In an environment dominated by traditional crops, Leciel’s radish venture represents a bold step forward. By converting former cannabis greenhouses into radish shelters, the company is demonstrating innovation in agricultural practices.
In the green expanses of Mirabel, Quebec, a quiet revolution is taking place. Nestled among fields once dedicated to cannabis cultivation, family-run Leciel is ushering in a new era in Quebec’s agricultural landscape. Their mission? To redefine radishes.
For many years, radishes remained on the sidelines of Quebec cuisine, relegated to the periphery of salad bowls and raw food plates. But within the confines of Leciel’s climate-controlled greenhouse complex, these once-forgotten vegetables are experiencing a renaissance.
“It’s all about creating the right environment,” explains Steve Bertrand, Leciel’s visionary CEO. “With the ability to regulate temperature and humidity, our greenhouses provide ideal conditions for growing radishes year-round.”
Indeed, the transformation is simply remarkable. Where hemp once flourished there is now a vast expanse of sand, carefully tended to meet the delicate needs of radish plants. But why sand, you ask? According to Bertrand, it’s a matter of practicality.
“The sandy soil provides unparalleled cleanliness,” he notes, holding freshly picked radishes in his hands. “And by adding organic matter like coir, we ensure optimal water retention for sustainable root development.”
But it’s not just the soil that makes Leciel’s radishes stand out. In the controlled microclimate of the greenhouse, temperature fluctuations are a thing of the past. Unlike their field-grown cousins, which can become bitter in the sweltering heat of Quebec summers, Leciel’s radishes remain consistently crisp and soft.
“This is a game changer,” Bertrand enthuses. “By maintaining temperatures between 13 and 17°C, we maintain the delicate balance of sweetness and crunch that defines the perfect radish.”
And consumers notice it. Since their debut on grocery store shelves last fall, Leciel’s greenhouse-grown radishes have captured the tastes of Quebec consumers, sparking a surge in sales that shows no signs of slowing down.
But for Bertrand and his team this is just the beginning. Armed with a passion for innovation and a commitment to sustainability, they are on a mission to change Quebec’s agricultural landscape, one radish at a time.
As Leciel’s greenhouse radishes continue to win over consumers and revolutionize Quebec’s agricultural sector, it is clear that the future is ripe for new opportunities. Harnessing the power of technology and using eco-friendly methods, Leciel proves that even the humblest vegetables can inspire a culinary revolution.
