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We often hear about grants and funding for Ukraine's recovery. But who exactly is providing the money, how much, and under what terms? Which programs are actually available?

We’ve gathered information on some funding programs that might be useful:

1. Netherlands Enterprise Agency under the Ukraine Partnership Facility (UPF) has announced a second round of grants with a budget of €32.5 million. This program provides non-repayable financial support for projects that include Dutch companies, with project sizes starting at €500,000. Applications are open from October 30, 2024, to January 30, 2025. Details:
   https://english.rvo.nl/subsidies-financing/upf?utm_uid=&utm_content=permissions_2147483648&utm_medium=email

2. EU for Ukraine Initiative – funding for infrastructure and business recovery in Ukraine. The program offers €100 million in technical assistance. More about the program and contacts:
   https://www.eib.org/en/press/all/2023-157-eib-approves-eu-for-ukraine-initiative-to-finance-ukraine-recovery-and-reconstruction-and-backs-transport-energy-and-business-investment-around-the-world?lang=uk

3. Ukraine Investment Framework (UIF) – a €50 billion EU support program over four years. UIF will support key sectors identified in the Ukraine Facility plan, such as energy, agriculture, logistics, critical materials, digital transformation, and green transition. Multiple sub-programs are expected within UIF. In October 2024, the European Commission launched the first call for proposals under UIF, focused on mobilizing investments for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, and modernization.
  https://neighbourhood-enlargement.ec.europa.eu/european-neighbourhood-policy/countries-region/ukraine/ukraine-facility_en?prefLang=uk

4. World Bank RISE Program under UIF – $593 million to support private sector development in Ukraine. More about the program and contacts:
  https://www.worldbank.org/uk/news/press-release/2024/10/31/ukraines-business-environment-to-improve-with-world-bank-support

5. $2.1 billion in concessional loans from South Korea – funding from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) will be allocated over the next five years for equipment procurement and recovery projects in Ukraine. Although the funding is not yet available, the program will launch soon, with the first stage of financing starting in 2025 for infrastructure loans. Program details:
   https://me.gov.ua/News/Detail?lang=uk-UA&id=557f2f01-ff12-4bab-b0a1-1ed6df0f7b65&title=PilgoviKrediti&fbclid=IwAR1KugPmzgw9yXXOUlL2AWIJKWsGMENipIbGdTJmSq_UJUbXZM6fndd4m7c&mibextid=xfxF2i

6. Government Program “Affordable Loans 5-7-9%” – This program remains active. Download details here:
   Affordable Loans Program](https://bdf.gov.ua/programs/dostupni-kredyty-5-7-9/

7. Greenhouse Grant Program – still available, providing grants of up to 7 million UAH for greenhouse development.
  https://diia.gov.ua/services/grant-na-teplicyu

P.S.: If you’re interested in developing a business plan or modern greenhouse project, feel free to submit a request https://perspekta.ua/uk/service.

Good luck with your projects!

Today, the medical cannabis market is becoming one of the most promising sectors for agricultural enterprises in Ukraine. With growing attention to the medical benefits of cannabis and its significant profitability, many businesses working with traditional agricultural crops may consider expanding their range.

Medical cannabis is not just a plant; it's a highly profitable crop with a unique regulatory environment. If your business successfully grows tomatoes or other vegetables in greenhouses, you can easily adjust your production processes to grow cannabis.

The key to successful cannabis cultivation lies in optimizing three crucial factors: air, water, and light. Controlling these elements allows for increased yields and higher concentrations of valuable cannabinoids, making cannabis especially attractive to the medical market.

It is important to note that the cultivation process of medical cannabis requires strict control over growing conditions, particularly in separating male and female plants. This aspect plays a critical role in producing plants with high levels of terpenes and cannabinoids, as the primary value of medical cannabis is concentrated in the trichomes of female plants.

Ukrainian businesses have a unique opportunity to capitalize on this new trend in agro-industry and secure their place in the international market. As experience shows, modern greenhouse technologies and proper climate management can be the foundation for successful cannabis production.

