September 6, 2023 – Renzo Grootscholten embarked on a transformative internship adventure at Bevofarms in Canada, describing it as “a time to never forget.” As part of his horticulture and agri-business studies in Delft, Renzo chose to spend five months in Canada to work at Bevofarms, a decision motivated by a desire for international exposure while it was still feasible.
Bevofarms, a large propagator in Vancouver, manages approximately 45 hectares of greenhouses and employs around 150 to 200 people depending on the season. Renzo appreciated the opportunity to work with a diverse range of crops, contrasting it with the more specialized crop cultivation in the Netherlands.
During his internship, Renzo and fellow intern Rick undertook research projects focused on water and climate-related activities. They were tasked with researching the impact of LED lighting in climate chambers on tomato and bell pepper plants, specifically examining the effects of different day lengths and variations in light intensity. The research aimed to determine optimal conditions for the cultivation of young tomato and bell pepper plants, especially in a vertical farming environment.
Renzo shared the outcomes of their research, noting that peppers displayed a remarkable 15% higher germination rate when exposed to specific LED light conditions, while tomatoes exhibited a 5 to 10% increase. As a result, Bevofarms decided to install climate chambers in December.
The international environment was a valuable aspect of Renzo’s experience, offering insights into horticulture practices beyond the Netherlands. Renzo emphasized the importance of recognizing the global diversity within horticulture and the opportunities it presents for growth and learning.
Peter Kuijvenhoven, representing Bevofarms, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of international exposure for young horticulture students. Peter’s own early internship experience in Canada inspired him to later return to the country and eventually take over Bevofarms.
Renzo’s internship has now come to a close, and he is preparing to start the final year of his studies in September. Reflecting on his time at Bevofarms, Renzo expressed pride in the work he and his fellow intern accomplished during their internship. He added that while closing this chapter felt bittersweet, he looks forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.