Sphaxx supports the strategic shift toward greater sustainability
Over the past twenty years, Klasmann-Deilmann has charted a clear strategic course toward sustainability and raw material innovation. The global leader in the growing media sector is increasingly focusing on renewable raw materials and alternatives to peat. In this transition, innovation is an integral part of ensuring maximum cultivation reliability and product quality. Sphaxx® is the controlled solution to the demand for sphagnum.
The key difference from sphagnum, which comes from natural bogs, is that Sphaxx is grown in greenhouses under controlled conditions and then processed. This results in consistent and uniform quality, high purity, reliable availability, short transport distances, and a low environmental impact. Due to the long growing season and high demand for the product, scaling up production capacity remains a key challenge. Last year, Klasmann-Deilmann invested in an expansion of 9.5 hectares.
Applications in Various Crops
Sphaxx® is ideally suited for the propagation of epiphytes, with the current focus on its use with Phalaenopsis and bromeliads. These crops are not heated and place high demands on uniformity, hygiene, and water management. Thanks to its stable structure and high water-holding capacity, Sphaxx® supports uniform germination and root development.
RHP certification as proof of quality
The RHP certification in early 2026 demonstrates that this approach is innovative and reliable. For the first time, a sphagnum product has been certified according to this strict international standard. To this end, both the production process and the physical, chemical, and phytosanitary properties were tested. This underscores that Sphaxx® is a sustainable alternative and meets the highest standards for cultivation reliability and consistency.
Broad Innovation Base in Raw Materials
In parallel with the development of Sphaxx®, Klasmann-Deilmann has invested in a broader portfolio of renewable raw materials such as wood fibres, compost, bark, and coco. The resulting knowledge, including the infrastructure, forms the foundation upon which Sphaxx® is further developed and integrated into substrate solutions. The combination of material expertise and practical applications—such as cuttings, propagation systems, and propagation concepts – ensures that the innovation is directly tailored to the needs of nurseries.
Future Prospects for Propagation
With Sphaxx®, Klasmann-Deilmann is taking a significant step forward in the substrate market. The product offers a local, sustainable, and pure alternative to traditional peat or sphagnum from raised bogs. It fits into the broader movement toward peat reduction and circular cultivation systems.
By combining innovation with scalability, certification, and practical application, Klasmann-Deilmann demonstrates that the propagation of the future requires new raw materials. Sphaxx® can play a key role in this. With Sphaxx®, Klasmann-Deilmann relieves horticultural businesses of concerns regarding raw materials, quality, and sustainability, offering the reliability they can count on.
Author: Anita Bassie | ANIQ Projectorganisatie B.V.
