Utilise CO2 more effectively with diffuse coating

A diffuse coating on the greenhouse roof provides a better growth environment and has a beneficial effect on the levels of CO2 in the greenhouse. These are the results of research done by Plant Lighting at two Dutch pepper growers.

"In addition to a better distribution of light and less heat stress, the grower can keep his windows closed longer, reducing CO2 escaping,” summarizes researcher Govert Trouwborst of research agency Plant Lighting.

Dark spots
Diffused light is light that falls on all sides of the crop because it is scattered or broken. With normal glass, the light level in the greenhouse is not very even, resulting in both dark and hot spots, places that are either too shadowy or too hot.

With diffuse light, obtained by special glass or a coating on traditional glass, the horizontal distribution of light in the greenhouse is much better. That makes for a better growth environment.

Venting
Normally, growers try to bring down temperatures in greenhouse hot spots by venting. The side effect of this is that both the CO2 content and the moisture decrease.

"A coating will cause some light loss, but that shouldn’t be a problem if it allows you to keep more CO2 in the greenhouse. That does require the courage to refrain from venting too much at such moments. You have to learn how to work with it," says Trouwborst.

Source: Nieuwe Oogst