Greenhouse
Overview of the Greenhouse
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is more durable and cost-effective than glass. It can also retain heat more efficiently and provide protection from harmful UV rays. Polycarbonate is flexible and can be more easily shaped to the specific structural requirements of a Greenhouse.
Frame Material:
The two primary frame materials used in commercial operations are metal and wood, which each have their own respective subcategories.
Metal frame material has a greater initial cost but is far less susceptible to damage and will generally last longer than wooden materials.
Temperature Controls
Properly regulated temperatures give greenhouse farmers the ability to grow quality crops in virtually any climate. Thermostats and heat sensors are essential for maintaining optimal growing conditions and preventing plant stress. Heaters powered by natural gas or propane can be easily regulated with proper controls.
Electronic thermostats have been widely adopted for use in commercial greenhouses. They can be integrated with heating and cooling systems and even automated to provide immediate adjustments to the indoor climate.
Irrigation
Most commercial greenhouses use overhead sprinklers or drip irrigation systems to provide water to their plants. These irrigation methods can be automated for consistent, regular watering or even managed by an artificial intelligence (AI) software to provide precise amounts of water exactly when plants need it.
Lighting
Lighting considerations are important for commercial greenhouse growers. Many commercial greenhouses are now relying on LED grow lights to provide extra illumination. LED grow lights are energy efficient, long-lasting, and have a flexible light spectrum that can be adjusted to the tastes of particular greenhouse crops.
HVAC Systems
A quality HVAC system helps to regulate temperature and airflow in a greenhouse building. These systems can be installed as a unit or separated into individual components of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Flooring
Flooring isn’t necessarily vital for greenhouses, but it can make a noticeable difference in pest control, weed growth, and insulation. The right flooring can also provide extra support to employees working on their feet.
- Double-atrium roof vents
- Front-wall glass
- 8mm twin-wall polycarbonate roof covering
- Powder-coated exterior extrusions
- EDDG (Exterior Drop-Down Guillotine) side vent
- Gas unit heaters
- Automatic heat retention/shade system (slope-flat-slope, 50% heat retention/50% shade)
- Automatic environmental control and weather station
- Automatic sliding doors
- Decorative knee wall
Next steps
A detailed greenhouse financial model should be developed using current seedling market prices, utility costs, and demand forecasts. Collaboration with experienced greenhouse suppliers is recommended to ensure accurate cost and revenue estimates.