Propagation of young plants is the basis for optimal cultivation results. High demands are placed on substrates, especially during the propagation phase. Uniformity and the degree of water retention are critical success factors.

Growers are increasingly focusing on desired crop development; this is partly determined by the variety that is selected, and the desired plant type. Factors that influence the choice of variety include the plant size, the required vine development with tomatoes or whether crops are grown under natural or grow lights. Propagators steer how crop variety is propagated on the basis of climate and irrigation strategy. The choice of blocks largely determines the irrigation strategy, which ultimately yields the type of plant required by the grower. Grodan offers a wide range of blocks and plugs that yield uniform plants under various cultivation conditions.