cleanliness, reduce maintenance, and improve worker safety.
- Designed for modern sowing machines and seamless grower adoption.
- Early trials confirm consistent plant quality and uniform crop development.
Grodan Develops Industry-First Vermiculite-Free Solution
Grodan, a leading specialist in stone wool growing media, has announced the release of its patented vermiculite-free Funnel M plugs for tomatoes and peppers, alongside a new vermiculite-free block for cucumbers. The development addresses challenges associated with vermiculite use, offering growers a cleaner, safer, and more efficient propagation process without compromising on germination or plant quality.
“Our innovative, industry-first vermiculite-free products are aligned with the growing needs of propagators – and their customers – for a cleaner greenhouse environment and more homogeneous crop, without having to compromise on sowing speed, germination rate and plant quality,” said Joost Haenen, Business Support Propagation, Grodan.
Cleaner and Safer Propagation Environments
For decades, vermiculite was a standard tool for germination, but its granular nature often led to clogging of irrigation systems, contamination of transplanting machines, and slippery greenhouse floors. By eliminating vermiculite, Grodan’s new solutions create a cleaner and safer workplace, while reducing maintenance time and costs.
Growers using the Funnel M plugs and cucumber blocks reported strong seedling uniformity, robust stem stability, and high germination success. Early trials also confirmed improved crop consistency in both the propagation and cultivation stages.
Designed for Seamless Grower Adoption
The Funnel M plugs are compatible with most modern sowing machines, featuring optimized seed holes for easy placement checks. No foil cover is required after sowing, saving both time and materials. In cucumber production, the vermiculite-free block demonstrated strong biomass and stable development in early trials.
“These vermiculite-free solutions are rooted in science and designed to grow. Building on our proven Funnel S solution, which has already gained wide adoption among leading seed companies, the new Funnel M plug and vermiculite-free block open the door for tomato, pepper and cucumber propagators to transition confidently towards cleaner and more sustainable propagation,” added Joost Haenen.
Customer Collaboration and Early Adoption
Grodan emphasized that the new products were developed in close collaboration with customers. Large-scale trials with propagators demonstrated straightforward, low-risk implementation, with many early adopters already switching to the vermiculite-free system.
“Next to the advantages in plant stability and development, we also see the benefit of less pollution – both for us and for our customers,” said Erik Heijs, Cultivation Coordinator at Beekenkamp.
Grodan
Grodan, part of the ROCKWOOL Group, provides stone wool substrate solutions designed for professional horticulture. The company supports vegetable and flower cultivation through its Precision Growing principles, offering tools and advisory services alongside its growing media.
Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Roermond, Netherlands, Grodan is active in over 60 countries. The company emphasizes sustainability from production to end-of-life recycling of its products.
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