CosMic Plants Is First Orchid Grower in Canada to Receive MPS-ABC Certificate
June 8, 2023 
Photo: CosMic Plants
CosMic Plants, an Ontario-based grower of phalaenopsis orchids, started the process of MPS-ABC environmental certification in 2022. Recently, CosMic Plants obtained MPS-A as its first qualification.
The company was founded by brothers Mike and Neil van Steekelenburg 19 years ago, when they immigrated from Westland, The Netherlands to Niagara, Canada. With a devoted team of employees, they established a name and reputation for quality orchids in two pot-sizes and in various product categories and concepts.
To start with MPS-ABC, the company did not have to change its processes too much. They had a feeling that their practices and data collection would already suit the MPS platform for a large part. That proved to be true. Their grower, Mariah Hendriksen, who was tasked with the project to become MPS certified, has been diligent and meticulous with the data input and staying on track with the growing practices. Other than some administrational matters, nothing changed.
“With MPS-ABC we felt supported from the start,” says Mike van Steekelenburg. “Their online platform, support, and service make the certification achievable in a step-by-step process that does not overwhelm.”
Sustainability Efforts
The company’s integrated pest management (IPM) program is 99% chemical free. It uses beneficial insects, nematodes, and BTs and controls the greenhouse environment in such a way that plants are strong, and pests and diseases do not thrive. Chemicals are used as a last resort and only for the odd hot spot treatment. The company also uses natural gas as a heat source for high efficiency boilers, and the exhaust CO2 is cooled down by economizers and then used in the greenhouses to enhance growth.
“CosMic Plants is an example of a company where growing high-quality products is combined with efforts towards a more sustainable production,” says Arthij van der Veer, Area Manager at MPS. “We are happy that they have chosen MPS-ABC and we look forward to further extending the cooperation in the near future.
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