Stay tuned for tactical advice on organizing a cannabis cultivation business soon. In the meantime, don’t miss the chance to expand your business and enter the medical cannabis market—a crop that has already caught the attention of the world’s leading investors!

Big news from Ukraine! The government has passed a law that legalizes the cultivation of medical cannabis. This is a game-changer for both the medical industry and the business world. Not only will it help improve healthcare for millions of patients, but it also opens up exciting opportunities for farmers and investors looking to tap into a growing market.

Medical cannabis can now be grown in controlled environments like greenhouses, making this a perfect time to invest in high-tech farming. With strict security measures in place, such as 24/7 video monitoring, this business promises to be safe and transparent.

For investors, it’s a chance to get in on a booming global market. For farmers, it means the potential for new income from modern greenhouses. Ukraine is now part of a global trend, joining countries like Canada, the EU, and the USA in embracing medical cannabis.

Perspekta is here to help you build the greenhouses of the future!

We are thrilled to share that Perspekta Group LLC recently participated in a significant business mission, focusing on the future of Ukraine's agro-industrial sector. Our Network Manager, Iryna Fowler represented our company, exchanging valuable contacts and gaining insights into Ukraine's ambitious development plans.

This mission provided us with an exceptional opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and deepen our understanding of the innovative strides Ukraine is making in agriculture and industry. We are excited about the potential collaborations that emerged from this event and look forward to contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth in the region.

Stay tuned for more updates. We continue to expand our partnerships and enhance our presence in the agro-industrial sector and building mow and better greenhouse projects in Ukraine! 

And if you're interested in building a greenhouse project, or investing in existing projects in Ukraine, please contact us!

Greenhouse netting has emerged as a vital technology in agriculture, offering both crop protection and a step towards sustainable farming. It serves as a barrier against pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and fostering a healthier environment. With its ability to last up to 15 years, netting is a cost-effective and eco-friendly investment for growers. Here are 8 practical tips for selecting the most suitable insect netting for your greenhouse:

1. Identify Your Cultivation Needs: Understand the specific requirements of your crops to match with the right netting solution. A knowledgeable supplier can guide you and arrange visits to see successful implementations.

2. Target Specific Pests: Knowing the pests you need to guard against helps in choosing the netting with the appropriate mesh size for effective protection.

3. Assess Ventilation Requirements: Select a netting solution that accommodates your greenhouse's ventilation needs without compromising climate control. Tools are available to calculate the impact of netting on ventilation.

4. Consider Light Penetration: Different netting systems impact light entry variably. Opt for a solution that aligns with the acceptable level of light reduction for your crops.

5. Evaluate the Investment: Determine a feasible payback period. Consider the netting's lifespan and UV stability in your cost-benefit analysis.

6. Installation Feasibility: Installation methods vary, especially in existing greenhouses. Choose a netting system that can be installed safely and conveniently, with minimal disruption to your crops.

7. Maintenance Demands: Understand the maintenance requirements of your chosen netting system. Opt for dirt-repellent options if possible to reduce upkeep.

8. Financing Options: Explore financing solutions that suit your budget, including the possibility of matching operational cost savings with a fixed monthly payment for the netting system.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure your investment in greenhouse netting meets your agricultural needs, supports biodiversity, and contributes to more sustainable food production.

Source: Holland Gaas

Saffron, a precious spice with a rich history and unparalleled flavor, represents a unique and promising opportunity for the development of greenhouse farming. Extracted from the flowers of the Crocus Sativus, saffron is not only a culinary delight but also a symbol of luxury that has withstood the ages. Its journey from ancient botanical texts to modern kitchens and scientific laboratories underscores its evergreen appeal and increasing significance.

Saffron: The Path to Success in Greenhouse Business

The history of saffron begins in ancient times, and today it remains one of the most valuable spices. Iran leads in global production, but the high cost of the spice, reaching about $5 per gram in the USA, makes it a profitable choice for greenhouse farmers around the world. Modern research confirms the potential of saffron in the health and wellness sector, further increasing its demand.

