Belgium launches first large-scale hydro leek production in Ypres

BELGIUM – The first large-scale open-air hydro leek cultivation has been launched in Ypres, Belgium, setting a new standard for efficiency in vegetable production.

Hydro leeks grow on floating carriers in a 3,000 m² basin filled with circulating nutrient water instead of soil. This setup makes it possible to produce as many leeks annually as 1.5 to 2 hectares of open field cultivation.

“In this cultivation system, we control water and nutrients down to the last detail, optimising growing conditions and thus producing uniform, healthy leeks in a shorter cultivation period,” said Tim De Cuypere, researcher at Inagro.

“This allows us to efficiently achieve multiple growing cycles per year. In addition, the high plant density ensures optimal production.”

The system also cuts the use of fertilisers and pesticides since nutrients stay within the closed basin and weeds cannot grow.

Soil-borne diseases are eliminated, and the harvested leeks remain free of soil particles, a quality feature that strengthens their export value.

The concept began in 2015 with small trials. After nearly a decade of research, it is now being applied on a commercial scale at the Boudry family farm in Ypres.

“In an open field, we grow around 24 hectares of leeks every year. Thanks to our cooperation with Inagro, we started experimenting with hydro leeks in a small basin on our farm in 2022. The advantages soon became clear,” said farmer Bart Boudry.

“Growth is fast, the product is crisp, and labor requirements are lower. We truly see a future in this.”

The large basin, designed with energy efficiency and advanced technology in mind, welcomed its first plants in July. In the coming seasons, it will serve as a reference site for demonstrations and further optimisation.

Ready for scaling and export

Hydromasters developed the cultivation carrier in partnership with REO, Inagro, and Indurra. A harvesting robot, created by Indurra with Vlaio support, will be installed later this year. The robot will automatically harvest and process the leeks, a key step in making the system scalable.

“The trials showed that the cultivation is profitable, even when factoring in the investment cost,” said Rik Decadt, manager of study services and sustainability at REO. “The positive results of taste and storage tests confirm the quality of the final product.”

The system complements, rather than replaces, traditional farming. “Production in open field and on carriers can perfectly coexist,” said Filip Vanaken, general manager of REO. “REO remains fully committed to both systems and supports growers in their choices.”

West Flanders, home to 85% of Flanders’ leek production, now positions hydro cultivation as part of its strategy.

“With hydro leeks, we show that craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand here,” said Bart Naeyaert, deputy for agriculture and horticulture in West Flanders.

Growers will have a chance to view the system on August 26 during a demonstration at the Boudry farm. At the event, Inagro will also distribute a practical cultivation manual developed from four years of research. The manual will be made available free online afterward.

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