Aug. 28, 2014, Kingsville, Ont. — Sunset® Produce has completed Phase II
construction of its Coldwater Farms, doubling the greenhouse operation
to 60 acres.
Aug. 28, 2014, Kingsville, Ont. — Sunset® Produce has completed Phase II
construction of its Coldwater Farms, doubling the greenhouse operation
to 60 acres.
Open since 2012, the facility grows Sunset tomatoes-on-the-vine and grape tomatoes 365 days a year. This state-of-the-art greenhouse uses advanced technology, including energy curtains and grow lights.
“The ability to grow fresh tomatoes in the middle of winter is something we are very proud of,” says CEO Paul Mastronardi.
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| The Coldwater, Michigan facilities of Sunset Produce. |
“The location of Coldwater means we can pick, pack and ship the freshest possible tomatoes in the same day. This means we continue to deliver the highest flavour possible while also reducing food miles.”
Sunset recently planted tomatoes-on-the-vine, beefsteak and Angel Sweet™ plants, with the first harvest expected to be in seven weeks.
The new addition features a diffused glass ceiling, which evenly distributes sunlight throughout the greenhouse.
“The diffused glass is pretty incredible because it’s simple but so efficient,” explains Christopher Gill, director of greenhouse operations. “When sunlight hits it, it gets distributed at different angles to cover the greenhouse with more light.
“This means that plants are more exposed to sunlight and take in more CO2, which contributes to increased growth and better quality fruit year round. Anywhere you stand in the greenhouse, you’ll never see your shadow.”
AUTOMATED HARVEST CARTS
Like Phase I, Phase II includes automated harvest carts for efficient and ergonomic harvesting, the use of recycled water and fertilizer, and a rainwater irrigation system.
With the new addition, Coldwater Farms will soon become a Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program-verified farm in recognition of SUNSET’s environmental initiatives.
Coldwater’s strategic location contributes to Sunset’s Green Grass Project™ by decreasing the amount of food miles and delivering fresh and flavourful product to the Midwest all year round.
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| Grow lights and curtains assist with year-round production. |
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