WO2012050449A1 - Ensemble de culture et procédé pour faire croître des cultures - Google Patents

Ensemble de culture et procédé pour faire croître des cultures Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012050449A1
WO2012050449A1 PCT/NL2011/050701 NL2011050701W WO2012050449A1 WO 2012050449 A1 WO2012050449 A1 WO 2012050449A1 NL 2011050701 W NL2011050701 W NL 2011050701W WO 2012050449 A1 WO2012050449 A1 WO 2012050449A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
crops
holder
cultivation
floating bodies
floating
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NL2011/050701
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Johannes Petrus Maria Botman
Original Assignee
Holding B.V.Jalmaja
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from NL2006230A external-priority patent/NL2006230C2/nl
Application filed by Holding B.V.Jalmaja filed Critical Holding B.V.Jalmaja
Publication of WO2012050449A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012050449A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
    • A01G31/00—Soilless cultivation, e.g. hydroponics
    • A01G31/02—Special apparatus therefor
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02P—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE PRODUCTION OR PROCESSING OF GOODS
    • Y02P60/00—Technologies relating to agriculture, livestock or agroalimentary industries
    • Y02P60/20—Reduction of greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions in agriculture, e.g. CO2
    • Y02P60/21—Dinitrogen oxide [N2O], e.g. using aquaponics, hydroponics or efficiency measures

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a cultivation assembly and a method for growing crops, in particular vegetables.
  • Crops are often grown in locations other than the open field.
  • a cultivation assembly which uses so-called ebb and flood trays, in which plants are grown in a common growth substrate.
  • a method for growing plants and a floating carrier are, for example, shown in international publication WO2010/093248.
  • the floating carriers are dimensionally stable and made of polystyrene. Summary of the invention
  • the invention provides a cultivation assembly for growing crops according to Claim 1.
  • the buoyancy is adjustable, it can be modified, for example, during growth. This makes it possible to adjust the buoyancy to the increasing weight of the plant. As a result, the distance between growth substrate and water, for example, can be adjusted.
  • Embodiments are described in the dependent claims. It is mainly the use of film and tubes as floating bodies which makes the assembly inexpensive and easy to use, for example, during planting and harvesting. In addition, it is readily possible to drain off precipitation, for example.
  • the carrier is a plastic film, for example, polyethylene film which is known per se (“agricultural film”) or for multiple use, for example, a PVC film, provided with holes.
  • the crops may in this case comprise a plug-shaped growth substrate which is adapted to fit into the holes in a clamping manner.
  • a film may be attached to the floating bodies, such as, for example, the film. This attachment may be provided along the entire length, for example, by means of an adhesive strip, or at spots. Alternatively, the film rests on the floating bodies and is held securely at the edges of the reservoirs.
  • the plants may also be held on strips of fibre material, such as, for example, strips, a distance apart, preferably in rows.
  • a plastic net may rest on or be attached to the floating bodies. The strips rest on or are attached to these nets.
  • the floating bodies comprise mutually parallel inflatable tubes, in an embodiment film tubes. Across these tubes, for example, the plastic net is arranged. The strips are arranged parallel to the tubes and extend between the tubes.
  • the inflatable floating body is, for example, approximately at least 1 metre wide and at least 10 metres long.
  • pressure sensors or pressure readers may be operatively connected to a tube, and the tubes may be connected to a pressure device and a control device for checking and controlling the pressure in each tube in order to maintain the correct distance between crop and water.
  • An embodiment of the cultivation assembly has floating bodies which extend in the longitudinal direction, preferably parallel to each other.
  • these are tubes.
  • the floating bodies in the completely inflated state, have a buoyancy of approximately 0.5- 30 kg per running metre of crop, depending on the crop.
  • the tubes will have a cross-sectional area of 5-300 cm . In an embodiment for smaller crops, this will be approximately 10-100 cm 2 . Specifically, a value of 10-40 cm 2 can be chosen
  • the floating bodies are at least 3 cm thick in the inflated state.
  • the floating bodies comprise an inlet valve for air.
  • the holes or slots have a diameter of 1-15 cm.
  • the invention furthermore provides a cultivation assembly for growing crops, comprising a collection of trays, each provided with a supply and discharge of water provided with nutrients and further additives for growing crops, and a watertight bottom, a collection of growth substrates with a volume of 1-500 cc, a collection of holders provided with holder parts for holding a plurality of the growth substrates at a first, a second and a third mutual distance and with support parts for keeping the growth substrates at a set working height above water in the trays.
  • the invention furthermore relates to a method for growing plants, in particular vegetables, wherein a set of growth substrates are each provided with substantially one plant seed or germ, the set of growth substrates are placed at a first distance apart at a distance from the bottom of a tray, the tray is regularly filled with a layer of water at such a level that the set of growth substrates are regularly moistened, after a first growth period, the growth substrates are placed a second distance apart which is greater than the first distance apart and at a distance from the bottom of the tray, after a second growth period, the growth substrates are placed a third distance apart which is greater than the second mutual distance and at a distance from the bottom of the tray.
  • the growth substrates are kept above the bottom of the trays, roots are formed on the crops which extend from the growth substrates in the regularly supplied water. It has been found that this makes it possible to achieve an improved and more rapid growth.
  • the mutual distance can in each case be optimized, it is possible to make more efficient use of an available surface area.
