Case Study: Transforming Greenhouse Agriculture with Harmony Stempfus

Background
A Southern European grower with 20 hectares of greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers faced chronic outbreaks of Fusarium, Phytophthora, Tuta Absoluta and Rhizoctonia, devastating crops despite heavy chemical fungicide use. This resulted in wilting, root rot, and damping-off, severely impacting yields. Tuta absoluta larvae feed on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits, causing significant damage. This lead to reduced yieldsa and lower fruit quality, and even could cause a complete crop loss. High chemical applications led to concerns about elevated residues in the produce, including elements like chlorpyrifos, carbaryl, and organophosphates, which concentrated in the crops. These residues negatively affected marketability and prices, as consumers increasingly prioritize produce with minimal chemical inputs. This case study examines the grower’s challenges, implemented solutions, and outcomes, highlighting the potential of bio-based alternatives to address both disease pressure and chemical residue concerns.
Objectives
To assess the effectiveness of MRB Biotechnology solutions for Greenhouses incuding the products applied: MRB Mix, MRB Mix Plus, MRB Organic, MRB Lion+, MRB Harmony Stempfus, MRB Toramax. The biocontrol products are designed to combat soilborne pathogens and Tuta absoluta larvae for tomatoes and promote healthier crops, alongside MRB comprehensive product range, including foliar and radicular treatments.
To increase the Yield compared to untreated plots by more than 15%
To dramatically decrease the incidence of Fusarium wilt, Phytophthora, Tuta Absoluta and Rhizoctonia .
To increase soil microbial activity by min 20%, fostering a healthier and more balanced soil ecosystem.
Results
Disease Control
Treated Plots:
Fusarium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia and Tuta Absoluta incidence dropped by 85%, with no significant outbreaks recorded during the trial.
Leave and stems were helthier
Root systems were visibly healthier, with no signs of rotting or damping-off.
Control Plots:
Continued to experience high disease pressure, with pathogen incidence remaining above 30%.
Yield and Crop Quality
Treated Plots:
Average yield increased as follows:
Tomatoes by 40%, reaching 16.8 kg/m², compared to 12 kg/m² in control plots.
Cucumbers by 46%, reaching 22 kg/m², compared to 15 kg/m² in control plots.
Peppers by 32%, reaching 13.2 kg/m², compared to 10 kg/m² in control plots.
Fruits were uniform in size and color, with fewer culls due to disease-related defects.
Control Plots:
Yield remained stagnant, with significant losses attributed to disease.
Soil Health Improvement
Treated plots showed a 40% increase in beneficial microbial populations, improving soil organic matter and long-term fertility.
Economic Impact
ROI on MRB products was 4:1, meaning every dollar invested in Harmony Stempfus and MRB’s solutions returned four dollars in increased revenue.
Conclusions:
The field trial demonstrates the transformative potential of MRB Harmony Stempfus in managing soilborne diseases and improving overall greenhouse productivity. By integrating advanced biocontrol solutions with tailored support from MRB engineers, the farmer was able to regain control over disease management, boost yields, and ensure sustainable farming practices.
This success underscores MRB Biotechnology’s commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable solutions for modern agriculture, making Harmony Stempfus a must-have tool for greenhouse growers worldwide.