Commercial Greenhouses - Types and Benefits

Greenhouses have been used for centuries to grow plants, but as technology advances, modern commercial greenhouses are becoming increasingly popular. In this article, we will explore the benefits of commercial greenhouses, the various types available, and their components.

Types of Commercial Greenhouses

There are several types of commercial greenhouses available; each designed to suit specific growing needs. Some of the most common types include:

Venlo Type Glass Greenhouse

The Venlo type glass greenhouse is a popular design used in commercial greenhouse agriculture. The Venlo type greenhouse is characterized by its high vertical walls, a peaked roof with a ridge along the center, and a grid-like structure of aluminum or steel beams. The roof is typically made of glass or polycarbonate panels, while the walls are often made of glass or polycarbonate sheets supported by the structural framework.

One of the key advantages of the Venlo type greenhouse is its efficient use of natural light. The peaked roof and vertical walls allow for maximum exposure to sunlight throughout the day, which is essential for plant growth. The structural framework also provides excellent ventilation, which is important for controlling temperature and humidity levels inside the greenhouse.

The Venlo type greenhouse is commonly used for growing a wide range of crops, including vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. It is especially popular for growing high-value crops like tomatoes and peppers, which require a controlled environment to thrive.

Overall, the Venlo type greenhouse is a highly efficient and effective design for commercial greenhouse agriculture, providing optimal growing conditions for a wide range of crops.

Polycarbonate Sheet Greenhouse

A polycarbonate sheet greenhouse is a type of greenhouse that uses polycarbonate sheets instead of glass for the walls and/or roof. Polycarbonate sheets are a lightweight, durable, and shatter-resistant alternative to traditional glass panels.

Polycarbonate sheets are made from a thermoplastic material that is highly resistant to impact, weathering, and UV radiation. They are available in different thicknesses and colors, and can be either clear or opaque. Clear polycarbonate sheets allow for maximum sunlight penetration, while opaque sheets can provide shade and privacy.

One of the main advantages of a polycarbonate sheet greenhouse is its high resistance to impact and shattering. This makes it a safer option for areas prone to severe weather conditions such as hail, strong winds or snowstorms. Additionally, polycarbonate sheets offer good insulation properties, which can help reduce heating costs during the colder months.

Polycarbonate sheet greenhouses can be constructed in a variety of designs, including freestanding or attached to a building. The framework can be made of different materials, such as aluminum or galvanized steel, and can be customized to fit specific growing needs.

Polycarbonate sheet greenhouses are often used for growing a variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers. They are especially popular for growing plants that require a lot of sunlight, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers.

In summary, a polycarbonate sheet greenhouse is a durable and cost-effective option for commercial or residential greenhouse agriculture. Its high resistance to impact and weather conditions, coupled with its insulation properties, makes it a popular choice for growers worldwide.

Multi-Span Plastic Film Greenhouse

A multi-span plastic film greenhouse is a type of greenhouse that uses a series of connected arches or spans covered with plastic film to create a protected environment for growing plants. The plastic film is typically made from polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is stretched tightly over the arches to create a durable and weather-resistant cover.

Multi-span plastic film greenhouses are popular for their cost-effectiveness and ease of construction. They are typically less expensive to build and maintain than other types of greenhouse structures, such as glass or polycarbonate sheet greenhouses. They are also relatively easy to assemble and disassemble, making them a good option for temporary or seasonal use.

The design of a multi-span plastic film greenhouse allows for maximum use of space and flexibility in growing different crops. The arches are spaced at regular intervals, typically ranging from 3 to 8 meters apart, and can be connected to create a series of bays or compartments for different crops. The plastic film cover allows for good light transmission, while also providing good insulation and protection from weather elements.

One of the challenges of a multi-span plastic film greenhouse is its susceptibility to damage from wind, snow, and other weather events. Proper ventilation and drainage are important considerations when constructing a multi-span plastic film greenhouse to prevent damage from these elements.

Multi-span plastic film greenhouses are commonly used for growing a variety of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers. They are especially popular for growing plants that require a lot of space, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers.

Overall, a multi-span plastic film greenhouse is a cost-effective and versatile option for commercial or residential greenhouse agriculture. Its ease of construction and flexibility in growing different crops make it a popular choice for growers worldwide.