  • the cultivated crops can be handled more readily, for example, by means of an automated processing facility. It is also possible to offer the crops together with the growth substrate and roots for sale to customers in a shop. This results in a visibly fresh product being offered, which may possibly also be longer lasting.
  • ebb and flood trays for the cultivation assembly which are known to the person skilled in the art.
  • Such ebb and flood trays are in widespread use in greenhouse cultivation in order to grow various crops.
  • the trays may be a series of basins or growing ponds. This would make it possible to use the method and device outside of greenhouses as well.
  • the method has also been found to be usable for Chinese vegetables, including specifically pak choi.
  • the method has also produced good results for types of lettuce, including specifically Lollo Biondo, Lollo Rosso, iceberg, butter lettuce, frisee lettuce.
  • cut flower, including specifically Lisianthus or chrysanthemums can be cultivated using the method or the assembly. These plants have proved to be very suitable for cultivation using the cultivation assembly according to the invention.
  • the method or the assembly is suitable, for example, for the propagation, such as the vegetative propagation, of bulbous plants such as the daffodil, hyacinth or tulip. This makes it possible to transfer cultivation of the plants from the open field, thus offering significant environmental advantages.
  • the inflatable floating bodies such as the inflatable tubes
  • the bulbs can be arranged thereon and subsequently a covering layer can be arranged over the bulbous plants.
  • This covering layer is permeable to stems and non-transparent, preferably non-translucent.
  • An example thereof is a coconut matting, optionally attached to a top net so that it can be more readily removed during harvest.
  • inflatable non-transparent tubes with, if desired, a net on top.
  • the covering tubes preferably run parallel to the floating bodies.
  • the cultivation assembly has been found to be extremely efficient when growing lettuce in the greenhouse or outside.
  • a first object is to make growing in the open field possible. This prevents harmful substances from being released into the environment.
  • fewer chemical agents are required and, furthermore, the earth or soil does not have to be treated between crops.
  • the cultivation assembly and the method are used in covered arrangements, such as, for example, in the greenhouses, for example, in cultivation under glass.
  • a growth substrate with a volume up to approximately 500 cc could be used.
  • the lower limit is determined in a more practical way by the minimum size of a growth substrate on which a plant can still grow. This lower limit is approximately 1 cc. In the case of some plants, raising various plants was still possible at a volume of 1-10 cc. A volume of approximately 25-125 cc was found to be sufficient for, for example, the cultivation of Lisianthus, lettuce, cabbage and Chinese vegetables, such as pak choi and bok choy. For some fruit vegetables, a volume up to 500 cc is acceptable.
  • the growth substrates are self-supporting and, for example, comprise a fibre material, such as, for example, mineral wool, glass wool, or organic fibre material, such as coconut fibre.
  • the growth substrates may be growing plugs such as a glue plug.
  • the support parts of the holders are provided with pin parts onto which the growth substrates can be pinned.
  • the support parts of the holders are provided with the pin parts, and wherein in each case at least two pin parts are a distance apart in order together to hold one growth substrate.
  • each case at least two pin parts are a distance apart in order together to hold one growth substrate, and wherein the pin parts are arranged in a regular pattern in order to hold growth substrates, and to hold the growth substrates at the first, second and third mutual distance.
  • each growth substrate is provided with one germ of the plant to be cultivated.
  • a growth substrate may also be provided with a small plant.
  • each growth substrate is furthermore provided with a substrate holder having a substantially open bottom to allow the roots of a plant to be cultivated through. This makes it possible to move the growth substrates even more readily by means of an automated system.
  • the substrate holder comprises a ring around a growth substrate.
  • the substrate holder comprises a securing part for cooperating with the holder parts in order to secure the growth substrates on the holder.
  • the substrate holder furthermore comprises a positioning part which cooperates with a gripper part of a repotting device for moving the growth substrates from the first to the second and from the second to the third mutual distance.
  • the support parts of the holder are configured to hold the growth substrates at a height of approximately 1 - 10 cm above the bottom of the trays. In a specific embodiment thereof, the support parts of the holder are configured to hold the growth substrates at a height of approximately 2 - 6 cm above the bottom of the trays.
  • the growth substrate is moistened regularly, so that a secure supply of water and nutrients is ensured.
  • the growth substrates will also be clear from the water for some time, resulting in good root development. These roots may eventually reach a permanent layer of water.
  • the invention furthermore relates to a floating body for growing crops, such as ornamental plants, flowers or vegetables, comprising an inflatable, substantially panel- shaped floating body comprising at least two mutually connected plastic film layers and having a series of continuous holes or slots transversely to the plane of the substantially panel-shaped floating body, wherein the inflatable floating body is at least 1 metre wide, at least 10 metres long, at least 3 cm thick in the inflated state, comprises an inlet valve for air, and comprises holes or slots having a diameter of 1-15 cm.
  • the invention furthermore relates to a cultivation assembly for growing crops, such as ornamental plants, flowers or vegetables, comprising:
  • a holder comprises a substantially panel-shaped, inflatable floating body having at least two mutually connected plastic film layers and comprising a series of continuous holes transversely to the plane of the substantially panel- shaped floating body, wherein the inflatable floating body is at least 1 metre wide, at least 2 metres long, at least 1 cm thick in the inflated state, and comprises an inlet opening for air.
  • Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a cultivation assembly according to the invention with growth substrates at a first mutual distance, with the growth substrates at the second mutual distance and with the growth substrates at the third mutual distance;
  • Fig. 2 shows a detail view from the side of a growth substrate in a substrate holder in a holder
  • Fig. 3 shows a detail view of an alternative substrate holder
  • Fig. 4 shows a floating body for holding substrate holders in perspective view
  • Fig. 5 shows a substrate holder in perspective view
  • Fig. 6 shows a cross section of an assembly in operation
  • Fig. 7 shows an alternative embodiment of a floating body
  • Fig. 8 shows a partial cross section of the floating body from Fig. 7 in a not fully inflated state
  • Fig. 9 shows the cross section from Fig. 8, now in the inflated state
  • Fig. 0 shows an embodiment of a cultivation assembly provided with inflatable floating bodies
  • Fig. 1 1 shows the embodiment from Fig. 10, furthermore provided with plant- supporting means
  • Fig. 12 shows a further embodiment of an assembly according to the invention
  • Fig. 13 shows a still further embodiment of an assembly according to the present invention
  • Figs. 14a and 14b show a side and top view of an embodiment of a substrate holder for use in a cultivation assembly
  • Fig. 15 shows a diagrammatic representation of a control system which can be used with the embodiments of the cultivation assembly.
  • Fig. 1 shows an overview of a cultivation assembly.
  • This cultivation assembly is provided with a number of trays (basins, reservoirs) 1, also referred to as ebb and flood trays. These trays have a bottom 2 with a continuous edge 3. Water can be added regularly to the trays.
  • DFT Deep Flow Technique'
  • Holders 4 are placed in the trays 1.
  • the trays 1 will be provided with holders 4 abutting one another and covering virtually the entire bottom 2.
  • the holders 4 in Fig. 1 are provided with holder parts 5.
  • These holder parts 5 are configured to hold growth substrates.
  • growth substrates 6 are situated at three mutual distances. On the left-hand side in the figure, the growth substrates 6 are placed at the smallest mutual distance, in the centre at the greatest mutual distance, and on the right- hand side at an intermediate mutual distance.
  • the distances and layout in this figure are only for illustrative purposes. In general, the layout will be such that in each case ⁇
  • interposed growth substrates can simply be removed by means of a machine, for example by removing a complete row or column from a holder 4.
  • the holder 4 which is illustrated in this Fig. 1 bears a strong resemblance to a tray which is used in conventional cultivation methods.
  • the bottom side of the holder parts 5 is virtually completely open.
  • roots are not damaged during rearranging which entails removal of the growth substrates.
  • the growth substrates are kept at a selected height.
  • Fig. 2 shows a cross section through a tray 1 provided with a partly illustrated alternative holder 4. In this case, only one holder part 5 is shown. This holder part 5 will be connected to several similar holder parts 5 and thus form a holder 4.
  • tray 1 is provided with an inlet 12 and an outlet 13 for water, which will usually contain nutrients and other additives which are customary in crop cultivation using these trays 1.
  • the height 1 1 is indicated in tray 1, being the set working height at which the growth substrates 6 are kept.
  • the illustrated growth substrate 6 is provided with one specimen of a crop 7 to be cultivated.
  • a growth substrate 6 is used in this case which is provided with a substrate holder 8.
  • the substrate holder 8 has a surrounding wall and a virtually open bottom 9 through which roots 10 of crop 7 can extend.
  • the holder part 5 is configured to keep the substrate holder 8 in position, but at the same time keep the substrate holder at the working height 11.
  • holder part 5 thus fulfils both functions, and therefore it also forms a support part by means of lugs 16.
  • the holder part 5 may be continuous, but here, pin parts are illustrated.
  • the holder parts 5 will often comprise three or four of the elements of which two are illustrated here.
  • a growth substrate may also be stuck freely on pins (not shown).
  • Fig. 2 shows the water level at ebb 14 and at flood 15.
  • the support parts 16 keep the growth substrate 6 at a working height 11 in such a manner that the growth substrate 6 itself becomes wet during a flood 15.
  • the growth substrate will be out of the water.
  • the water level is higher than the working height 11.
  • the water level is lower than the working height 11.
  • Fig. 3 shows an alternative substrate holder 8. This substrate holder 8 has an open bottom 9. At the bottom of the continuous wall 18, an edge 19 is formed as a result of which a growth substrate can be retained.
  • this substrate holder has a flanged edge 16, and a further run-in edge 17.
  • a robot which moves the growth substrates in order to adjust the mutual distance to the growth stage of the crops, has a point of engagement on the substrate holder 8.
  • the growth substrates are formed by a coherent substrate material, often a fibre material of inorganic origin, such as mineral wool or glass wool. Such materials are often used.
  • a coherent substrate material often a fibre material of inorganic origin, such as mineral wool or glass wool.
  • Such materials are often used.
  • small cubes or sticks are provided with one germ.
  • These growth substrates are stuck on pin parts.
  • supports are provided on the pin parts or on the holders in order to support the growth substrates at the correct height, i.e. the working height. Ofte , three or four pin parts will hold and support one growth substrate.
  • These pin parts are arranged at a substrate distance, that is to say within a peripheral distance of a growth substrate.
