Why so many growers embrace Autonomous Control

The need for smart, efficient systems in greenhouse operations has never been greater. Greenhouse growing is becoming more complex due to a shortage of crop expertise, climate changes, sustainability demands, the integration of advanced technologies, and rising expectations for higher yields. Autonomous Climate and Irrigation Control, developed by Blue Radix, addresses these challenges head-on, making greenhouse operations significantly easier while enabling more high-performing greenhouses. Recognized for its impact, Blue Radix won the prestigious GreenTech Innovation Award in 2024 with this solution, reinforcing its leading role in autonomous growing, worldwide. But how does it work and why are more and more growers embracing Autonomous Control?

AI with expert knowledge

Autonomously steering greenhouse installations is a practical application of AI in daily operations. Making processes like climate and irrigation management autonomous, assures accurate, precise and high-frequent actions. Because AI-driven processes do not have any limitation when it comes to process data: the possibilities are endless. At the same time, growing plants is a process where many natural processes come together. However, plant growth involves many natural processes, some of which are difficult to control. That’s why combining AI with expert knowledge of natural growing processes—and clear company and crop goals—is critical. Technology and biology must work together to achieve success.

A better way of being in control

For growers, every decision, might feel personal, a result of years of experience and intuition. The idea of handing over these decisions to AI technology could feel like taking a leap into the unknown. Yet, as the CEA industry evolves, more and more growers are discovering the benefits of autonomous control. It’s not replacing them, it’s helping them 24/7 by taking over the execution of repetitive daily greenhouse tasks like steering the climate computer. They realize optimized operations, increased yields, and they free up valuable time. Allowing them to focus on other strategic decisions and enjoy a better work-life balance. 

15% energy and 10% water savings

Blue Radix’ Crop Controller is a proven and trusted AI solution at more than 100 commercial production locations worldwide. It operates in every climate zone, saving 80% of manual climate computer work. The precise way of steering greenhouse installations via full decision automation is supporting growers so they can manage 4 times more hectares. It also improves profit. This is a logical and direct effect of high-frequent, continuous analysing of all available greenhouse data. Regardless the grower’s strategy and outside weather conditions significant energy reduction has been measured at Blue Radix’ customers. On average they save 13%-18% on energy usage by applying autonomous growing at production locations, whilst also improving yield between 2% and 7% and reducing water usage with 10%.

Win-win for team and company 

Optimization of both energy and irrigation as part of full autonomous growing unlocks tremendous new opportunities for greenhouse entrepreneurs who want to combine cost reduction with sustainability goals, without making any concessions on production results. Growers save valuable time and find more ease in managing all those hectares making autonomous growing a win-win for both team and company.

Blue Radix is Thought Leader of GreenTech Amsterdam, you can meet them and learn more on Autonomous Growing at booth 01.251.