As a cultivation expert in KUBO's Blue Lab, I am at the centre of innovation in greenhouse horticulture. I am responsible for cultivation in the experimental greenhouse, where we test and refine the latest techniques. With my background in greenhouse horticulture and a passion for cultivation, I have found the ideal place at KUBO to combine my love for plants and technology.
The love of greenhouses began early
My love for greenhouse farming started at an early age. My first job was in a tomato greenhouse through a friend from my football team. Since then, it hasn't let go of me. After studying Horticulture Business Management, I knew for sure: I want to learn everything about cultivation and how to optimise it.
The chance of a lifetime
Through a colleague, I came into contact with KUBO, where I had the unique opportunity to manage cultivation in the Blue Lab. In most companies, the role of cultivation manager often falls to the owner. At KUBO, I was given the chance to go fully in-depth with cultivation. That gives me an enormous amount of energy.
Climate, data and grower relations
My work revolves around setting the greenhouse climate in the best possible way. My job is simple: how do we get more production with less input? We do that using sensors, data analysis and smart techniques. But what makes my work really interesting is the variety. From experimenting with crops in the greenhouse to advising customers worldwide, like in Kazakhstan. Working together with growers remains a great challenge: do they apply my advice? Do they believe the analyses?
Looking to the future
After four years of testing in the Blue Lab, we have achieved amazing results. We have learned how to still achieve optimal growth with less energy, and how to improve processes such as dehumidification and irrigation scheduling. There are still many opportunities for the future. Together with scientists, we want to develop and test new cultivation methods with crops such as strawberries and medicinal cannabis. Experimenting with organic cultivation is also high on my wish list. It feels great to be continuously learning and contributing to the future of greenhouse horticulture at KUBO.
At KUBO, I work in a team that breathes innovation. My work in the Blue Lab shows that technology, cultivation and passion combine to produce impressive results - and always leave room for curiosity and growth.
