Sustainable innovation in chicory farming: boosting yields, reducing chemicals

Future-proof chicory farming begins with improved practices that enhance yields and reduce the need for chemicals. Field-testing new technologies is crucial to demonstrate proof-of-concept to growers and lower adoption barriers. René Schunselaar, Manager Agro at Sensus, and his team are dedicated to advancing future-proof chicory farming. He explains how Sensus collaborates with growers to test and implement novel techniques and technologies for sustainable farming.

“Chicory is a very resilient plant. Compared to other crops such as wheat, potatoes or beets, it requires minimal protection against pests and diseases,” René begins. The biggest challenge for growers is controlling weeds to allow the crop to grow sufficiently. René notes a growing market and societal demand to reduce agrochemical use, however, which limits growers’ options for crop protection. “This is why we are working with growers to reduce herbicide use,” he continues. “To ease this transition, we provide advice and specific programs that offer incentives to adopt new technologies. By investing in ways to limit or eliminate the need for these products while continuing to improve yields, we ensure chicory remains a robust and rewarding crop.”

"Chicory is a very resilient plant"

More Mechanical Weed Control

To accelerate the adoption of mechanical weed control, Sensus is part of the Samen Meer Mechanische Onkruidbestrijding (SMMO, translated from Dutch: More Mechanical Weed Control Together) program from Groeikracht Cosun. René explains: “In various test fields, trials are conducted to develop and implement mechanical weed control. Results are then shared broadly through study groups, publications and events.” One innovation that’s been thoroughly tested over the last couple of years, is the FarmDroid.

“It’s already in use by an increasing number of growers, boasting promising results”, René says about the FarmDroid. “This autonomous robot can plant seeds at the start of the season, saves the location data of each plant, and can be deployed later to remove weeds. This is a perfect example of how innovation can help chicory become a future-proof crop.” The FarmDroid offers numerous benefits: it requires little labor, operates entirely on solar energy, and prevents soil deterioration due to its light weight.

Seed embedding

Another technique Sensus explores to assist growers with early in the season is S&dB’s Seed Embedding Technology. In this technology, chicory seeds are attached to a paper ribbon. This ensures they are planted at the correct distance from each other and at the right depth. “To grow properly, chicory must be planted at the right depth, close to the surface. This technique also places the crops more uniformly, making weed control easier and improving the chances of a favorable season,” René explains.

"Another option we offer is to finance a portion of the machinery through the sustainability premium"

Lowering the threshold

To encourage growers to invest in new technologies like the FarmDroid, Groeikracht Cosun offers subsidies. “After investing, growers receive support from Groeikracht Cosun to correctly implement the technology,” René adds. Growers who cannot invest but have their fields worked by contractors using mechanical weed control can claim a per-hectare surcharge. “Another option we offer is to finance a portion of the machinery through the sustainability premium. By adopting one of these techniques, growers receive a premium of up to 10% of the inulin price. This premium can be used to lower financial risk, improving the adoption rate for more sustainable farming practices.”