  • the holders can then be provided with a regular pattern of pin parts. In this case, all pin parts may be arranged at a mutual substrate distance.
  • the growth substrates may be made of an organic fibre material, such as coconut fibre or another prior-art fibre material which has a coherence which is sufficient for it to be stuck on pin parts and to be moved and stuck on pin parts by a robot several times.
  • organic fibre material such as coconut fibre or another prior-art fibre material which has a coherence which is sufficient for it to be stuck on pin parts and to be moved and stuck on pin parts by a robot several times.
  • the cultivation assembly will be used in the following manner.
  • Growth substrates are each provided with a germ or seed. Usually, this will be carried out in an automated manner. Thus, panels of mutually connected growth substrates may be supplied and provided with one germ for each growth substrate. Thereafter, the growth substrates may be separated and placed on the holder parts of the holders. The holders are then placed in the trays.
  • substrate holders are provided with a growth substrate and with a germ.
  • the substrate holders with growth substrates are then placed in the holder parts of the holders. These operations may also be automated.
  • the mutual distance between the growth substrates can be increased.
  • growth substrates if desired in the substrate holders, can be removed from the holders and placed in empty holders at their new distance. In this case, for example, every other row and column may be removed in each case.
  • this step can be repeated again.
  • plants would be removed from a holder in every other row and column and be placed in other holders.
  • ien growth substrates would remain in a holder.
  • Fig. 4 shows an alternative embodiment for a cultivation assembly.
  • the above-described ebb and flood trays 1 are used again.
  • floating bodies 20, here in the form of floating panels 20 have been placed in the ebb and flood trays as holders.
  • An additional advantage of the floating panels is that they have an insulating effect. Thus, relatively hot or relatively cold water may be used without much loss of energy.
  • the panels 20 are provided with continuous holes 21. In this case, these continuous holes are at a mutual distance or centre-to-centre distance which corresponds to the abovementioned first mutual distance.
  • the holes have a first diameter D.
  • the diameter of the holes in a floating body 20 will be approximately 4-7 cm.
  • the holes may be approximately 5-6 cm.
  • Fig. 4 shows the floating bodies as holders for substrate holders. In this embodiment, the holes form the holder parts.
  • a floating body is made of a plastic foam.
  • a closed-cell foam is preferred.
  • an example of a suitable material is polyethylene foam or polypropylene foam.
  • the crop side of the floating bodies 20 is white.
  • the foam is provided with one or more surface layers.
  • the thickness of the panels will be adapted to the size and weight of the crops to be cultivated. For lettuce plants or similar crops, for example, the panels may be 2-10 cm thick. In order to make good and rapid root development possible, a thickness of 2-5 cm may be chosen.
  • Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of substrate holders 30 for a growth substrate for use in the cultivation assembly from Figs. 4 and 5.
  • the substrate holder 30 comprises a disc of flexible material.
  • the disc has a round
  • the periphery of the disc may also have a different shape.
  • the disc may, for example, also be square.
  • a round disc is preferred.
  • the diameter of the disc is greater than the diameter D of the holes in the panels 20.
  • the purpose thereof is for the discs to virtually completely cover the holes in order to limit or preferably prevent access to the roots of a crop.
  • a moist climate will develop in the holes of the panels 20, which has proved to be advantageous for the root system and root formation.
  • such a substrate holder will have a diameter of 6-15 cm.
  • the disc has a diameter of approximately 6-8 cm.
  • the substrate holders 30 are provided with a continuous hole 31 for holding a coherent substrate. Radial incisions 32 have been provided along the periphery of the substrate holder 30, so that a growth substrate 6 can be clamped. In addition, the end of the incisions 32 is provided with holes 33 in order to enable secure clamping, inter alia in order to prevent further tearing.
  • a hole 31 has a diameter of approximately 1-4 cm. For lettuce plants, a hole 31 of 15-20 mm may be chosen.
  • Fig. 6 shows an assembly of a floating body 20 with a substrate holder 30 in partial cross section.
  • the substrate holder 30 virtually closes off the hole 21, thus trapping moist air in the hole 21 and preventing the roots 10 of crop 7 from drying out.
  • the substrate holder 30 makes it possible to carry out placement and processing by machine.
  • substrate holder 30 is made of a flexible material.
  • Neoprene is an example of a suitable material. In order to cover the hole 31 of the floating body 20 well, this material will have a thickness of approximately 1-3 cm. This material may be fibre-reinforced in order to further increase its durability, for example by means of a fabric layer.
  • the lettuce When cultivating, for example, types of lettuce, the lettuce may be cut by, for example, disc-shaped blades in the horizontal plane, so that the lettuce can be packaged once it has been rinsed with ice water. In an embodiment, it is possible to opt for a number of blades one above the other, so that a crop, such as lettuce, can be cut into relatively small parts. After cutting, the remainder of the growth substrate 6 can be removed from the substrate holder and the substrate holder 30 may be processed for recycling. Due to the ease of handling of the substrate holders 30, this entire process may be carried out by robots.
  • Fig. 7 shows a longitudinal section of an alternative embodiment of a floating body for holding crops to be cultivated.
  • the function of the floating body is to hold the crops to be cultivated, in particular in a manner which makes it possible for the crops to take up water and nutrients from the water on which a floating body floats.
  • the floating body 20 is in this case an inflatable body.
