The Crop Science Research and Development Center at Randolph, Minn., includes a greenhouse that will allow researchers to simulate up to six growing environments at once to replicate conditions across multiple agricultural regions. Brian Kuehl, CHS director of product development for crop protection, says the facility will elevate the company’s research and development capabilities.
The center was built using advanced materials for durability, enhanced thermal efficiency and improved light. It allows in more than 90% of natural sunlight to provide a real-world testing environment, says Alissa Geske, head of greenhouse research for CHS.
“The greenhouse was built with sustainability in mind,” Kuehl says. “It will speed up product development and evaluation at lower cost, which benefits growers. We will be able to run trials year-round instead of relying on just the growing season.”
CHS research at the center will focus on improving and developing new crop protection and nutrition products, biostimulants, seed treatments and more, Kuehl adds. Conducting research in a controlled environment is a game-changer, says Geske.
“When we relied on outdoor field trials, the weather wasn’t always conducive for disease development, for example,” she says. “In the greenhouse, that’s not an issue. It will streamline our research to bring the best products to market quickly so we can help our owners and customers meet their goals.”
Check out the full Spring 2024 C magazine with this article and more.
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