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Speaker Program - Wednesday

Home > Attendee Information > Speaker Program > Speaker Program - Wednesday

Looking forward to seeing you in October

The 2024 Canadian Greenhouse Conference will bring experts to you!

 

Legend:  Greenhouse / Garden Centre    Flower    Vegetable    Berry    Informative

Wednesday Morning Concurrent Sessions

9:30 AM 

 


 9:30 AM

 

 

This session is sponsored by

Sollum Tech

 

 

Xiuming Hao
Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada

On-Farm Pepper LED Lighting Trials

In this presentation, dynamic LED lighting strategies and crop management practices used in a large commercial greenhouse for successful year-round pepper production will be discussed. The lighting strategies can reduce light capital costs and electricity costs while allowing year-round production of quality pepper.

Jared Wolfe
smartGRO

Advancing Leading Edge Horticultural Lighting Technology

According to resent research, the maximum efficacy of LED lighting is very close to reaching its theoretical maximum efficacy.  In this talk, we discuss the results of our ongoing efforts to propel efficacy beyond this threshold through strategic integration of AI and how this technology can reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Agriculture and improve the bottom line for growers.

Morgane-Louise Canovas
Laval University

BUGS, BULBS & BIO-CONTROL: How artificial lighting impacts beneficials?

Artificial lighting (AL) using light-emitting diodes has proven to be a valuable tool for supporting the productivity of greenhouse crops. Additionally, greenhouses are ideal for implementing biological control programs involving beneficial insects (i.e., parasitoid wasps and predators). However, sensitivity to the light spectrum differs for plants and insects, including beneficials. To what extent does AL influence insects in a horticultural context?

First, we will review the current knowledge on the impact of lighting on insect behaviors affecting biological control. Then, we will present some original results comparing the combined effect of AL under different conditions on the control performance of the predatory bug O. insidiosus against the Western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis), as well as the morphological and physiological responses of greenhouse cucumber (Cucumis sativus). Lighting conditions conducive to biological control by O. insidiosus have been identified, suggesting that AL can support both pest control performance and crop productivity.
 
Fadi Al-Daoud
Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness

Managing Nighttime Greenhouse Light Emissions

This presentation is based on a multi-year project launched in 2020 to understand greenhouse light emissions and the effect of light abatement curtains on the greenhouse environment and crops. It summarizes results from multiple research projects and includes recommendations for best management practices.

 


9:30 AM 

 

This session is sponsored by

Sollum Tech

 

Jeff Neese
Costa Farms

 

Tropical troubles! Pests you should know

Exploring pests most likely to cause trouble in your tropical production.

Justin Hancock
Costa Farms

 

Tropical Trends & Market Insights

Dig in for industry trends and consumer insights driving the tropical plant industry. In this session we’ll discuss what’s hot (and new), from top plants to the role of “plantfluencers” in today’s consumer-marketing efforts.

Rose Buitenhuis
Vineland Research & Innovation Centre

Research on Thrips parvispinus, what do we know about managing this invasive pest?

Since the arrival of Thrips parvispinus in some of the major greenhouse crop producing areas in the world (including Canada), a lot of researchers have started working on this invasive pest. This presentation will give an overview of the biology and pest potential of T. parvispinus and will summarize the research initiatives taking place in Canada, the US and Europe on T. parvispinus management.

 *approximately 30-minute presentations


9:30 AM 

 

Delaney Nash
University of Waterloo

 

Tracking ToBRFV Lineages Using a Novel Genomic Sequencing Method

The ToBRFV is a highly virulent and robust plant pathogen that evades plant virulence resistance genes. To track this virus, as well as understand its phylogeny and evolution we devised a novel genomic sequencing method and lineage prediction tool. In combination, these tools allow the identification of specific ToBRFV strains. We have applied these tools to identify ToBRFV strains in different samples, including infected tomato crops, and have found that this virus is highly abundant in wastewater.

Jens Ehlers
Menno Chemie 

Superspreader “human” - How to get ToBRFV under control

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) causes serious or even existence-threatening financial losses in tomato cultivation worldwide. Like other tobamoviruses, ToBRFV is easily transmitted mechanically, resulting in the infection of entire tomato crops within a very short time. Humans are mainly responsible for the spread of ToBRFV through contaminated clothing, shoes, hands or vehicles.In the studies, practice-relevant contamination and transmission ways of ToBRFV were scientifically investigated and, based on this, hygiene strategies were developed with a focus on the anthropogenic spread of ToBRFV. The choice of a suitable product and the implementation of effective and practicable hygiene concepts were identified as key factors in hygiene management.

Adrian Fox
Fera Science 

It's on everything, everywhere, all at once: Lessons from managing ToBRFV in the UK

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus has rapidly emerged as the major viral disease affecting global tomato production. The UK has experienced relatively few outbreaks, and (thus far) eradication action has been successful. Collaboration with UK growers, plant health inspectors, risk managers, and international research groups has ensured that research has been focused on the growers needs, initially focussing on early detection from the plant, and the efficacy of disinfection methods for eradicating the virus. This focus has now shifted to understanding the mechanics of outbreaks, both at the global level in supporting genetic diversity studies on the source of infections, and within the glasshouse trying to understand the sources and risk of environmental residues both as a cause of subsequent infections and as confounding factors in diagnostics.  The presentation will discuss recent and current work supporting UK tomato growers combatting this virus.

