growing organic produce in greenhouses
TRANSCRIPT
Growing OrganicProduce in
Greenhouses
The type of structure used is dependent on long term goals and budget
Coldframe and Freestanding greenhouses have a lower capital cost
Gutter Connected greenhouses provide a better environment due to larger air volume and allows for expansion
Planning Considerations
Structures:
Make sure climate is a factor when choosing the best ventilation option for your greenhouse
Fans and pads keep plants from being stressed
HVF (HAF) fans aid in good air circulation
Increased gutter height adds larger air volume and better humidity control for healthy plants
Ventilation:
Where possible grow on benches to maximize efficient space usage
Growing on benches can provide better air flow and heat convection
Benches can be either stationary or rolling
A variety of options available to suit growing needs from expanded metal covering, ebb and flood trays to irrigation troughs
Extremely durable compared to wooden benches
Benches:
Hydronic heat provides better humidity control and less fungal problems
Under bench heating provides uniform temperatures and reduces fuel costs
Investing in a high efficiency condensing boiler will result in more long term savings
Heating Systems:
Consider a dehumidification unit depending on your climate
Dehumidification:
Automated controls (computer)
Curtain systems Irrigation systems
All these help to ensure a consistent and uniform crop.
Additional Features:
A clean operation means less battle with insects
Keep weeds under control outside of the greenhouse to prevent external pests
Happy and healthy plants will grow faster and have better resistance to pests and disease
Keep It Clean:
There are many resources available to new growers:
Online-learning University agricultural
programs USDA technical assistance
programs
Resources for New Growers:
Future Expansion: It’s always important to look to
the future – where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
How will you expand Will you need water storage for
irrigation run-off Future shipping and receiving
needs Future labor availability Future sales opportunities
Structure Options
Excellent structure for first time growers as well as large scale production
Easy to build on site, add-ons can be use to extend length
Variety of covering options available from poly to shade cloth
High quality steel arches provide long lasting protection from rust and corrosion
Coldframe Structures
Key Features:
Suitable for use in all climates Ideal for growers with multiple
crops Economical growing space Side and double ridge vents allow
natural air flow Sloped arch optimizes usable
space
Freestanding Greenhouses
Key Features:
Versatile greenhouse, ideal for vegetable crops
Arched gothic peak provides condensation control
Most efficient airflow provided by gutter vents and other natural ventilation
Most economical option for large scale growers
Gutter Connected Greenhouses
Key Features:
Keep pests out and reduce pesticide use
Keep biologicals inside Roof vent screens allow ventilation
while limiting biologicals movement Easy installation and maintenance Can be added to side-walls and
lean-to structures
Special Features: Insect Screening
Key Features:
Benefits of USDA Organic Certification
One of the largest growing agricultural segments
Receive premium prices for produce Access local, regional, and international markets Additional access to funding and technical
assistance programs Protect natural resources Support local economies
USDA Organic Certification
