Wageningen UR improving the use of screens in gerbera cultivation
The researchers of Wageningen UR horticulture tested the use of screens in a Gerbera greenhouse. When closing the screens by night, the temperature underneath the screens stays the same. Besides that, it seems to handle a higher relative level of humidification without causing condensation. The absolute level of humidity in the greenhouse shows if there is a balance between evaporation and moister discharge.
Regulating temperature and moister
If the level of humidity in the greenhouse air rises, the discharge of moister needs to increase too. This can be achieved by additional ventilation above the screens. If this does not give the desired result, growers can create an opening between the upper screens. This will prevent cold spots and will discharge the moister through the opening between the screens.
Vertical fins under the screens will keep the balance between temperature and moister.
Growing efficiently without botrytis
Regulating temperature and moister in this way enables growers to cultivate efficiently and save energy without increasing botrytis problems. It is only necessary to invest in dehumidification if the value of screen isolation increases or if botrytis needs to be reduced further.
Bron: Wageningen UR