Glasshouses, also known as greenhouses or hothouses, are structures used for growing crops that provide a controlled environment for plant growth. They are typically made of glass or transparent materials that allow sunlight to enter while trapping heat inside. Glasshouse growing is simply the production of crops in these glasshouses.
Supplemental lighting allows for an extended growing season by providing additional light during periods of low natural light levels. This can be particularly beneficial in regions with shorter growing seasons.
By providing optimal lighting conditions, supplemental lighting can increase crop yields and improve crop quality, resulting in more consistent and higher quality produce.
Supplemental lighting allows for greater flexibility in crop selection, enabling the cultivation of crops that may not be able to grow in a particular region or season.
The use of LED lighting in glasshouses is a more energy-efficient option than traditional lighting sources such as High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lamps, resulting in lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact. LED lighting is up to 60% more energy efficient than HPS lighting, resulting in significant energy savings and lower operating costs.
LED lighting emits a spectrum of light that can be specifically tailored to meet the needs of different crops, resulting in improved crop quality and consistency.
LED luminaires have a much longer lifespan than HPS lighting, reducing the need for frequent replacement which in turn leads to lower maintenance costs.
HPS lighting produces a significant amount of heat, which can be detrimental to plant growth and can increase the need for additional cooling systems. LED lighting produces much less heat, reducing the need for additional cooling and ventilation systems.
The use of supplemental lighting in glasshouses can provide numerous benefits, including an extended growing season, increased crop yields and quality, and greater flexibility in crop selection. Switching from HPS to LED lighting can further enhance these benefits by increasing energy efficiency, improving crop quality, and reducing maintenance costs.
By utilizing innovative technologies such as Vertically Urban’s Odyssey Range, glasshouses can provide a sustainable and efficient solution for crop production, promoting food security and sustainable development.
