Innovation and applied research in fruit cultivation
Proeftuin Randwijk is the central test and validation site for innovation and knowledge development in Dutch fruit cultivation. New techniques, machinery, and data-driven applications are tested and validated here in a real-world environment. The site focuses on developing future-proof, sustainable, and efficient fruit-growing methods.
NXTGEN Handsfree Agrifood activities
Within the NXTGEN Hightech program, Proeftuin Randwijk serves as a test site where innovation and digitalization in fruit cultivation take center stage. New technologies and applications are tested and validated here to help make the sector future-proof.
Precision technology and data-driven fruit cultivation
At Proeftuin Randwijk, advanced sensors and data platforms are used to collect real-time information on tree growth, fruit development, and climate conditions. By analyzing this data, growers can make more precise decisions about pruning, fertilization, and irrigation, leading to more efficient use of resources and higher yields.
Automation and robotics in the fruit sector
A key component of the NXTGEN activities in Randwijk is the use of robots and autonomous systems for pruning, harvesting, and crop monitoring. This helps reduce labor-intensive tasks and increases efficiency in fruit cultivation. Innovative machines and AI-driven technologies are tested and validated here before being implemented on a larger scale.
Sustainable soil management and resilient cropping systems
Within NXTGEN, efforts in Randwijk focus on developing sustainable soil management strategies. By using precision technologies and sensor data, growers can better respond to the needs of the soil and plants, contributing to a healthier cropping system and reduced dependence on crop protection products.
Digital Twin and simulation of cultivation strategies
At Proeftuin Randwijk, experiments are being conducted with Digital Twin technology to test the impact of different cultivation strategies. With a digital replica of the orchard, growers can run simulations and optimize strategic decisions without making physical interventions in the crop.
Test Site Capabilities
Physical Infrastructure
Orchards and trial fields for practice-oriented testing of innovations
Sensor platforms and digital measuring systems for crop monitoring
Robotics and advanced mechanization for autonomous pruning and harvesting
Cold storage and research facilities for studying preservation techniques
Digital Infrastructure
Data platforms and real-time dashboards for analysis and visualization of cultivation data
AI-driven software and machine learning applications for automated cultivation optimization
Digital Twin technology for simulating cultivation scenarios and production strategies
Cloud-based storage for sharing and processing research data
Expertise and Support
Researchers and data specialists provide support for testing and validation processes
Crop advisors and innovation experts assist with the implementation of new technologies
Collaboration opportunities between growers, machinery manufacturers, and research institutions
Want to learn more about testing and validating Innovation Package 1?
Within NXTGEN Hightech Agrifood, innovations are tested and optimized to take the next step toward real-world application. Curious about the opportunities and how use cases are advancing their innovations? Our Innovation Package Lead, Natalie Hotrum, will be happy to tell you more.