Biodegradable grow bags
“The biodegradable grow bags are actually a modern reintroduction of a successful product from the past,” says Piet van den Oord of Oerlemans Plastics. “In the past, plants were often grown in these types of bags, but they were not biodegradable. Later, growers switched to harder pots because they are technically easier to process with machines. Still, we now see demand for grow bags again, because they are practical for growing plants without repotting.”
Material makes a difference
The material of the grow bags makes the difference. “The basic raw material of this film is PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate). This is largely derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch and sugarcane, and can be degraded naturally in the environment. This type of raw material has the great advantage that the film degrades in a constant and controlled manner,” Piet explains. The bags are 50 to 80 mm thick and are designed to last for at least a year above ground. “After that, the degradation process accelerates once the bag enters the ground. On average, it takes six months for the bag to completely disappear, depending on factors such as light, oxygen, temperature and humidity. What remains is only CO₂, water and humus.”
Practical benefits for growers and consumers
The biodegradable grow bags offer practical advantages for growers. “Compared to other solutions, the bags are economical because they use less material. This makes them cost attractive,” Pete says. “Abroad, there is already a lot of interest. There, work is often still done by hand, making it easier to integrate the use of bags.” For growers, the bags also offer convenience. “They are ideal for growing up annual plants or smaller trees. Because repotting is not necessary, it saves an extra step in the process.”
By applying the biodegradable grow bag, it saves waste for the consumer. Namely, when they plant the plant material together with the bag, there is no plastic waste stream. In addition, the roots of the plant material are a lot less likely to be damaged compared to removing a plastic pot.
A changing market
Although the grow bags are not yet widely used, Pete sees many opportunities. “We see demand especially from specialized growers and markets where practical solutions are important. Organizations such as municipalities are also showing interest.”
He emphasizes that using these bags requires a different way of working. “It doesn’t always fit directly into existing systems, but growers who want to explore new possibilities quickly see the benefits. In addition, it matches the changing needs in the industry.”
Next week Oerlemans Plastics will be at the IPM in Essen and the degradable grow bag will of course be on display in the booth.
Source: BloemenPlantennieuws.nl
