News » 22.05.2025 - "Alternative water sources tested for greenhouse growers"

The horticulture sector faces significant challenges due to increasing droughts and rising water demand. The OptiWAIE project explores how alternative water sources can support sustainable water management in greenhouses. Recently, Proeftuinnieuws published an article on research into using these alternative water sources in greenhouse cultivation.

The OptiWAIE project has analyzed various water sources for quality and suitability for use in greenhouse horticulture:

CHP condensate water: Although condensate water contains few nutrients, it does contain metals and mineral oils such as iron, chromium, and nickel. Therefore, it is recommended to filter condensate water with a series of filters (prefilter, activated carbon filter, and ion exchange resin) to remove these contaminants.
Backwash water from filters: This water often contains useful mineral nutrients, but attention must be paid to microbial load. It also contains increased organic matter and suspended solids content. Additional purification with band cloth filters or other systems to make the water less turbid is necessary.
Surface water has a neutral pH and low EC value but may contain ballast salts and microorganisms. Desalination techniques may be interesting to apply. Additionally, in summer, capture bans may apply due to blue algae or low water levels.
Process water from the vegetable processing industry: contains many nutrients and ballast salts. Desalination may be necessary in this case. Since process water already contains many nutrients, there is less margin to add mineral fertilizers to complete the nutrient recipe. Therefore, this source is best mixed in lower quantities in cultivation.

 

Source:www.floraldaily.com

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