For decades, Levoplant has trusted BOL for its substrates
We have to go back several decades to the moment when the first truckload of substrate for Cordyline australis was delivered to Levoplant by BOL specialist in substraten.
Between then and now, many developments have taken place. The substrate has been adjusted several times following extensive consultation, all aimed at achieving optimal growth.
In recent years, the demand for peat-free substrates has increased, and this has now been anticipated as well. Because part of the Cordyline australis production is destined for the UK market, peat-free substrates have been tested for the past three years.
Several factors need to be taken into account. Peat-free mixes naturally have a smaller water and nutrient buffer. In addition, Cordyline cultivation takes a relatively long time. Young organic materials partially decompose over time, which may eventually cause the plant to become unstable in the pot. Naturally, consideration must also be given to the existing cultivation floors, irrigation methods and fertilisation strategy.
The initial results were instructive: plants remained somewhat smaller and lighter in colour due to a rising pH level and an unfavourable balance of nutrients.
After making adjustments, the second year already showed improved results, with stronger Cordylines grown on a fully peat-free substrate.
This year, Levoplant has taken things a step further: more than 100,000 plants are now being grown on peat-free substrates.
In addition to the coconut-based substrate, a mix containing other circular raw materials such as bark, wood fibre and compost is also being tested. This step was taken because coconut-based substrates come with relatively high costs.
The first results? They look very promising.
Milco of Levoplant:
“The cooperation with BOL specialist in substraten, is excellent. Our substrate is always delivered loose in bulk. In the busy, fast-paced environment we work in, ordering a new delivery sometimes slips our mind. Fortunately, BOL always manages to deliver the substrate to our ground bunker within a few hours.
BOL also supplies the top-dressing bark, which helps reduce weed and moss pressure. Here too, we continuously work together to improve quality and application.
The peat-free substrate trials are very educational, and step by step we are getting closer to the desired result.”
Bram of BOL specialist in substraten:
“A peat-free substrate sounds great, but growing a high-quality product in it often requires adjustments — from us, but certainly also from the grower.
Fortunately, over recent years we have learned a great deal from substrates with less peat and a higher proportion of wood fibre, compost, bark or coconut. As a result, we are now far less likely to encounter major surprises.
What I particularly enjoy is that, after several years of intensive collaboration, this approach has been successfully implemented at Levoplant.”
