A DECADE OF RESEARCH ON ECOLOGICALLY SOUND SUBSTRATES

Both the PUR-substrate, which can be re-used for 10 to 15 years, and the compostable, one-year wood fibre substrate meet the present ecological requirements of substrate culture.
For every type of substrate that can be used for more than one year the change of culture is rather laborious, but here the PURmats guarantee that this can take place without any loss, and they are extremely easy to handle.
The superficial roots can, for instance, even be brushed away mechanically, and the mats can be pressed dry, which facilitates the passage of steam, so that sterilization is made more efficient.
After being used, the oneyear wood fibre mats will easily be further composted, resulting in an organic mass that can be readily mixed with peat.
The growing experiences of research and growers were positive, which, as a matter of fact, resulted in the PUR-acreage increasing every year, while the fir fibre substrate has already earned an established place in the world of soilless culture as well.

In short, both substrate types meet the economic, ecological and ergonomic standards of modern glasshouse horticulture.

International Seminar on Soilless Culture Technology Protected Crops Mild Winter Climates

F. Benoit, N. Ceustermans

https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.1995.408.2