 

Kai-Shu Ling
USDA

Managing the Emerging ToBRFV Using Ozone Treatment & Disease Resistance

The emerging tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) poses a serious threat to tomato production worldwide. This highly contagious tobamovirus breaks disease resistance genes in tomato. To manage this emerging virus in greenhouses, it is necessary to incorporate an integrated pest management. In addition to planting certified tomato seeds tested free of ToBRFV, you would need to select effective disinfectants for cleaning and disinfection of tools, equipment and facilities. In this study, we demonstrated that ToBRFV released to water run-off in a hydroponic system caused a new infection on tomato plants. However, a cold plasma ozone treatment deactivates the virus in ToBRFV-contaminated water solutions. To develop tomato with resistance to ToBRFV, we screened many USDA tomato germplasm and identified a source of resistance in Solanum pimpinellifolium, which could be used for tomato breeding. By incorporating proper disinfection, ozone treatment and disease resistance, it is possible to manage this emerging virus. 

 

 

 

9:30 AM 

 

This session is sponsored by

Stephanie Vickers
Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness

Hype or Hope? What's Driving the Sustainability Push?

There is a lot of buzz around "sustainability" in the agri-food industry and many companies are developing sustainability initiatives as a result. I'll discuss the drivers of sustainability demands in agri-food value chains, current initiatives out there, and how this push toward sustainability may affect your operation in the future (if it isn't already). I'll also cover opportunities for growers and organizations to address this trend proactively.

 

Andrew Lee
Grodan

Where next in energy saving for high-tech greenhouse horticulture?

The discussion will focus on a collaborative research project between Grodan and Philips Horticulture LED Solutions. Our aim was to reduce total heat input into a full LED lighted tomato crop >40%.

So what’s the dilemma? In winter when you have a minimum radiant heat input from the sun combined with energy efficient LED lights, how can you work with lower pipe temperatures, stimulate sufficient plant transpiration and nutrient uptake, whilst at the same time control greenhouse humidity?

The answer is you have to do something that’s not been done before, you have to set a vision for the new ‘norm’.

We shall talk about how we overcame our dilemma and achieved >50% lower heat input compared to a reference tomato grower with the same variety.

If you at not a tomato grower, or you do not grow with lights the approach to energy saving is also transferable to your situation.

Camille Hanna
SkyTree

Transforming CO2 for Canadian CEA

This presentation will focus on the benefits of Direct Air Capture, and how this technology can benefit greenhouses and vertical farms, and the wider controlled environment agriculture industry. It will also share examples of integrations of DAC and CEA to demonstrate the scalability of the technology. 

 *Approximately 30-minute presentations

Wednesday Afternoon Concurrent Sessions

2:00 PM 

 


2:00 PM 
 

 

 

Alexandra Grygorczyk
Vineland Research & Innovation Centre

 

Landfill diversion of greenhouse crop residues: Current options, opportunities and challenges

The greenhouse sector in the Leamington area currently landfills approximately 150, 000 tonnes of fruit grade-outs, vines and growing media annually. With no new landfill construction planned, it is anticipated that landfills in the area will run out of space within the next five years. Due to rising costs of transportation and landfill tipping fees, many growers have already begun finding alternatives for their crop residues. The presentation will discuss various strategies that growers are currently using to manage their crop residues such as diverting grade-outs to food and cosmetics industries or changing sorting practices to reduce grade-out volumes. The presentation will also discuss new opportunities under development that may become available within the next year such as entomocomposting, dehydration of vines for use in biomass boilers and upcycled growing media.

 

Tamara Lockwood-Ortiz
Infinite Harvest Technologies

Bugs4Rent & a Zero-Waste Future

What if there was a more cost-effective & sustainable way to process organic waste streams?  And what if we could also upcycle economic value from waste itself? IHT’s insect bio-digestion solution is a simple, cost-effective and sustainable alternative for landfill or composting. Tamara will present the results of the OGVG pilot study at Vineland Research & Innovation Centre, demonstrating how Greenhouse producers can up-cycle economic value from waste and improve ESG and carbon indicators.

 


2:00 PM 

 

 

This session is sponsored by

Premier Tech

  

Abbie Wiesner
Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Agribusiness


 

Global Perspective on Peat Use and Growing Media Alternatives

While acknowledging the critical role of peat in floriculture, this presentation offers a global outlook, examining how countries worldwide are managing peat use and transitioning to growing media alternatives. It aims to equip attendees with a broad understanding of these trends, and how to make informed decisions about media choices for floriculture production.

