This is where the project TOM4.0 was born. To achieve extensive automation and robotization, Ridder is working on a completely new cultivation concept for growing tomatoes. To simplify robotization, crop management and harvesting are carried out in a central location. To this end, the TOM4.0 system uses short plants with only two trusses, grown on mobile gutters, like lettuce cultivation on gutters (MGS). Every week, plants with ripe fruits are harvested and new plants are grown.

We have started simulating both crop growth and the logistics system. This showed that an additional 20% production is possible compared to the usual high wire cultivation. This increase in production is mainly achieved through better light utilization of the young plants.

In 2022, van der Hoeven Horticultural Projects and Hortiplan joined forces to further develop the TOM4.0 concept. In the following years and with support of Innovatiefonds Hagelunie, cultivation trials were conducted at the World Horti Center in Naaldwijk for model validation and development of the cultivation recipe. In addition, crop support was developed, and economic feasibility was investigated. Based on the promising results, the TOM4.0 cultivation system is tested on a larger scale in Belgium at the Proefstation voor de Groenteteelt (PSKW) from 2025 onwards.

TOM4.0 was designed to facilitate the robotization of tomato cultivation. On top of that, the system has several other potential opportunities for sustainable cultivation:

1. Mobile crop system 

In this system, crops are grown on mobile gutters that move through different climate zones within the greenhouse. Each zone is specifically designed to meet the needs of a particular growth phase, from propagation to harvest. This approach allows for precise environmental control and more efficient use of space and resources.

2. Short tomato plants 

We are working with compact, generative tomato varieties that are ideal for high-density layouts and automation. These plants have shorter internode length, require less vertical space, and are easier to manage with robotic systems. This simplifies pruning, harvesting, and monitoring, while also reducing labor requirements. 

3. Production on demand 

By integrating forecasting tools and real-time data, growers can align production volumes with actual market demand. This enables more flexible planning, reduces overproduction, and ensures that resources are allocated efficiently throughout the crop cycle.

4. Sustainable cultivation

Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the system. Closed-loop irrigation, heat recovery, and intelligent climate control help minimize energy and water use. The mobile crop layout also improves airflow and spacing, which reduces disease pressure and the need for chemical treatments. 

5. Full automation 

Robotic systems are used to perform repetitive tasks such as planting, crop movement, pruning, and harvesting. These systems are supported by AI-driven monitoring tools that track plant health, growth, and environmental conditions. The goal is to create a fully autonomous production flow that maintains high crop quality while reducing dependency on manual labor. 
 
TOM 4.0 is a meaningful step forward for our industry. Together with our partners, we bring innovative and practical solutions to the greenhouse of the next generation.  Let’s connect for growth and turn potential into measurable progress.