Whole Leaf

First and second semi-closed greenhouse with MGS in the world

Features
Client: Whole Leaf
Start construction: Phase 1 in 2016 & Phase 2 in 2018
Crop(s): Leafy Greens
Location: Alberta, Canada
Size: 56.000 m2

Innovative solutions

Technologies implemented in this project: 

  • First and second semi-closed greenhouse with MGS in the world.
  • Energy and CO2 provided by CHP.
  • Cold winters and hot summers, but greenhouse climate remains stable.

Rindi Bristol - Senior Director Sales of Whole Leaf

We've been set up to grow consistent product no matter what the outside temperature is. It's all about the same consistent quality.

Project description

Whole Leaf operates a 5 hectare semi-closed ModulAIR greenhouse in Coaldale, Alberta, dedicated to growing premium, chemical-free leafy greens. Built in 2017 and expanded with a second phase in 2018, it was the first and second semi-closed greenhouse with MGS (Mobile Gully System) technology in the world, developed in close collaboration with Van der Hoeven. Despite Alberta's cold winters and hot summers, the greenhouse maintains a stable internal climate year-round, thanks to advanced climate systems.

As Canada's largest lettuce greenhouse, it produces up to 24 million heads annually, supplying major grocery and food service chains such as Wendy's Canada. Each head is grown hydroponically using just 1.5 litres of water, a fraction compared to open-field farming, and benefits from CO2 and energy supplied by a CHP (Combined Heat and Power) system, which recycles waste heat and CO2 to boost growth while reducing emissions.

With minimal human handling and precise automation, Whole Leaf delivers ultra-clean, long-lasting lettuce daily, between 40.000 and 50.000 heads. Together with Van der Hoeven, Whole Leaf continues to refine crop characteristics and improve system efficiency, setting a new standard for sustainable horticulture in North America.

Lettuce production at Coaldale, Alberta

Climate chamber

Semi-closed ModulAIR greenhouse

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Daan Mansveld Greenhouse Expert Crop solutions Van Der Hoeven

Daan
Mansveld

Sales Manager