  • the floating body is composed of at least two plastic film layers 40 and 41 which are attached to one another and which form an air chamber in between them
  • the floating body is provided with a series of holes 21 for holding, for example, the popular conical pots or soil blocks or paper plugs, but it is also possible to hold free substrates, as is illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9.
  • the holes are partly or completely conical, as a result of which the crops can be clamped, in pots, holders or in free-standing substrates by the pressure of inflating the floating body, as is illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9.
  • the inflatable floating body can readily be produced, for example, from two layers of plastic film 40, 41 which are welded together.
  • the film layers may be welded or glued together in those locations intended for the crops and an opening may be produced in the manner as illustrated in the figure.
  • the side which is in contact with the water may be made of black film, and the opposite side of a white film. No further description is given here of the way in which the layers are attached to one another, but this is assumed to be common knowledge for an expert in that field.
  • the floating body is suitable for growing the aforementioned crops, but also for growing, for example, taller crops, such as cauliflower and leeks on water. For such crops, additional support at a distance from the roots may be necessary.
  • a further inflatable body which is impermeable to light may be used substantially parallel to the floating body 20 and at a distance therefrom. It has been found that, for example, leeks can be clamped into the holes even without a substrate.
  • the further inflatable body which is at a distance from the floating body, supports the growing leeks and prevents light from reaching the stalks. It is conceivable in this case, to inflate the support further in order to make it thicker.
  • pressure may be released in order to create space between the supporting body and the leek stalk.
  • the supporting body can be moved slightly upwards along the supporting body during growth.
  • the supporting body may move along upwards during growth, since it is only lightly clamped around the stalk, as a result of which the distance between the supporting body and floating body increases.
  • a similar construction, in which lightproofing is of very small, if any importance is, for example, the cultivation of lilies (in greenhouses) or the cultivation of bulbous plants.
  • the bulbs may rest on the openings or, alternatively, open slots.
  • An inflatable supporting body may be arranged at a distance from the floating body. The stem of the bulbous plant grows through a hole or slot in the supporting body.
  • adventitious roots will develop between the floating body and the supporting body, and said adventitious roots will grow downwards through the holes or slots towards the water underneath the floating body.
  • the distance between the floating body and the supporting body is then approximately 0-20 cm.
  • the supporting body may be similar or identical to the floating body.
  • the colour (black, white, transparent) of the various layers may be modified.
  • the bottom side of the supporting body and the top side of the floating body may be black.
  • the top side of the supporting body can then be white.
  • the inflatable floating body can be re-used for various cultivation cycles. Thus, it is possible, for example, to release the air or air pressure during the harvesting, thus making it easy to take the crops out of the holes.
  • the floating body can then, for example, be rolled up in a compact manner to be re-used later.
  • Fig. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a cultivation assembly provided with floating bodies with adjustable buoyancy. When they grow and consequently become heavier, the plants can still be kept afloat due to the adjustable buoyancy. In addition, it makes it possible to modify or adjust the distance of the plant to the growth substrate. This makes it possible, for example, to generate an ebb and flood cycle.
  • Fig. 10 shows a cross section of a part of a cultivation assembly.
  • the part may form a unit of a combination which is to be repeated, and in said embodiment the illustrated part is therefore repeated in juxtaposition. Alternatively, the next unit on either side is again a plant.
  • a growth substrate 6 which is provided with a crop 7 is clamped in a hole 52 in a film 51.
  • the film 51 is a simple agricultural film (often a multilayered polyethylene or polypropylene film) with a black bottom side (root side) and a white top side (plant side).
  • tubes 50 of film are attached to the plant side of the film 51. These tubes 50 may be as long as 100 metres.
  • the tubes 50 may be provided with connections to provide the tubes 50 with air. By providing the tubes 50 with more or less air, both the buoyancy and the distance between the film 51 and the water (hatched) can be adjusted.
  • the cross-sectional area of the tubes 50 will usually be 5-300 cm 2 , so that the correct maximum buoyancy for a plant can be achieved.
  • the tubes of film 50 may be made of a thin film which can be disposed of or recycled after use. If desired, the film 51 with holes 52 may also be re-used after cultivation or, for example, recycled. In an embodiment, the unit from Fig. 10 is repeated in juxtaposition. The centre-to-centre distance between the pairs of tubes is then approximately 20 - 100 cm. Usually, there is a space of approximately 20-50 cm between adjacent tubes of pairs. In practice, rainwater will usually collect in this area. In order to prevent the buoyancy from becoming excessively reduced after a shower, the intermediate film may be provided with discharge means (drainage means) at regular longitudinal distances for discharging rainwater (precipitation).
  • discharge means discharge means
  • this (clean) rainwater is kept separate from the water in the reservoir, for example, in order to be able to use it for cultivation. It is then collected in separate reservoirs for subsequent use.
  • the intermediate area of the film 51 is provided with holes at regular intervals, which are provided with drains for rainwater.
  • the film 51 is provided with drains at the ends of the intermediate areas.
  • the tubes 50 are placed at a distance apart which is, in some cases, 20 cm. In many cases, however, the tubes abut one another in the inflated state. It has been found that the roots will find a way to reach the water, particularly if the pressure in the tubes 50 is limited. In the inflated state as illustrated, the distance may then be 1-5 cm.
