Rijk Zwaan, Netherlands-based fruit and vegetable breeding company, has launched a new LED cucumber trial at its High Tech Trial Centre (TCHT), with the aim of improving yield through advanced lighting techniques. The trial, which began on 18 October, will explore the potential of cultivating cucumbers under a controlled lighting environment, using 327 µmol PAR light. This trial follows a successful winter experiment in 2023–2024, where the company achieved a yield of 230 cucumbers per m².
A µmol (micromole) is one millionth of a mole, a unit used to measure the amount of substance.
Marcel van Koppen, Crop Coordinator Cucumber, Rijk Zwaan, outlined the goals of the trial, noting that the plan is to gradually increase the amount of LED lighting over the course of two weeks after planting. The lighting strategy will be complemented by a Ratio Temperature Radiation (RTR) approach, with an initial temperature set at 18°C and adjusted based on light intensity. This strategy is designed to enhance crop performance and potentially increase yield in future trials.
The RTR (radiation temperature ratio) maintains crop balance by keeping a consistent ratio between daily average temperature (which influences assimilate consumption) and daily light integral (which affects assimilate production).
source: Wageningen University and research
Varieties Displayed at Rijk Zwaan’s High Tech Trial Centre
The TCHT showcases a range of cucumber varieties, each selected for different growing systems. In addition to well-known standard varieties such as Skyview RZ and Skylit RZ, the trial also features the new variety 24-HW338 RZ. Rijk Zwaan is also testing several experimental varieties, including 24-HW348 RZ, which boasts strong resistance to Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) and Powdery Mildew. Other varieties featured include successful midi cucumber options like Mewa RZ and Svyatogor RZ, as well as mini cucumber varieties such as Bonwell RZ. The trial will also display new introductions aimed at high-wire production.
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Trial Duration and Visitor Opportunities
The LED cucumber trial will run until 8 April 2025, after which Rijk Zwaan plans to share the results of the experiment. Visitors to the TCHT will have the opportunity to explore a variety of cucumber types, including midi, mini, snack, gherkin and Asian cucumbers. The centre offers an opportunity to gain insights into how different varieties perform under specific growing conditions, with a focus on data-driven results.
In addition to cucumber trials, Rijk Zwaan’s High Tech Trial Centre also hosts experiments with other vegetables such as tomatoes and sweet peppers. The facility provides valuable information on crop performance, supporting growers in making informed decisions about their own production systems.