A new approach to water !

Organic, Nature & More grower Frank recently installed six interconnected organic water basins.  He is the first Dutch grower to use such this innovative system to irrigate his greenhouse crops.  Nature & More spoke to him.

What exactly are “organic water basins”
Frank: Basically it is an innovative and natural water cleansing system.  In the different basins numerous natural elements are used to improve the quality of the water including: movement, aeration, sunlight, plants, snails and fish. The pond is split into various compartments or basins and as the water flows from basin to basin it becomes cleaner.  The goal is not to sterilize the water but to achieve clean, “living” water.

Hoe does the system work?
Frank: Every natural element in the the basins has it’s own specific function.  The water plants for example take up the phosphate and nitrate. The steps between the basins (where the water is very shallow) ensure that the sunlight tackles UV sensitive bacteria. The snails feed on the algae and the fish keep the water insect population under control. All these elements work together in a natural balance while improving the quality of the water.

Wat makes the system so special ?
Frank: It is the only water cleansing system that works along the basis of “upgrading the water” as opposed to sterilizing it.  It is an ideal fit with the manner we grow our organic tomatoes and peppers.

How did you find out about this system?
Frank: A few years ago, I came into contact with Rene Jochems (of the company Groeibalans) and he told me about the system and how it works in tree nurseries.  It sounded simple and logical and so when I started building my new greenhouse I incorporated  plans to instal a similar system here in Tinte.

Do you find it strange that you are the first greenhouse grower to instal such a system ?
Frank: Somebody has to be the first and I really do not know why others have not picked this up earlier. Perhaps organic growers such as myself are more focussed on achieving a “natural balance and working with nature.