Stofbergen Plants
- Beatrix Büte
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Ornamentals
At Stofbergen in Bergschenhoek, 4.5 hectares of bromeliads are grown with a strong focus on sustainability. For Robert van Velzen, who leads crop protection, one pest stood out: the banana moth (Opogona sacchari). Its larvae live deep inside the plant, causing damage long before it is visible.
“In the past, we had almost no visibility on the pressure, especially with sensitive varieties,” Robert says. “The damage often hit hard before we even noticed it.”
From scattered data to real-time insights
When chemical options disappeared, Stofbergen turned to pheromone traps, but with limited results.
“The moths are mostly active at night, and our lighting schedule made them nearly impossible to monitor.”
Since the end of 2023, they have used PATS-C, an automated camera system that tracks moth activity 24/7.
“We’ve now used it for over a year and a half, and the results are excellent. We can see exactly when pressure builds and respond more effectively.”
Better timing with biologicals
Stofbergen’s main control method is nematodes, a biological solution that only works when applied at the right moment.
“Thanks to PATS-C, we now know exactly when to dose,” Robert explains. “That means less damage, lower costs, and no surprises.” The team no longer needs broad treatments that disrupt beneficial insects. They act only when and where needed. “We apply nematodes at the right time. That makes a world of difference.”
Tech and biology, working together
With PATS-C providing daily pest pressure data, Stofbergen has significantly improved its pest management strategy.
“Continuous monitoring helps us anticipate better and intervene with precision,” says Robert. “It allows us to control the banana moth successfully, while protecting the crop and keeping input use low.”
Since introducing the system, the average pressure has been reduced by at least 95 percent. The pest is still present, but well managed, and the team remains alert to sudden changes.
Smarter control, better results
For Stofbergen Plants, success comes from combining technology with biology. With real-time insights and precise timing, they have built a more resilient, sustainable system for pest control.
Robert van Velzen -Crop Protection Specialist
Want the full story on Stofbergen’s journey with PATS? Read the Floral Daily feature
