PeriFert's objective is to facilitate the development of an accessible, flexible and innovative machine for row fertilisation that can utilise liquid fertilisers, with a particular focus on the significant potential of circular fertilisers.

The objective is a 20% reduction in fertiliser use by 2030. This is the objective of the 'Farm to Fork' strategy. Meanwhile, there has been a significant increase in the price of fertilisers. It is therefore essential to utilise fertilisers efficiently and to explore alternative options to artificial fertilisers. There are promising prospects for row fertilisation and the use of RENURE fertilisers (fertiliser substitutes based on animal manure) and ammonium salts from air scrubbers. The Vegetable Experimentation Station developed a prototype of a row fertiliser several years ago, with the specific purpose of trialling its use in field fertilisation. This operates on the basis of a peristaltic pump and has already demonstrated its reliability and precision over several years. Consequently, there was considerable interest among growers in this machine. However, it has not been further developed or adapted for use by growers. The objective of this project is to enhance the prototype in line with input from growers and in collaboration with a constructor, thereby addressing the identified shortcomings. Furthermore, the potential of circular fertilisers will be showcased in trials, and efforts will be made to connect producers with potential buyers of these fertilisers.

Partners: Lambers LMB, Vlaams Coördinatiecentrum voor de mestverwerking (VCM), Landbouwcommunicatie, Proefstation voor de Groenteteelt (PSKW), 7 different growers

Financing: Operationele Groep

Duration: 01/01/2023 - 31/12/2024

Contact PSKW: Renik Van den Eynde - renik.van.den.eynde@proefstation.be