Smart growing saves time, water and money

While irrigation and crop planning were largely based on experience and gut feeling for years, a growing number of Dutch growers are now relying on data to support their decisions. The combination of soil measurements, satellite images, and weather information means that decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and crop growth no longer need to be based on assumptions. This not only provides greater insight but also a demonstrable financial advantage.

The Dutch technology company Agurotech is developing a comprehensive data platform that brings this information together. This allows growers in various sectors, from arable farming to ornamental horticulture and fruit growing, to see the condition of their soil and crops in real time. This allows them to confidently decide whether irrigation, fertilization, or waiting is the best option.

From feeling to data-driven decisions
Over the past few years, Agurotech has field-tested its technology at a wide range of companies, from onion and potato growers to flower bulb and fruit growers. Sensors measure soil moisture and temperature. Satellites monitor crop growth and vitality, while local weather data provides insight into precipitation, temperature, and evaporation. All this information is brought together in a single, user-friendly app.

Onion grower Pieter Tromp from Overijssel sees the value of this every day. "We used to go out into the fields with the reel, just out of routine," he says. "Now we first look at what the data says. Sometimes it turns out that irrigation isn't necessary yet. That immediately saves fuel, time, and water."

Arable farmer Almar de Bont from Flevoland is also noticing this. "The sensors show exactly how moisture is developing in the soil," he says. "That way, I know whether irrigation is really necessary or if I can wait. This prevents unnecessary work and water consumption, and provides peace of mind during busy periods."

In fruit growing, the technology is used to detect water stress early and prevent quality loss. In ornamental horticulture, the system helps to precisely manage growth rate and root development.

Economic profit through precision
The economic value of data-driven cultivation is now clearly visible. Fewer irrigation rounds means lower energy consumption and labor costs. At the same time, the risk of yield loss due to excessively dry or wet conditions decreases.

Growers who with Agurotech Those who work hard often see results within a single season. "You recoup your investment immediately," says Tromp. "We irrigated one plot twice as much as usual. That's immediate money, without compromising yield."

The data not only helps with irrigation but also with planning. By knowing in advance where the crop is experiencing drought stress, a grower can better determine when the reel should go where. This ensures optimal utilization of the capacity of machines and personnel.

More peace, less guesswork
Besides economic profit, peace of mind also plays a role. Many growers indicate that data-driven cultivation provides greater certainty. Where they previously relied on experience and gut feeling, they now have concrete information on which to base their decisions.

"You don't have to guess anymore," says De Bont. "If the data shows it's still wet enough, you can safely wait. And if a drought is coming, you'll know in time."

Accessible and practical to use
While the system combines advanced technology, it remains simple to use. The Agurotech app displays soil moisture, temperature, crop development, and weather forecast at a glance. Based on this information, growers can immediately decide if action is needed.

"You don't have to be a technician to benefit from it," says Tromp. "The technology supports what you already know, but provides additional certainty."

Smart farming is future-oriented entrepreneurship
The experiences of these growers demonstrate that data-driven cultivation is no longer a pipe dream. The technology is available, and its added value is proven, both economical and practical. This applies not only to arable farmers but also to ornamental and fruit companies looking to optimize their water use and improve product quality.

"Our mission is to make data understandable and useful for every grower," says Lilia Planjyan of Agurotech. "Whether it's soil, crop, or weather: insight provides peace of mind, efficiency, and improved returns."

Want to know more about how data-driven cultivation can also help your company save? Visit www.agurotech.com or contact us at info@agurotech.com.