Jason Henry
Vineland Research & Innovation Centre

Alternative Growing Media for Floriculture Production

With an expanding array of growing media alternatives to peat on the market, growers are seeking the best way to integrate these alternatives into their production practices. Beyond the vital considerations of cost, supply logistics, and sustainability profile— functionality is key. Each growing media type has a unique ability to retain and release water available to plants, requiring different fertigation settings and plant selection. Drawing from industry-leading research conducted at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, this talk will delve into the nuances, benefits, and considerations of alternative growing media. Join us for a comprehensive overview, gaining insights into understanding substrates and their profound impact on your plants.

Thomas Marting
HC Companies

Plastics: Upcoming Regulations & Sustainable Solutions on the Horizon

A discussion on the environmental impacts of plastics, current and coming plastic pollution regulations in some regions, and some of the emerging sustainable technology trends and products available the address these concerns.

 *Approximately 30-minute presentations


2:00 PM


 

This session is sponsored by

Pieter Kwakernaak
Hoogendoorn

 

Autonomous Growing vs Being in Control

What is smarter growing? Pushing yields, reducing on input costs or are we looking to increase span of control in greenhouses by letting control systems take more actions automatically?
Rose Séguin
Sollum Tech

 

Novel crops coming to lit greenhouse production: What we know & what we’re learning

As consumers look for more variety in their diets, CEA is responding by integrating new crops including eggplants, berries, melons, greens, etc. This session focuses on the work that has been done on emerging crops in controlled  environments, with a focus on lighting. We'll dive into soft fruits, emerging vine crops and nutraceuticals (food as medicine)
Avery Swartz
Camp Tech

 

Beyond the Buzz: The Future of AI Adoption

In this thought-provoking and engaging presentation, Avery Swartz, digital pioneer and founder of Camp Tech, provides an insightful look into the rapidly evolving landscape of machine learning and generative AI. With a blend of expertise and humour, Avery offers a high-level overview of how this technology functions, and demonstrates the game-changing potential of generative AI tools like ChatGPT. The discussion goes beyond the hype to examine AI's complex ethical terrain. You'll learnhow to navigate issues like bias, privacy, and copyright concerns as you harness AI's remarkable capabilities responsibly.

You’ll leave this presentation feeling empowered with vital knowledge and a mindset to implement these powerful technologies ethically while championing inclusivity. Get ahead of the curve by learning how to guide the positive transformation AI can bring. Embrace the future as an innovative leader driving ethical AI adoption.

 

 

 


2:00 PM

 

This session is sponsored by

 

Rhoda DeJonge
Vineland Research & Innovation Centre

How to work with Alternative Growing Media

With an expanding array of growing media alternatives on the market, growers are seeking the best way to integrate these alternatives effectively. Beyond the vital considerations of cost, supply logistics, and sustainability profile— functionality is key. Each substrate has a unique ability to retain and release water available to plants, requiring different fertigation settings and crop selection. Drawing from industry-leading research conducted at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, this talk will delve into the nuances, benefits, and considerations of alternative growing media. Join us for a comprehensive overview, gaining insights into understanding substrates and their profound impact on vegetable production practices and yields.

Melissa Moher
Pure Life Carbon

Growing Canadian Greenhouse Crops in Charged Carbon

Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) is expected to quadruple in value within the next decade due to population growth, scarcity of water, changing environmental conditions, and consumer pressure for less pesticides and chemicals. Industry is pressured to find more efficient and sustainable means of production, yet there has been no innovation in the last 50 years since single-use soilless growing mediums. Pure Life Carbon developed a standalone soilless growing medium, Charged Carbon, for CEA that is reusable, economical, and performs at par or better than conventional growing mediums – making it a viable solution for food security and the environment. This talk will provide an overview of the ongoing collaborative industry trials on using Charged Carbon in various greenhouse crops in Canada.

Ashley Paling
Niagara College

Observations on the use of Zeolite for Basil and NFT Lettuce Production

The Horticultural and Environmental Sciences Innovation Centre (HESIC) team at Niagara College carried out multiple validation studies of a novel zeolite product called NEREA®, a fertilizer-charged zeolite, as a media amendment to grow basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Crispum’) and as a media alternative in the NFT production of lettuce (Lactuca sativa ‘Salanova’). The trials examined the effects of this product on the growth and health of these crops, the results of which are presented here.

 


2:00 PM 

 

This session is sponsored by

 

Hosted by:

Ashley Summerfield (VRIC)
Rose Buitenhuis (VRIC)
Rose Labbe (AAFC)

 

 Thrips Identification Workshop

This 2 hour, hands on workshop will teach growers and IPM practitioners how to correctly identify thrips species that attack greenhouse crops, including exotic species. All levels of insect experience are welcome, including those who have never used a microscope before.

Limited spots are still available! Email sarah.jandricic@ontario.ca to join.

 

Archives

Looking for a presentation from our past conference?  Please note that not all speakers allow their work to be posted.

2024 Canadian Greenhouse Conference Presentations

2023 Canadian Greenhouse Conference Presentations

2022 Canadian Greenhouse Conference Presentations

2020 Canadian Greenhouse Conference Presentations