Teelt

Teelt is a Dutch term meaning the cultivation or growing of crops, including the management of soil, water, light, temperature, and plant nutrition to achieve crop production. In agricultural practice, teelt is differentiated into veldteelt (field cultivation) and kassenteelt (greenhouse cultivation). Veldeelt typically involves field crops such as grain, sugar beet, potatoes, and forage, often relying on seasonal weather, soil-based irrigation, mechanical weed control, fertilization, and crop rotations. Kassenteelt refers to controlled-environment cultivation, using glass houses or plastic tunnels, often with climate control, substrate cultivation (rockwool, coco coir, or field soil), irrigation systems, automated climate control, and integrated pest management. Protected cultivation enables year-round production and higher yields, particularly for vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers), soft fruits, and ornamental plants.

Key components of teelt include soil preparation, seed selection, sowing or planting, germination management, irrigation and drainage, fertilization, pest and disease monitoring, pruning and training (especially in fruit and ornamental crops), and harvesting. Propagation may involve seeds, cuttings, or budding, depending on crop species. Crop rotation and soil fertility management help sustain yields and reduce disease pressure. Economic and environmental considerations influence teelt practices, including energy use for heating, water efficiency, and emission controls, particularly in greenhouse operations.

Historically, the Netherlands developed advanced teelt methods, pioneering greenhouse technology, hydroponics, and high-tech horticulture, making it a major producer of vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. See also horticulture, agriculture, glasshouse cultivation.