1. The power of rainwater

Water forms the foundation of operations at Kwekerij de Zuidplas. Without water, there is no growth and no production of the gerberas.

Rainwater plays a central role in this, as it is a stable and relatively clean source. Unlike tap water, which often contains lime and can cause scale, or ditch water, which can vary significantly in composition, rainwater offers consistent quality. This makes it well-suited for accurately controlling acidity and nutrient balance at a later stage.

At Kwekerij de Zuidplas, rainwater has been used as the primary water source for generations. Rainwater is not only sustainable but also efficient: it is free, locally available, and helps to reduce peak loads on the water system. With a collection capacity of approximately 5,900 cubic meters, a large portion of the available rainwater is utilized. During dry periods, this is supplemented with osmosis water, but the guiding principle remains: first make use of what nature offers by utilizing our basin and the natural underground water well.

Due to climate change, with longer dry periods and more intense showers, the importance of this approach is growing. This calls for smart collection and storage so that water remains available when needed. Nursery De Zuidplas is responding to this by maximizing water collection via the gutters of the greenhouse roof, which drain into the water basin.

When this water basin has reached its maximum capacity, the excess water is transferred to an underground water storage facility, a natural well. This can be drawn from during drier periods. Even during the harvest, for example in harvest carts, reused water is utilized. In this way, water is not only used but optimally utilized within a circular system.