Aligning technical decisions with production performance
Source: HD.com
Whether introducing new production strategies, reviewing crop performance or seeking external technical input, growers benefit most when objectives are clearly defined and measurable. He adds that achieving improvements depends on clear expectations and practical implementation, with communication, trust and accurate information forming the basis for effective technical decision-making.
© Berry Adviser Reliable data improves crop management While farm visits remain an important part of crop evaluation, he believes that consistent, high-quality reporting can also support informed decision-making between visits. As he explains, "You cannot fix what no one will name." Evaluating cost savings without sacrificing yield As production costs continue to rise, substrate is frequently considered an area where savings can be made.
However, despite representing only around 2.5% to 4.0% of raspberry production costs, substrate has a direct influence on root development, irrigation performance and ultimately crop productivity. © Berry Adviser Before selecting lower-cost materials or introducing substrate recycling, he recommends reviewing purchasing strategies, substrate specifications, dust content, transport costs and whether the current coir blend remains the most suitable option for the crop.
Why this matters: For operators, this is a water-management story. The useful signal is that direct substrate measurements can help cut drain loss materially without giving up yield or fruit quality, which is exactly the kind of controllable efficiency gain a facility can build on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does substrate sensing matter in free-drain strawberry systems?
Because drain percentage tells a grower what already happened, while substrate moisture and EC data show root-zone conditions directly. That makes it easier to cut water loss without guessing.
What is the operator takeaway from this trial?
If the thresholds are understood well enough, growers can reduce drain water materially while protecting yield and fruit quality, which makes sensing an operational tool instead of a reporting tool.
