Plant Breeder Anthura Focuses on Daylight-Free Cultivation
by Marthe Oltheten03 June 20253 min read
Research into Vertical Farming as a Step Toward Climate Goals
Anthura continues to innovate and explore the possibilities of daylight-free cultivation, also known as vertical farming. The aim is not only to develop optimal cultivation recipes for the varieties they breed, but also to investigate whether the production and export of their main product groups can become more sustainable. “Imagine growing Phalaenopsis and Anthurium in a controlled environment, without being dependent on external influences. The possibilities are endless: our tropical plants could be grown sustainably even in the middle of the desert,” says Marco van Herk, Commercial Director at Anthura.
Daylight-Free Cultivation in Ornamental Horticulture
Anthura began developing daylight-free cultivation cells as early as 2013. The reason is clear: in these cells, all conditions can be adjusted down to the smallest detail, without any seasonal influence. This enables uniform cultivation anywhere and in any climate, thanks in part to highly precise cultivation recipes developed in parallel. Daylight-free cultivation offers enormous potential for the ornamental sector, but also presents challenges. Costs are high, both for energy and construction. Additionally, each plant responds differently to the conditions in the cultivation cells. By continuously adjusting the cultivation recipes and mapping every variable, Anthura has made significant progress in vertical farming to date.
Climate Goals
Daylight-free cultivation offers significant environmental benefits. It allows Anthura to grow without chemicals, as no fungi or pests can enter the cultivation cell. Moreover, it leads to substantial water savings, since there is no evaporation. Only the water absorbed by the plant is used. This presents interesting opportunities for growing tropical crops in areas where water is scarce. The circular reuse of water—and therefore also nutrients—contributes to a more sustainable production process. Not only is much less water needed, but nutrients are no longer lost through runoff.
Next Steps
However, transitioning to large-scale application requires boldness and investment. Just as LED lighting was once expensive and became affordable through scaling, this technology will also become more accessible over time. Once a critical mass is reached, costs can decrease, making daylight-free cultivation a realistic and sustainable solution for the future. To accelerate the development and scaling of daylight-free cultivation, Anthura is actively seeking strategic partners willing to invest in this innovative cultivation method. Collaboration and funding can help make the technology more affordable and enable large-scale implementation.
About Anthura
Anthura is a leading breeder specializing in Anthuriums, Orchids, and Bromeliads. With years of experience and a strong focus on innovation, Anthura strives to develop the most beautiful plant varieties. By continuously anticipating future trends and needs, Anthura remains a pioneer in the ornamental horticulture sector. Expertise and passion for plants are reflected in every new variety introduced, with quality and sustainability at the core.
Daylight-Free Cultivation in Ornamental Horticulture
Anthura began developing daylight-free cultivation cells as early as 2013. The reason is clear: in these cells, all conditions can be adjusted down to the smallest detail, without any seasonal influence. This enables uniform cultivation anywhere and in any climate, thanks in part to highly precise cultivation recipes developed in parallel. Daylight-free cultivation offers enormous potential for the ornamental sector, but also presents challenges. Costs are high, both for energy and construction. Additionally, each plant responds differently to the conditions in the cultivation cells. By continuously adjusting the cultivation recipes and mapping every variable, Anthura has made significant progress in vertical farming to date.
Climate Goals
Daylight-free cultivation offers significant environmental benefits. It allows Anthura to grow without chemicals, as no fungi or pests can enter the cultivation cell. Moreover, it leads to substantial water savings, since there is no evaporation. Only the water absorbed by the plant is used. This presents interesting opportunities for growing tropical crops in areas where water is scarce. The circular reuse of water—and therefore also nutrients—contributes to a more sustainable production process. Not only is much less water needed, but nutrients are no longer lost through runoff.
Next Steps
However, transitioning to large-scale application requires boldness and investment. Just as LED lighting was once expensive and became affordable through scaling, this technology will also become more accessible over time. Once a critical mass is reached, costs can decrease, making daylight-free cultivation a realistic and sustainable solution for the future. To accelerate the development and scaling of daylight-free cultivation, Anthura is actively seeking strategic partners willing to invest in this innovative cultivation method. Collaboration and funding can help make the technology more affordable and enable large-scale implementation.
About Anthura
Anthura is a leading breeder specializing in Anthuriums, Orchids, and Bromeliads. With years of experience and a strong focus on innovation, Anthura strives to develop the most beautiful plant varieties. By continuously anticipating future trends and needs, Anthura remains a pioneer in the ornamental horticulture sector. Expertise and passion for plants are reflected in every new variety introduced, with quality and sustainability at the core.