Precision growing

Photos courtesy of TTA

Greenhouse Management: Can you tell us about Plainview Growers and your role in the company?

Joe Van Vugt: Plainview Growers Inc. was established in 1986 by my parents, Arie and Flo Van Vugt. What started as a small operation has grown significantly over the years, and today, my brother Tom and I are part of the management team. We’ve been family-owned and operated for over 30 years, with a continuous commitment to providing high-quality plant products. My role primarily focuses on managing our operations, where I oversee our production processes and the integration of technology to ensure we stay ahead in this competitive industry

GM: Plainview Growers has a long history with TTA. Can you tell us about how this relationship began?

JVV: Definitely. Our relationship with TTA started 25 years ago when Anne den Hartigh, TTA’s founder, provided our first high-speed transplanter to my father, Arie Van Vugt. This marked the beginning of a strong partnership that has continued to grow. TTA’s machines have been essential to our operations, helping us maintain efficiency and quality as we’ve expanded.

GM: What TTA machines are currently in use at Plainview Growers?

JVV: We currently utilize several TTA machines, including PackPlanters for transplanting, multiple CombiFix gapping lines, and the recently integrated CuttingEdge robot. Each of these machines plays a critical role in our production process. For instance, the CombiFix gapping lines ensure 100% gapping accuracy, which is crucial for maintaining consistent quality across all our trays.

GM: What makes TTA’s automation solutions stand out to you?

JVV: TTA’s technology stands out for its precision and reliability. Their vision software and plant grippers have been incredibly effective. These features allow us to handle even the most delicate plants with care, which is essential for maintaining the high standards our customers expect. TTA’s machines have not only improved our productivity but also enabled us to deliver top-quality products consistently.

GM: You recently integrated TTA’s CuttingEdge machine. How has that impacted your operations?

JVV: The CuttingEdge has been a fantastic addition to our operation. It’s an automatic sticking machine designed for both rooted and unrooted cuttings. We started with a single unit, but the design allows us to expand to double or even triple configurations as our needs grow. What’s really impressive is the CuttingVision software that controls the machine. It stores all the data from our teach-in and cutting setups, which is then available to all CuttingEdge users. We can also benefit from other users’ experiences. This has saved us a lot of time and optimized our sticking processes. Since we started using the CuttingEdge, we’ve seen noticeable improvements.

GM: How has your partnership with TTA influenced Plainview Growers’ success?

JVV: TTA has proven to be a partner in our success. Their equipment — from transplanters to sorting systems — has positively transformed the way we operate. They offer solutions tailored to our needs, whether it’s transplanting plugs and cuttings or ensuring precise gapping. This has enabled us to stay competitive and grow sustainably.