Robots in greenhouse horticulture: practically applicable, ready for today
Robots in greenhouse horticulture are no longer just a thing of the future. At De Vreede Techniek, we make them practically applicable. No prototypes, but solutions that really work.
What do robots do in greenhouse horticulture?
At De Vreede Techniek, it's all about smart movement of products in the greenhouse. Think of:
- Automatically place plants in containers
- Widening the spacing of plants during growth
- Moving between cultivation and sorting areas
- Control of mobile tables or carts
Our robots are true all-rounders; they can be smartly utilized in multiple steps of the process. This way, you get the most out of your investment.
What challenges do we provide solutions for?
Our systems address current challenges in greenhouse horticulture: Labor shortage: fewer hands available? Robots help maintain the workload Efficient space usage: wider spacing without manual labor = more tranquility and more production Consistent execution: every plant receives the same treatment, day in and day out And all of this without having to renovate your greenhouse.
Practical example: Harvesting and widening
Challenge
A grower wanted to reduce the number of actions involved in harvesting and spacing plants. To be less dependent on staff, without compromising on speed or accuracy.
Approach
We developed a robot that automatically places plants (pot sizes 12, 14, and 17 cm) in the tables and can also space them out later. Unique to this system: it can process different pot sizes simultaneously. For example, it places pot size 14 in the tables while simultaneously spacing out pot size 17.
Result
- One robot automates two processes
- Less dependent on temporary workers
- Accurate, consistent placement leads to better plant quality
Why choose De Vreede Techniek?
✔ In-house design and production — we know how everything works
✔ Experience with technology and greenhouse horticulture — from supply to control
✔ Short lines, direct communication — no endless discussions
✔ Honest advice — if something doesn't work, we say so
Frequently asked questions about robots in greenhouse horticulture
Here are some frequently asked questions
Our robots have been developed to take over tasks that still often require personnel. Think of everything related to moving, positioning, or repeating actions. For example:
- Placing plants in tables, containers, or gutters
- Widening during growth
- Moving between cultivation section, sorting area, or buffer
- Passing on or preparing plants for the next step
- Managing transport systems or collaborating on a line
By smartly switching between functions, one robot can often combine multiple tasks. We always look at: where is a person still going back and forth with a cart or table? There is a good chance that there are gains to be made with automation.
So: do you see any daily manual work appearing in your process? Then it’s worth looking together to see if a robot can do that more intelligently.
Yes. Our robots are built modularly, allowing them to perform multiple tasks within a single cultivation system. For example: placing pots and spacing them out with the same machine. This saves space, costs, and switching time.
After agreement, we will start building and testing. Within a few months, the robot will be operating in your greenhouse — fully tailored to your working methods. We will coordinate the planning and delivery in consultation.
Our systems are robust and built for daily use. However, something can always go wrong. That's when quick service is important. We offer direct support and can often monitor remotely or quickly send a technician.
No. Although we are very active in the greenhouse horticulture sector, we also provide solutions for other sectors — for example, in the metal industry, where repetitive tasks or internal transport can be automated.
Think about moving, positioning, or sorting components. We build custom solutions that do what is necessary, even outside the greenhouse.
Want to know more? Get in touch
Do you want to see how such a robot works in practice? Or just brainstorm about your process?
Call, email, or request a demo. We would love to see how we can make your work smarter.