Galvanized Steel Structure Greenhouse

A greenhouse steel structure refers to the metal framework used to construct a greenhouse. Steel is a popular material for greenhouse structures because it is strong, durable, and resistant to weather elements. Steel structures can be used to build a wide range of greenhouse designs, including single-span and multi-span structures.

The steel used in greenhouse structures is typically galvanized, which means it has been coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. The galvanized steel is formed into various shapes, such as pipes or channels, which are then bolted or welded together to create the framework for the greenhouse.

One of the advantages of a steel greenhouse structure is its strength and durability. Steel can withstand high winds, heavy snow loads, and other weather events that may damage other types of greenhouse structures. Additionally, steel is a long-lasting material that requires little maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Another advantage of a steel greenhouse structure is its versatility. Steel structures can be customized to fit a variety of greenhouse designs and sizes, making it a good option for growers with different needs. The flexibility of steel also allows for easy modification and expansion of the greenhouse structure as needed.

One of the challenges of a steel greenhouse structure is its potential for heat loss. Steel is a good conductor of heat, which means it can transfer heat quickly from the inside of the greenhouse to the outside. Proper insulation and ventilation are important considerations when constructing a steel greenhouse to prevent heat loss and maintain a stable growing environment.

In summary, a greenhouse steel structure is a strong and durable option for commercial or residential greenhouse agriculture. Its versatility and low maintenance make it a popular choice for growers worldwide. However, proper insulation and ventilation must be considered to maintain a stable growing environment.

Commercial greenhouses are made up of several key components, including:

Frame - The frame provides the structure and support for the greenhouse. It can be made of various materials, including wood, aluminum, and steel.

Covering - The covering protects the plants from external elements and includes options like glass, polycarbonate, and polyethylene.

Heating and Cooling Systems - These systems are used to maintain optimal growing conditions, including temperature and humidity levels.

Ventilation Systems - These systems regulate airflow within the greenhouse and are essential for preventing mold, mildew, and other plant diseases.

Irrigation Systems - These systems provide water to the plants and can include drip irrigation, flood irrigation, or misting systems.

Benefits of Commercial Greenhouses

Commercial greenhouses offer several advantages over traditional outdoor farming. They provide an ideal growing environment for plants, allowing for year-round production, protection from pests and harsh weather conditions, and increased yields. Greenhouses also allow for precise control of the growing conditions, including temperature, humidity, and lighting, resulting in healthier and more consistent crops. Here are some of the significant benefits of commercial greenhouses:

1. Year-Round Production: One of the most significant benefits of commercial greenhouses is that they allow for year-round production. This means that farmers can grow crops throughout the year, regardless of the season or weather conditions outside. This not only increases the production and revenue of the farm but also provides consumers with fresh produce all year round.

2. Protection from Harsh Weather: Greenhouses provide a controlled environment, which protects plants from harsh weather conditions such as excessive heat, cold, wind, or rain. This protection ensures that crops can grow optimally, without being damaged by adverse weather conditions. As a result, farmers can produce higher quality crops with a lower risk of crop failure.

3. Pest and Disease Control: Greenhouses also offer excellent pest and disease control, as they create a physical barrier between plants and pests. Farmers can control the growing environment and minimize the risk of disease outbreaks by managing temperature, humidity, and ventilation. This not only reduces the use of pesticides but also minimizes the environmental impact on surrounding areas.

4. Increased Efficiency: Commercial greenhouses are designed to maximize space utilization and optimize growing conditions, resulting in increased efficiency in crop production. With the use of technology and automation, farmers can monitor and manage crops more efficiently, resulting in higher yields and reduced labor costs.

5. Sustainability: Greenhouses are an eco-friendly way of farming, as they allow farmers to grow crops with less water and fertilizer, reducing the impact on the environment. Furthermore, by reducing the need for transportation, commercial greenhouses reduce the carbon footprint associated with the production and distribution of food.

Conclusion

Commercial greenhouses are an essential tool for modern-day agriculture, providing a controlled environment for year-round plant growth and increased yields. With several types and components available, businesses can choose the ideal setup for their growing needs. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting, a commercial greenhouse can help take your farming operation to the next level.