Innovations in Greenhouse Cultivation

Greenhouse cultivation, employing advanced technologies such as hydroponics and LED lighting, creates ideal conditions for the cultivation of saffron. This method not only ensures high quality and stability of the harvest but also allows for several harvests a year, increasing profitability.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

The reduction in land use and the possibility of frequent harvesting make greenhouse cultivation of saffron a profitable and sustainable direction. This is a great opportunity for farmers to carve out their niche in the market with a product that enjoys constant demand and growing popularity.

The Future of Saffron in Greenhouses

The future looks bright for those engaged in the cultivation of saffron in greenhouses. This method allows overcoming key difficulties, such as climate sensitivity and labor-intensive processes, making the cultivation of saffron more accessible and sustainable. As the industry grows, new horizons for innovation and profitability open up, making the cultivation of saffron in greenhouses an attractive and profitable direction.

Have questions? Contact us, we will help!

Sourse iGrow News

On December 21, 2023, the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada enacted a landmark legislation that legalizes the use of medicinal cannabis. This pivotal decision not only heralds a new era in Ukraine's healthcare but also represents a substantial advancement for the greenhouse industry, especially in light of the stringent cultivation and oversight requirements involved.

The legislation strictly regulates that cannabis usage is confined to medical, scientific, and industrial applications, with recreational consumption remaining unlawful. Importantly, the cultivation of cannabis is restricted to legal entities holding the requisite licenses and certificates, and each cannabis plant will undergo individual tagging to facilitate tracking.

This move opens up novel opportunities and poses challenges for greenhouse producers. There is an escalating demand for technologically advanced greenhouses, equipped for continuous surveillance and adhering to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards, presenting a substantial market for firms specializing in constructing and servicing such advanced greenhouses.

Following the law's enactment, an increased demand is anticipated for state-of-the-art greenhouses and related equipment necessary for the quality control and cultivation of medical cannabis. This not only fortifies the healthcare sector but also paves the way for vast opportunities in the industrial cultivation of cannabis, which is poised to significantly benefit greenhouse suppliers and associated technological sectors. Given the global trends and the emergence of this new market, there are strong indicators pointing towards a boom in the cultivation of medical cannabis in Ukraine.

The law is set to take effect in 6 months, providing a crucial window for preparation and adaptation to the new standards. This period is vital for all involved parties to gear up for impending shifts and seize the emerging opportunities in this progressive domain.

Today, greenhouse cultivation is at the forefront of attention, especially in light of the grant support program for greenhouse construction. The pronounced interest in this field speaks of its importance and potential for the development of the agro-industrial sector at a commercial level. Given these current trends, we offer to consider the key aspects and tips that will help greenhouse growers achieve success in their efforts. 10 tips for successful greenhouse cultivation:

Choose the right growing substrate:
Selecting the appropriate substrate is key for successful cultivation. Factors such as water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability need to be considered. Research and consult with experts to determine the ideal substrate for your specific crops.

Optimize your watering system:
Effective watering is crucial for healthy plant growth and water conservation. Implement precise watering methods, such as drip or micro-irrigation, to ensure accurate watering while minimizing losses. Regularly monitor moisture levels to avoid over-watering or under-watering.

Pay attention to crop protection:
Protecting your crops from pests, diseases, and environmental stresses is vital for maintaining productivity. Develop integrated pest management strategies focusing on prevention, biological control methods, and targeted chemical treatments. Regular monitoring will help identify potential threats at early stages.

Implement environmental control:
Maintaining optimal conditions in your cultivation complex enhances crop growth and yield. Invest in advanced technologies for temperature, humidity, and ventilation control. Automated systems can efficiently regulate these factors, providing a stable and conducive environment for your plants.

Choose the path of sustainable development:
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly relevant issue in the greenhouse industry. Opt for environmentally friendly methods such as water recycling, energy-efficient lighting, and organic fertilizers. Minimize waste production and explore renewable energy options to reduce your ecological footprint.

Rely on accurate data when making decisions:
Use technology and data analytics for informed decision-making. Track and record key parameters like temperature, humidity, and light intensity. Analyze the gathered data to identify patterns and optimize crop management strategies, enhancing efficiency and yield.

