Limex’s tray washers – as conditions for succsefull forest seedling growing
Latvia is one of the most forest-rich countries in Europe. The state forest company, Latvijas Valsts Meži (A/S LVM), in 2025 planted almost 30 millions of young trees from its own nurseries. One major challenge is the pine weevil, which feeds on young scots pine and norway spruce trees and can destroy large parts of the plantations. To prevent this damage, AS LVM Strenci nursery applies a protective layer of glue and sand to the young seedlings, before planting them in the forest it is called Conniflex. Good for the trees, but a challenge for the growing trays. The sticky remedy adheres stubbornly to the surface, making it difficult to efficiently reuse the trays. Limex developed a tray washer that cleans the trays thoroughly.
No chemical pest control and clean trays
LVM aims to minimize environmental impact and therefore tries to avoid chemical pest control in the forest. That’s why they started using Conniflex, a sticky film of glue and sand that prevents the pine weevil from finding a suitable spot to feed on. This coating is very effective, but it caused problems in the automated de-stacking, filling and seeding process of the trays. Coniflex residues built up, disrupted the tray line operation, and increased the risk of mold growth. LVM Strenci nursery sought a sustainable and reliable solution and turned to Limex.
Results with an eye for the environment
The first two Limex tray washers remove peat, Conniflex residues, liverwort spores, and weed seeds from the trays without using chemical additives. = Filters and pumps ensure the washing water can be reused for a long time. With Limex’s tray washers, LVM chooses quality, continuity, and sustainability. The trays can be reused effortlessly in the nursery without risk of disruption or contamination. A clean start for every tree that will soon grow into the forest. And a great example of how smart technology contributes to future-proof forestry.
Below are quotes from Mr. Janis Ziedins of the Strenci nursery.
How did you find Limex?
Our story with Limex began in 2022 when, during an experience trip, we visited the Stora Enso nursery in Nässjö, Sweden. There we saw that the Limex tray washer was integrated into the seedling treatment process, and its performance seemed to meet expectations. To make sure this was not a coincidence, we wanted to have confirmation, and as a good recommendation, it came from seedling growers who had four of this type of machine – Svenska Skogsplantor.
How did you experience the sales process?
Because it was a new experience for both parties, it took us quite a long period of time to achieve the goal. But we highly appreciate the great job and effort from Limex involved in the sales process. Both companies succeeded in the sales process based on mutual trust, despite all obstacles. During this
project we established a strong partnership, and we are more than sure it will last in the future.
What is your experience with the tray washers now installed?
Within the project between Limex and A/S LVM, new washing machines have been installed in two LVM Seeds and Plant Nurseries – Strenči and Mezvidi. After one year of operation, we can say that we are satisfied with how both units perform. The equipment works reliably and has significantly
improved work efficiency. The system is easy to use, and technical support from Limex has been fast and professional. Machine sustainability depends on how well the maintenance is performed, and if we talk about the Limex version HDVS-T1802, it is not so hard to do.
