Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a 'controlled environment' versus a standard greenhouse?
A standard greenhouse merely protects crops from extreme weather. A controlled environment utilizes sensors, software, and active HVAC systems to dictate precise levels of light, temperature, humidity, and CO2, regardless of external conditions.
Is polycarbonate always superior to glass?
No. While polycarbonate offers superior insulation and impact resistance, it degrades over time and allows less light transmission than horticultural glass. The choice depends entirely on geographic location, structural loads, and crop light requirements.
How much does a commercial heating system reduce profitability?
Heating is often the second largest operational expense after labor. Implementing thermal screens and utilizing waste heat from CHP (Combined Heat and Power) systems are vital to maintaining competitive profit margins.
What is Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD)?
VPD is the measure of the difference between the amount of moisture in the air and how much moisture the air can hold when saturated. It is the primary metric used by modern climate computers to control plant transpiration rates.
Can LEDs fully replace sunlight in a greenhouse?
Yes, but relying solely on LEDs makes the structure an indoor farm, not a greenhouse. In a greenhouse, LEDs are used as supplemental lighting to achieve the Daily Light Integral (DLI) target during winter or overcast days.
Why pump CO2 into a greenhouse?
Plants rapidly consume available CO2 in an enclosed space. By artificially raising the ambient CO2 concentration from 400 ppm to 800-1,000 ppm, operators can significantly accelerate photosynthesis and increase total crop yield.
How do thermal screens operate automatically?
They are driven by motorized rack-and-pinion systems integrated into the climate computer. The software analyzes external temperature, solar radiation, and internal heat loss algorithms to deploy or retract the screens in real-time.
Are active dehumidification units necessary?
For modern, highly sealed structures striving for maximum yield, yes. Passive venting releases valuable heat and CO2. Active dehumidification pulls moisture from the air while retaining the latent thermal energy.