Growing Organic Produce in Greenhouses

Post on 13-Apr-2017

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Transcript of Growing Organic Produce in Greenhouses

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

We’re here tohelp you grow!

For further questions contact us at:ggsstructures.comsales@ggsstructures.com

(905) 562-7341