  • the cross- sectional area of the floating bodies is adapted to deliver a buoyancy of approximately 1-5 kg per running metre.
  • the cross-sectional area of the floating bodies is, for example, approximately 10-50 cm , in an embodiment approximately 15-40 cm , specifically approximately 20-35 cm 2 .
  • the floating bodies comprise inflatable tubes which extend in the longitudinal direction and are in each case attached to the film in pairs and have a cross-sectional area of approximately 10-50 cm 2 , wherein the holes in the film are provided between the pairs of inflatable tubes and the tubes are attached to the film in such a manner that the pairs of tubes are a distance of approximately 1-5 cm apart in the non- inflated state and of approximately 3-15 cm in the completely inflated state, wherein the mutual centre-to-centre distance between the pairs is approximately 10-100 cm.
  • a film 51 which extends across the basin, it is also possible to opt for, for example, a net over or around the tubes 50.
  • strips are provided between the tubes 50 in which the crops are held in holes.
  • the strips are made of a fibre material in which the crops are initially accommodated as seeds in lines and a distance apart.
  • the crops are, for example, arranged in a line, the lines running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubes 50.
  • the tubes 50 may be connected to the film 51 or net. Film 51 or net is then a means to hold the tubes mutually parallel. It is also conceivable not to connect the film 51 or net. This makes it easy to replace a broken tube 50 or to use larger rubes 50 (or floating bodies).
  • the inflatable floating body may be for single use. Particularly when using inexpensive film layers, this is conceivable. In this case, it is possible, for example, to supply the floating body on a roll.
  • the inflatable floating body can be produced in situ from film webs to form webs which are tens or even hundreds of metres in length.
  • Fig. 11 shows the basic embodiment of Fig. 10 provided with plant-supporting means.
  • the plant- supporting means comprise inflatable bodies 60 which extend between, in this case a row, of crops 7.
  • the crop 7 consists of, for example, leeks.
  • the inflatable bodies 60 in this case tubes of film, the crops are supported.
  • the tubes 60 can be coupled to one another.
  • a first solution is to connect the inflatable bodies 60 to a continuous film, such as the bottom layer which holds the growth substrates.
  • said film may be non- transparent and have, for example, a black underside.
  • a solution which requires even less material may be, for example, a net which runs above and below or webs transversely to the tubes.
  • the tubes can also be connected to the bottom film 51, as a result of which the tubes 60 remain in place.
  • a variant on the cultivation assembly of floating bodies consists of tubes which are coupled together. This is explained further with reference to Fig. 12.
  • a pattern of holes or slots is made in a connection 61 between the tubes 50.
  • plants and/or plant parts 62 being seeds, cuttings with or without roots, tuberous plants, bulbous plants and root parts
  • the roots 10 can extend through the holes and slots of the connection 61 to the water.
  • Another conceivable variant is to place plants and/or plant parts 62 (see the above description) on the floats or tubes 50. The roots 7 will then grow along the tube 50 and reach the water via the connection 61.
  • connection 61 may be provided in addition to or instead of the film 51, as described above.
  • a plant support 63 of a net or film with a pattern of holes may be added to the variants, as described above with reference to Fig. 11.
  • the aeration of the nutrient solution in the assembly is improved.
  • a further measure may be added to the embodiments described above with reference to Figs. 1-12 in the form of microperforations in the tubes 50 and/or in the film 51 which connects the tubes 50 with one another.
  • the micro- perforations are provided below the water surface, coupled to the floating bodies (tubes 50). By blowing air into the micro-perforated tubes 50, they will directly deliver oxygen to the nutrient solution. The additional oxygen is very advantageous for absorption of the elements in the nutrient solution required by the plant.
  • a method for harvesting the crop which has been cultivated using an assembly as described above in one of the embodiments, wherein the method comprises cooling the crop to be harvested.
  • the floating body (tube 50) Prior to harvesting, the floating body (tube 50) passes or a plurality of tubes 50 pass through a tunnel where the crop can be brought to the correct temperature.
  • a variant of the cultivation assembly of floating bodies consists of a plant support which floats independently from the cultivation system. This is explained further with reference to Fig. 13.
  • crops 7 are shown again which are cultivated optionally using a substrate 6 or with their roots suspended directly in water.
  • the tubes 50 are present.
  • tubes for plant support 64 are present which float in the water.
  • the tubes for plant support 64 are connected to a construction 63 for plant support which operates independently from the cultivation system, in particular the tubes 50.
  • the construction 63 comprises, for example, a number of upright elements, between which a film 51 (or net, mesh) is stretched, wherein the construction is made, for example, from aluminium, plastic or other (light) materials.
  • the film 51 is provided with holes through which the plants grow and which keep the plants upright.
  • a lightproof film with a pattern of holes is used as the film 51.
  • this embodiment of the cultivation assembly furthermore comprises a floating construction for plant support.
  • the holders 4 are configured as polystyrene extrusion panels. These panels are made of closed cell foam (no polystyrene), are lightweight and strong in terms of structure. As described above with reference to different embodiments, each holder 4 is provided with several continuous holes 21. It is important that the hole 21 is sufficiently large (for example 80 mm) in order to be able to place the plants with root ball into the holder 4 without problems, and to be able to remove the (larger) root ball from the hole 21 as well during harvesting.
