Sphaxx® supports Klasmann-Deilmann’s strategic focus on substrate sustainability and raw material innovation
Over the past twenty years, the company has adopted a clear strategic direction in this area. As the world’s leading manufacturer in the substrate sector, it is increasingly focusing on renewable raw materials and peat alternatives. Innovation is an integral part of this transition, ensuring optimal crop safety and product quality well into the future. Sphaxx is now Klasmann-Deilmann’s latest development, enabling the supply of very pure Sphagnum moss from greenhouse cultivation.
The key difference from the Sphagnum moss typically grown in natural peatlands is that Sphaxx is grown and processed in greenhouses under controlled conditions. This results in a very high degree of homogeneity and purity, as well as guaranteed year-round availability, short transport distances and a low environmental footprint. Due to high demand for the product, production capacity is currently being expanded. Last year, Klasmann-Deilmann invested in a 9.5-hectare expansion of its growing area.
Sphaxx is ideal for the propagation and cultivation of epiphytes, currently with a focus on Phalaenopsis and bromeliads. The cultivation of epiphytes places high demands on the substrate. Thanks to its homogeneous structure and high water-holding capacity, Sphaxx provides ideal support for root and plant development.
RHP certification as proof of quality
RHP certification, which was awarded for the first time to a sphagnum product in early 2026, confirms the quality and reliability of this innovative approach. Both the production process and the physical, chemical and phytosanitary properties are subjected to intensive testing. This underscores that Sphaxx represents a sustainable alternative for the cultivation of orchids and bromeliads and meets the highest standards in terms of crop safety and consistency.
In parallel with the development of Sphaxx, Klasmann-Deilmann has invested in a broader portfolio of substrate constituents derived from renewable resources such as wood fibres, green compost, bark and coir. This knowledge and the new production infrastructure form the basis for the further development of Sphaxx and its integration into existing cultivation systems. The combination of material expertise and practical application experience of the product developers across a wide variety of cultivation methods ensures that this innovation is precisely tailored to the needs of nurseries.
Future prospects for plant cultivation
With Sphaxx, Klasmann-Deilmann is once again taking a significant step forward in the field of more sustainable substrates. This substrate, sourced from regional cultivation, offers a clean, sustainable alternative to traditional peat or sphagnum moss sourced from natural peat bogs. It is therefore fully in line with the trend towards avoiding peat and adopting circular cultivation systems.
By combining innovation with scalability, certification and high practical utility, Klasmann-Deilmann demonstrates that the horticulture of the future can rely on new raw materials. Sphaxx will play a key role in this. With Sphaxx, Klasmann-Deilmann offers growers a new raw material that guarantees quality, sustainability and security of supply.
Author: Anita Bassie | ANIQ Projectorganisatie B.V.
