Jan-Feb 2022 edition of Gulf Agriculture magazine

Page 35

Greenhouses

GROWING IN PLACES WITH EXCEPTIONALLY HIGH TEMPERATURES AND WATER-SCARCITY

I

n the Middle East, many crops are grown in plastic tunnel-shaped greenhouses and net greenhouses. When it comes to net greenhouses, it is especially important to strive for proper monitoring of what happens in the greenhouse during the cultivation process. This can then be used to actively steer (or adjust) the crop. Data collection and monitoring in a clear dashboard, for example via LetsGrow.com, offer an easy solution and make optimal cultivation possible. In plastic greenhouses, it is already easier to create an optimum climate with the help of a climate computer and the right angle of approach for cultivation. The principles of Plant Empowerment can be the guiding principle here towards a resilient crop. But for both of these types of greenhouses, it can be too hot in the summer months. A climate-controlled glass greenhouse offers solutions In this case, one can grow more accurately in a glass greenhouse. This is because the temperature

January-February 2022

in a glass greenhouse can be controlled more precisely, by cooling the air in the greenhouse while using for example a Pad & Fan system. In the Pad & Fan system, the dry air from the outside is humidified via a Pad wall, which removes the heat from the air. The air cools down and is then blown into the greenhouse. The result is a cooler greenhouse and a more optimal growing climate for the plant. For this reason, the production per m2 in glass greenhouses can be three times higher than in a plastic tunnel greenhouse. The best type of greenhouse and de technologies that you need for optimal growth depends on several factors. For example, the location of the greenhouse or what crop you want to grow. A smart process computer that gives you insights Ultimately, it all depends on gaining the right knowledge combined with the best suitable technologies for your greenhouses. Whether you are an experienced grower or not. Ultimately, it starts with

understanding what is happening in the greenhouse. Especially if there is little cultivation experience, a process computer combined with the right training will make sure that you get that information and that you know how to interpret it. Also, an easy-to-understand dashboard that one can also easily edit and modify to one's liking, contributes immensely to a better understanding of the activities in the greenhouse. For example, how much water is used and what the quality of this water is, by looking at the PH value or by measuring how much sunlight enters the greenhouse. A user-friendly system that tells you exactly what is happening in the greenhouse and automatically responds to, is a good solution for any type of greenhouse. For many years Hoogendoorn Growth Management has been providing solutions and training for growers of any kind and for any type of greenhouse around the world. For more information, visit www.hoogendoorn.nl

www.gulfagriculture.com | Gulf Agriculture

33


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.