The South African greenhouse industry is experiencing significant growth, yet it faces mounting pressures that demand strategic decision-making from growers. Dr. Estelle Kempen of Stellenbosch University highlights the importance of optimizing production systems by integrating modern technologies.
"Greenhouse farming in South Africa is on the rise, but growers need to navigate challenges such as energy consumption, water management, labor, and input costs," she explains. "However, there is enormous potential for those who are willing to adopt innovative solutions."
Climate-smart agriculture and protected cropping provide sustainable ways to overcome these challenges. According to Dr. Kempen, these methods ensure more consistent, high-quality yields even under adverse climatic conditions. "The demand for fresh, locally produced food continues to grow, particularly in urban areas. At the same time, there is a clear need for practical training that equips growers, technical staff, and students to capitalize on these opportunities sustainably."
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Practical training to grow sustainably
Stellenbosch University's short courses for 2025 focus on developing hands-on skills in greenhouse and tunnel farming, covering every stage from seed to harvest. They will take place at the HortiDemoCentre but will be available online for those who cannot attend in person.
"Our courses are unique because participants gain direct experience in active production units," Dr. Kempen emphasizes. "Learning by doing is a key component, and we collaborate closely with industry experts who share their practical knowledge in an independent and applicable manner."
Students from various universities are also actively involved at the HortiDemoCentre (HDC), working on trials, collecting and analyzing data, and developing the essential skills required to enter the industry as young professionals.
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What the courses are all about
"We emphasize the importance of beginning with high-quality genetics and healthy seedlings, as well as managing their transition into the greenhouse effectively."
Dr Kempen elaborates that they also put a strong emphasis on daily system monitoring: "Even minor deviations in pH, EC, or climate can significantly impact yield and quality. We teach participants how to interpret data and make timely corrections."
The next focus area is data-driven decision-making. "All our trials and production activities link observations to concrete data, enabling participants to base their decisions on facts rather than assumptions."
The courses will also focus on integrated biological control: "We highlight the importance of integrated pest management, particularly for fresh market production where minimal residues are crucial."
Another focus point in the courses will be understanding plant responses: "One of our main focuses is teaching participants how to read plant signals—whether it's nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease. Plants always indicate when something is wrong; you just need to know where to look."
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Research and industry collaboration at the HortiDemoCentre
Currently, the HortiDemoCentre is conducting a hydroponic cucumber trial in partnership with industry leaders such as Rijk Zwaan, Nexus, and Rennie Farms. The study focuses on variety comparisons, nutrient strategies, and the application of biostimulants to help plants manage stress factors like heat and salinity in the substrate.
"Students at various levels, from honors to master's degrees, are actively involved in data collection, monitoring, and evaluation. This integration of research, practice, and training is one of the HDC's strongest features."
With the growing demand for technical skills and sustainable greenhouse farming practices, the HortiDemoCentre's short courses offer an ideal platform for building expertise, networks, and confidently advancing in the industry.
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Short course information
There will be various short courses this year to focus on different greenhouse areas. The first short course will start next week and will consist of a three-day introductory course on greenhouse hydroponic crop production. It will be presented by Martin von Holdt, Owner of Greener Solutions; Emile de Groot, Technical Advisor at Koppert; Francois Kruger, Product Specialist at IntelliSeed; Estelle Kempen, Lecturer at Stellenbosch University.
Introduction to greenhouses (7-9 April)
Advanced greenhouse production (6-8 May)
Crop strategy and crop rotation (2-4 June)
Fertigation: Irrigation management and nutrition management (1-3 July)
Tomato production (16–18 September)
Integrated pest management (IPM) (28 -30 October)
Cucumber production (12-14 November)
For more information:
Stellenbosch University
Register for the first short course: scapplication.sun.ac.za
Dr Estelle Kempen
estellekempen@sun.ac.za
www.sun.ac.za