PPP project Healthy bulb, healthy soil‍

As an innovative technical company in the improvement of bulb preservation, Agrozone was asked to participate in the PPP project "Healthy Bulb, Healthy Soil" together with several partners from the bulb sector. This project focuses on improving detection and control of Fusarium in various bulb crops and soil.

Fusarium, or "acid," is one of the main culprits in crop and quality losses in flower bulbs. The fungus is particularly persistent and remains in the soil and bulb for long periods of time. Without additional measures, this disease pressure does not diminish. Fusarium consists of several spores and groups, depending on the crop. The research is being conducted under the direction of Wageningen University & Research(WUR) and will take about 4 years.

The focus of this study will be on:

• Detection methods to quantitatively check plots and plant materials for the presence of Fusarium pathogens of different bulbous plants
• Improved storage capabilities and methods for bulb treatments and disinfections of batches
• Knowledge of pathogen fluctuations in soil, rotations, weeds to reduce disease pressure and improve yields and quality
• Reducing the use of bulb disinfectants before bulbs are planted

Agrozone's contribution in this project focuses on the control of Fusarium during bulb storage by applying ozone. The first tests are planned in the fall of 2025.

Collaboration Vertify

During the August - November 2024 storage season, successful field tests aimed at reducing and controlling Ethylene in bulb storage cells were conducted by Agrozone in cooperation with Vertify. Ethylene concentrations in these tests were kept below the damage threshold of 100 ppb by oxidation with ozone. In the process, the ventilation of the cell could be greatly reduced to 5% of the normal amount, resulting in substantial energy savings. Subsequent greenhouse and field plant trials showed good results, at least comparable to the reference (regular ventilation).

Focus on tulip gall mite in bulb storage

Next storage season (fall 2025), in cooperation with Vertify, we will pay attention to control of tulip gall mite in bulb storage. To this end, we are conducting a number of studies in which the optimal ozone concentration for control of the gall mite can be determined during the storage season. We are taking into account the daily practice of bulb storage, where access to the cells remains possible.

We will keep you informed!