We highly value biodiversity, soil conservation, integrated pest management, water management, as well as equipment precision in order to minimize our ecological footprint.
Considering the environment as an ally and respecting natural resources
Sustainable agriculture is highly valued at Delfland, and we attach great importance to natural approaches. Our agronomists focus on continuous improvement in order to promote synergy between the different elements.
We team up with researchers, universities, marketing partners (sales, marketing, distribution), suppliers and customers. Several research projects are carried out every year in our fields.
Integrated Pest Management
* Scouting : We work in close collaboration with the Consortium PRISME in order to identify and evaluate the presence of pests on the crops. The scouters observe the crops everyday and provide recommendations based on their observation as to specific agricultural practices. For more information.
* Use of sterile flies : We are using a sterile flies technique to combat certain insects in a natural manner. This reduces our ecological footprint. For more information.
* Use of anti-insect nets : We use nets as a mean to naturally control certain insects.
* Use of Mycorrhiza : This natural mushroom strengthens the root system of the plant, and improves its natural defenses, as well as the plant’s uptake of natural elements.
* Use of spore sensors : This technology allows us to detect and quantify the amount of spores present in the environment. Monitoring the aerial inoculum enables us to limit interventions before damage is observed on the leaves. We are continuing our research with our partner, Consortium PRISME, to integrate this prevention system into all our cultures. For more information.
Biodiversity and soil conservation
* Crop rotation : We make sure to rotate the crops in order to enrich the soil, to maintain a good biodiversity, and to keep the soil healthy.
* Use of cover crops : The use of a wide variety of cover crops allows us to optimize biodiversity as well as to keep the soil alive and to protect it in between growing seasons.
Water management
* Field cartography : The fields were mapped out using cartography, so we can know what their useful water resources are.These cards are used in combination with tensiometers.
* Use of tensiometers : This precision tool helps us to optimize our use of water. It is used along with a software that predicts in real time the water required to grow vegetables, and takes into account soil water reserves, as well as the weather. This technology was developed as part of a research directed by Professor Jean Caron in collaboration with Laval University and four vegetable grower partners.
Precise agricultural techniques
* Use of GPS for soil analysis sampling, lime application, and field operations.
* Robotized weeding
* Development of data collection equipment for harvest quality