Martin van der Gaag - Tomaten in de Polder - Tomatoes - Oxin Growers - Luttelgeest - Netherlands

We have a modern tomato farm (29 ha) in Luttelgeest and are constantly looking to improve our growing process with the aim of maximising yields and minimising problems. In doing so, we are also looking at innovations that can help in this respect. Some time ago, we came into contact with Ultramins from Zwaag because they would have a solution for algae, bacteria, fungi and even the ToBRFV virus. We used no other disinfection method besides hydrogen peroxide, a risk we wanted to cover, however, we opted for USAF™ transmitters.

At that time, we had 2 large basins (8,000m2 and 12,000m2) for rainwater harvesting, the water of which was quite green due to algae and for which we were looking for a sustainable and effective solution, preferably with as little fuss as possible.

After several discussions with Ultramins, we started equipping the basins with the USAF™ DT100 transmitters, the silos and dirt drain with 2 times a USAF™ MT400 and a MT600, with this we have the transmitters in all phases of the water chain. The results are so good that we did not want to deny Ultramins a positive review on this site.

In the dirt drain silo, we did keep a green top layer for a while that was because it is indoors and in direct sunlight and the water is full of nutrients, but the water just below it was as clear as tap water! We have since taped off the windows and the top layer is also steadily disappearing. The filters are remarkably clean and we have no virus pressure, we do still use hydrogen peroxide but in a lower dosage than before, about 25% less which is a nice cost saving.

The basins have now been fitted with solar panels by Zon op het Water from Maasdijk, with which Ultramins also has a partnership, and the transmitters have been repositioned under the solar panels. The basin water is also really crystal clear. Which gives us the perfect solution for energy and water management in one hand! The fact that Ultramins also has a partnership with our supplier Mertens and also serves other Oxin Growers with their equipment creates confidence for us. But for us, the most important thing remains that we now have clean pouring water we can rely on.