  • the holder 4 may be made of a closed cell foam, as a result of which no water can penetrate into the holder (for example foamed plastic with covering parts of non-foamed plastic, such as PVC, PE, PP, PS).
  • the tubes 50 are made of PE tubular film and are very satisfactory. In order to lift the holders 4 out of the water, an overpressure of +/- 4.5 millibar is sufficient, even almost at the end of cultivation (harvest). With slightly heavier crops 7, the required overpressure will also remain limited to, for example, 10- 15 mbar. Tests have shown that the tubular film does not break until a pressure of 700 millibar is reached.
  • the height of the holders 4 above the water level is measured in the reservoirs or trays 2 using a height sensor 71, for example, an ultrasonic sensor.
  • a height sensor 71 for example, an ultrasonic sensor.
  • This arrangement is illustrated diagrammatically in Fig. 15 and comprises a height sensor 71 for determining a height between the holder 4 and a water level in the reservoir 1, and a control unit 70 which is connected to the height sensor 71 and an actuator 72 connected to the floating bodies 50.
  • a control unit 70 which is connected to the height sensor 71 and an actuator 72 connected to the floating bodies 50.
  • the desired distance for example, bottom of holder 4 to the water level
  • the desired distance can be set, for example, to 15 mm. Due to the fact that the required overpressure is low, the set height can be reached quickly, and the set height can be maintained (independent from external factors).
  • Figs. 14a and 14 b show a top view and a side view of a substrate holder 30 according to a further embodiment of the present invention.
  • the substrate holder 30 in the form of a disc (made of, for example, neoprene material or a harder plastic) is constructed in such a manner that a harvesting robot is also able to take the disc 30 and clamp it.
  • the disc 30 is then placed in a clamping belt.
  • the clamping belt can be rotated in every desired position (even, for example, upside down in order to harvest lettuce upside down, in connection with hanging leaves).
  • the disc 30 has an opening 31 with a cross section dl of, for example, 35 mm (sufficient to produce a good root ball).
  • a top edge 34 of the disc 30 has a cross section d3 of, for example, 100 mm, as a result of which it fits readily over the opening in the holder 4 and is held securely. This is improved further by a number of projections 35 on the underside which taper slightly towards the bottom. This makes it easier to place the substrate holder 30 with the crop 7 in an automated manner (self-centring in continuous hole 21).
  • the diameter d2 of the circle around the projections 35 is preferably slightly smaller than the openings 21 in the holder 4, for example, 60mm.
  • an edge may be present, just below the top edge 34, and may, for example, have a diameter which corresponds to the diameter of the continuous holes 21.
  • the discs 30 with the grown plants 7 are picked up by a robot and placed on the end panel 4, for example, in the case of iceberg lettuce 12 pieces per m 2 .
  • iceberg lettuce requires another 25 to 30 days to reach a desired weight of 550 - 600 grams.
  • a harvesting robot picks up an entire row of plants at the disc 30 in one go.
  • the disc 30 is constructed in such a manner that the robot can grab the disc 30 and clamp it. The product is then cut off and the disc 30 is cleaned and re-used.
  • a very efficient cultivation assembly comprising central harvesting, cleaning and planting.
  • a holder 4 (for example, 4000x1200x30 mm) is lifted out of the water completely.
  • the tubes 50 of the cultivation assembly remain in position in the reservoirs 2.
  • the holder 4 is emptied by a harvesting robot.
  • the holder 4 is cleaned, planted again entirely with plants from precultivation, and the holder 4 is placed in position again on top of the tubes 50.
  • a (floating) island which is, for example, 4 metres wide and 50 metres long, is formed by coupling holders 4.
  • the floating islands can be passed through the central harvesting system.

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Cultivation Receptacles Or Flower-Pots, Or Pots For Seedlings (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un ensemble de culture pour faire croître des cultures, comprenant une série de réservoirs (1), chacun pourvu d'une alimentation et une décharge d'eau pourvue de nutriments et d'autres additifs pour faire croitre des cultures (7), et un fond étanche (2). Un support (4) est présent pour soutenir une pluralité de cultures (7) et de composants de support (5 ; 20 ; 50) pour maintenir les cultures (7) dans les réservoirs (1) à une hauteur de travail définie au-dessus de l'eau. Les composants de support (5 ; 20 ; 50) comprennent des corps flottants avec une flottabilité réglable.
PCT/NL2011/050701 2010-10-15 2011-10-14 Ensemble de culture et procédé pour faire croître des cultures WO2012050449A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2005525 2010-10-15
NL2005525 2010-10-15
NL2006230A NL2006230C2 (nl) 2010-10-15 2011-02-17 Teelsamenstel en werkwijze voor het telen van gewassen.
