HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS FOR GREENHOUSES

Here we will guide you on how to properly choose equipment for cultivating different plants.

We'll discuss the most common and tested hydroponic equipment and the plants suitable for each system. Each plant type has specific growth requirements. In this section, you'll discover why it's crucial to decide precisely what you want to cultivate.

Hydroponics refers to growing plants in a nutrient-rich solution, bypassing the need for soil.

MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION WHEN CHOOSING HYDROPONIC SYSTEMS 

To ensure safe cultivation and oversee all procedures, specialized systems are utilized. These systems enable plants to be positioned in substrates while also monitoring watering and the surrounding microclimate.

Different plants have unique growing needs. As a result, there are distinct systems tailored for each type of crop. We've put together a summary of the main systems that are ideal for cultivating popular greenhouse plants.

 

TOMATOES

 

CUCUMBERS

 

LEAFY GREENS

 

STRAWBERRIES

 

ROSES

HYDROPONIC BENCHES

Гидропонные столы – это универсальные стеллажи. Их используют для выращивания рассады, горшечных растений, салата или клубники.

There are two primary types of hydroponic tables: stationary and rolling.

Stationary tables are commonly used for showcasing plants, retail in garden stores, in farmer's greenhouses, and green chambers. One of their main benefits is that they are more affordable than movable tables due to their simpler design. Additionally, they offer the flexibility to be shifted around when required.

Rolling tables are tailored greenhouse shelving systems. They are customized to match your greenhouse's dimensions, maximizing space utilization: they offer up to 90% of growing space, reserving the remaining 10% for pathways. The maneuverability is notably easy – a table spanning 30-40 meters can be moved effortlessly with just a finger to facilitate an access route.

Growing on concrete floor 

Just as with the tables, a concrete base is used for growing flowers in pots and young plants.

In Europe, the approach of automated planting and harvesting is widely adopted. Growing seedlings is considered a distinct business line there. Many greenhouse enterprises prefer sourcing their seedlings from companies that specialize in their cultivation, rather than producing them internally. The robust logistic and service systems in Europe support this model. For tasks such as comprehensive greenhouse cleaning or washing of the premises, there are companies that specialize in just that, making it more efficient and convenient for greenhouse owners to outsource these services.

In most countries, few specialized companies exist, and the logistical framework is underdeveloped. Moreover, the service quality often doesn't meet standards. Therefore, many local greenhouse operators opt to cultivate seedlings on their own to maintain complete oversight and achieve the results they aim for.

When considering this option, it's best to employ concrete flood floors as a dual-purpose seedling section. The approach involves growing seedlings and, once they are matured, utilizing the same space to place trays and cultivate plants throughout the entire greenhouse area.

It's essential to ensure the quality of the concrete pour – it must be impeccable.

Consider implementing automation for plant placement.

Given the importance of accurate and prompt plant placement, relying on manual processes is not the most efficient approach. In a cost comparison between concrete floors with all the essential equipment and retractable tables, the latter frequently offers a more economical solution.

Automated

lettuce line

Automated lettuce growing systems are the cutting-edge solution for cultivating lettuce and other greens, maximizing yield outcomes.

Lettuce lines are versatile, allowing for the cultivation of not only lettuce but also herbs like dill, parsley, basil, and lemon balm. Plus, this method minimizes the need for labor.

The crops are cultivated without the use of chemicals. You can plan to harvest them every day in an uninterrupted cycle.

Hanging growing gutters

In hanging trays, crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, eggplants, and strawberries are cultivated. These trays ensure an optimal microclimate for plant growth.

In Europe, the trend leans towards automation for both planting and harvesting. Seedling cultivation there is a separate industry altogether. Many greenhouse operations prefer to source their seedlings from expert companies instead of growing them internally. With a robust logistics and service system in place, there are dedicated firms for tasks like thorough greenhouse cleaning or large-scale washing. This makes it more efficient and convenient for greenhouse owners to rely on specialized services.

Hanging gutters are individually extended along the length of the greenhouse using a specialized molding machine. This process aims to minimize the presence of connecting seams. Having a minimal number or even no connecting seams facilitates unrestricted drainage of water not absorbed by the plants. Through a closed-cycle system, this water undergoes purification and is subsequently reused for irrigation. Consequently, this approach leads to reduced expenses for water and mineral fertilizers.

It's worth mentioning that previously, similar gutters used for cultivating vegetables were positioned on stands. Today, steel supports under the trays are predominantly utilized for the cultivation of gerberas and roses.

Growing in soil 

Growing crops in a soil-based greenhouse can be a cost-effective choice if you want to minimize your initial investments. You can cultivate a variety of crops while providing protection from frost, wind, hail, and excessive sunlight. Additionally, you have the option to later incorporate the required hydroponic systems into the greenhouse setup.

Chrysanthemums and bulbous plants like tulips and onions are usually cultivated in soil. They can be planted either directly in the ground or in containers and/or on racks to facilitate care and harvest.

Floating rafts

in basin

You can think of floating rafts as the "precursors" to automated salad lines and aquaponics.

According to this system, seedlings are placed in white plastic trays and floated in a basin or artificial pond The trays rest on the water's surface, making them easily movable with minimal effort. After each harvest, new crops are introduced into the basins.

This system is becoming less common for cultivating lightweight crops such as leafy lettuce, mint, basil, and similar plants due to the higher risk of infections and algae growth. Instead, salad lines or aquaponic systems are increasingly preferred for growing lettuce and fish together, as fish help consume potentially harmful substances.

In our view, utilizing this system for the cultivation of heavier crops like cabbage or celery, or when soil-based cultivation is not preferred, can be highly beneficial.

You may come across various offers for "new" systems, such as mobile containers or multi-tier trays.

Nevertheless, these "innovations" are not yet widely used in greenhouses. Any of the mentioned types is a good solution; the key is to understand your goal and what suits you best.

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