Monique Bijlaard

Monique Bijlaard is a Researcher at Wageningen University & Research specializing in sustainable greenhouse horticulture. Her work integrates engineering, data science, and crop physiology to develop energy-efficient cultivation systems, with active projects through 2026 focusing on resource optimization and technological innovation in agricultural production.

Her research spans critical areas of modern horticulture:

• Greenhouse automation using sensor networks and AI-driven decision systems
• Energy reduction via low-e glass/screens and optimized lighting spectra
• Irrigation management and plant density optimization for diverse crops
• Computer vision applications for real-time crop monitoring
• Sustainable production of tomatoes, berries, courgettes, and ornamentals

This multidisciplinary approach addresses climate challenges while maintaining productivity.

Recent publications demonstrate leadership in autonomous greenhouse challenges and emission-free growing systems. Her work on dwarf tomato cultivation showcases multi-sensor feedback algorithms, while BEST-kas studies prove 20%+ energy savings in courgette/berry production. Spathiphyllum research reveals how light spectra manipulation enables carbon-neutral cultivation, establishing clear trends toward technology-driven resource efficiency across all crop systems.

Monique leads two major LVVN-funded projects: 'Vergelijking low-ɛ glas en low-ɛ schermen' (2025-2026) quantifying energy savings from advanced glazing materials, and 'Zomerteelt in de WinterlichtKas' (2021-2022) developing CO₂-limited summer cultivation protocols. These initiatives translate academic research into practical industry solutions for energy-intensive horticulture.

She collaborates extensively with Fieldlab Vertical Farming partners including Delphy Improvement Centre, Logiqs, Vertify, and Philips Horticulture LED Solutions. Her work within Wageningen's Greenhouse Horticulture business unit ensures direct industry implementation through demonstration facilities and joint cultivation trials across the Netherlands.