NL2006230 2011-02-17
NL2006716 2011-05-04
NL2006716 2011-05-04

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WO2014077682A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Jalmaja Holding B.V. Système de culture et procédé de culture de plantes sur l'eau
WO2014077684A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Hevorma B.V. Dispositif de croissance pour culture, utilisation d'un tel dispositif et série de dispositifs de croissance
ITMI20131182A1 (it) * 2013-07-15 2015-01-16 Adriano E Damiano S S Procedimento di coltivazione idroponica di indivia scarola, indivia riccia o cicoria pan di zucchero
CN104365462A (zh) * 2014-11-17 2015-02-25 傅珍检 一种水上景观蔬菜种植方法
EP2871934A4 (fr) * 2012-07-11 2016-06-15 Growponics Greenhouse Technology Ltd Usine de serre hydroponique automatisée
WO2017144904A1 (fr) * 2016-02-26 2017-08-31 Phytoponics Limited Récipient de culture hydroponique flexible
WO2018087724A1 (fr) * 2016-11-11 2018-05-17 Hijdra Retail Services B.V. Bulbe de fleur ciré, procédé et dispositif pour cirer un bulbe de fleur
CN109662024A (zh) * 2019-01-26 2019-04-23 吕文杰 一种滑板式立体多层水培装置
EP3491914A1 (fr) * 2017-11-29 2019-06-05 Dirven, Sebastiaan Johannes Hendricus Support de réception de nattes minces avec des unités de récolte y étant enracinées et dispositif et procédé de culture d'une ou plusieurs unités de récolte
WO2020136042A1 (fr) 2018-12-28 2020-07-02 Combagroup Sa Module de culture hors sol
FR3091145A1 (fr) * 2018-12-28 2020-07-03 Combagroup Sa Module de culture hors sol
CN112840889A (zh) * 2020-12-31 2021-05-28 黑龙江省农业科学院耕作栽培研究所 一种水稻非生物胁迫鉴定装置
CN113307378A (zh) * 2021-07-07 2021-08-27 贵州民族大学 一种湿地生态修复人工浮床
US20210400891A1 (en) * 2018-08-02 2021-12-30 Drexel University An Urban In-Home System for Growing Fruits and Vegetables
WO2023073515A1 (fr) * 2021-10-27 2023-05-04 Plantlab Groep B.V. Système de culture pour cultiver des plantes, et contenant et dispositif de culture associés

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WO2000064240A1 (fr) * 1999-04-27 2000-11-02 Sari Tirkkonen Appareil pour la culture de plantes
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Cited By (22)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2871934A4 (fr) * 2012-07-11 2016-06-15 Growponics Greenhouse Technology Ltd Usine de serre hydroponique automatisée
US9848544B2 (en) 2012-07-11 2017-12-26 Growponics Greenhouse Technology Ltd. Automated hydroponic greenhouse factory
US10251350B2 (en) 2012-11-13 2019-04-09 Jalmaja Holding B.V. Growing system and method for growing plants on water
AU2013345540B2 (en) * 2012-11-13 2016-07-07 Dartdijk N.V. Growth device for crop, use of such a device, and a series of growth devices
WO2014077684A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Hevorma B.V. Dispositif de croissance pour culture, utilisation d'un tel dispositif et série de dispositifs de croissance
US10123494B2 (en) 2012-11-13 2018-11-13 Hevorma B.V. Growth device for crop, use of such a device, and a series of growth devices
WO2014077682A1 (fr) * 2012-11-13 2014-05-22 Jalmaja Holding B.V. Système de culture et procédé de culture de plantes sur l'eau
ITMI20131182A1 (it) * 2013-07-15 2015-01-16 Adriano E Damiano S S Procedimento di coltivazione idroponica di indivia scarola, indivia riccia o cicoria pan di zucchero
CN104365462A (zh) * 2014-11-17 2015-02-25 傅珍检 一种水上景观蔬菜种植方法
WO2017144904A1 (fr) * 2016-02-26 2017-08-31 Phytoponics Limited Récipient de culture hydroponique flexible
WO2018087724A1 (fr) * 2016-11-11 2018-05-17 Hijdra Retail Services B.V. Bulbe de fleur ciré, procédé et dispositif pour cirer un bulbe de fleur
EP3491914A1 (fr) * 2017-11-29 2019-06-05 Dirven, Sebastiaan Johannes Hendricus Support de réception de nattes minces avec des unités de récolte y étant enracinées et dispositif et procédé de culture d'une ou plusieurs unités de récolte
US20210400891A1 (en) * 2018-08-02 2021-12-30 Drexel University An Urban In-Home System for Growing Fruits and Vegetables
FR3091145A1 (fr) * 2018-12-28 2020-07-03 Combagroup Sa Module de culture hors sol
FR3091144A1 (fr) * 2018-12-28 2020-07-03 Combagroup Sa Module de culture hors sol
WO2020136042A1 (fr) 2018-12-28 2020-07-02 Combagroup Sa Module de culture hors sol
CN109662024A (zh) * 2019-01-26 2019-04-23 吕文杰 一种滑板式立体多层水培装置
CN112840889A (zh) * 2020-12-31 2021-05-28 黑龙江省农业科学院耕作栽培研究所 一种水稻非生物胁迫鉴定装置
CN112840889B (zh) * 2020-12-31 2023-09-26 黑龙江省农业科学院耕作栽培研究所 一种水稻非生物胁迫鉴定装置
CN113307378A (zh) * 2021-07-07 2021-08-27 贵州民族大学 一种湿地生态修复人工浮床
WO2023073515A1 (fr) * 2021-10-27 2023-05-04 Plantlab Groep B.V. Système de culture pour cultiver des plantes, et contenant et dispositif de culture associés
NL2029529B1 (nl) * 2021-10-27 2023-05-25 Plantlab Groep B V Verpakking voor een plant en teelinrichting

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