kasbedrijven

Kasbedrijven, or greenhouse businesses, are agricultural enterprises that grow crops under protected cultivation in glasshouses or polytunnels. They are a central component of the horticultural sector in temperate regions and can range from small family businesses to large, integrated complexes with many hectares of greenhouse space. Kasbedrijven are typically located in areas with favorable light conditions and access to water, energy, and logistics.

Technology and methods in kasbedrijven emphasize climate control, automation, and efficient cultivation systems. Modern greenhouses use regulated heating and cooling, ventilation, shading, and sometimes CO2 enrichment to stabilize growth conditions year-round. Many kasbedrijven employ hydroponic or soilless cultivation, with nutrient solutions delivered to plants via recirculating systems. Lighting, often LED, extends daylight hours in winter. Integrated pest management and biological controls are common to reduce chemical use, and water reuse minimizes waste. The infrastructure supports rapid production cycles, high yields, and a consistent supply of products beyond the outdoor growing season.

Crops grown in kasbedrijven include vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, as well as ornamental plants and cut flowers. The sector is characterized by high capital intensity and significant energy consumption, but also by opportunities for quality control, product differentiation, and export. Kasbedrijven operate within national and European agricultural policies, with emphasis on sustainability, traceability, and compliance with plant health regulations.

Challenges facing kasbedrijven include energy prices, climate risks, pest and disease pressure, labor availability, and market competition. Conversely, innovations in automation, energy efficiency, and sustainable production offer avenues for growth and resilience.