Invest in Quality Equipment:
Utilizing reliable and efficient equipment is key to maximizing productivity. Invest in high-quality machinery such as greenhouse structures, lighting systems, and climate control devices. Quality equipment ensures better plant productivity, reduces downtimes, and enhances overall profitability.

Maintain the Professionalism of Your Team:
Cultivate a skilled workforce that understands the intricacies of horticulture and can adapt to new technologies. Provide opportunities for training and education to enhance their knowledge. Encourage your team towards innovation and process optimization, leading to increased productivity and quality.

Enhance Plant Nutrition:
Provide your plants with a balanced and tailored nutrition program. Regularly conduct soil and tissue analysis to determine nutrient deficiencies or excesses. Adjust fertilizer programs accordingly to optimize plant health and maximize yield.

Stay Informed and Network:
Keep abreast of the latest trends, research, and innovations in the horticultural industry. Attend exhibitions, conferences, and webinars to expand your knowledge and connect with industry experts. Building relationships and timely information consumption will help you always stay a step ahead and adapt to new advancements.

Have questions? Our team is here to help!

Source: hortidaily.com

Ensuring the cleanliness and disinfection of your greenhouse is of utmost importance. Achieving 100% cleanliness is crucial because anything less, like 99%, can leave dormant pathogens that might resurface and infect your next crop.

1. Effective Cleaning Before Disinfection
Remember, disinfection without thorough cleaning makes no sense. Disinfectants typically work on the surfaces they touch and may not penetrate deeper layers. This means that while the surface may appear disinfected, pathogens may still lurk beneath the pollution. For gutter cleaning, avoid using just water; remove contaminants.

2. Select the Right Disinfectant
Identify the specific pathogen you're dealing with and choose a product with the appropriate properties. If your goal is to eliminate viruses, ensure you select a product designed for that purpose with the right dosage and contact time. Opt for a versatile disinfectant effective against various pathogens.

3. Search for Hidden Pathogens
Keep in mind that bacteria, fungi, and viruses are tiny. They can hide in seemingly flat surfaces. Even a coated gutter may have hidden spots when viewed under a microscope. Using a product with a good wetting agent is essential to reach these hidden areas.

4. Examine Your Water System
Your water system serves as a highway for infections. Empty greenhouse periods are ideal for inspecting your water system. Check for any biofilm buildup in storage tanks, as clean water addition doesn't guarantee cleanliness. Clean your system without leaving residues, ensuring a clean system throughout the season.

5. Maintain Cleanliness
Once your greenhouse is clean, the real challenge is maintaining that cleanliness. Establish a robust hygiene protocol for the production phase and ensure that your staff is well-informed and actively engaged in maintaining hygiene standards.

The success of your greenhouse depends on a clean and pathogen-free environment. Keep it clean!

Sourse Hortidaily.com 

The Miyoshi Group, a renowned Japanese agricultural organization, has introduced two groundbreaking F1 strawberry varieties, marking a significant stride towards exporting Japanese strawberry seeds to global markets. The recently released varieties possess the unique advantage of an accelerated growth cycle, allowing for ripe strawberries as early as June. This innovation stems from the ability to grow the strawberry plants directly from Miyoshi F1 seeds, eliminating the need for mother plant propagation. This streamlined approach not only slashes greenhouse cultivation time but also reduces the overall production process by up to three months. Such a methodology also curtails labor expenses, environmental impact, and production space requirements, aligning well with the growing demand for sustainable agricultural practices.

Noteworthy is the environmental impact reduction, encompassing decreased chemical application, lower heating costs, and minimized fertilizer use, equating to over 40% fewer CO2 emissions and an almost 80% reduction in chemical inputs when contrasted with traditional mother plant-based production methods. The Berry Pop F1 Seed Strawberry Project, characterized by vibrant imagery and a clear Japanese identity, has launched with two inaugural varieties: Berry Pop Sakura and Berry Pop Haruhi, both boasting unique flavor profiles.

Sourse: hortidaily.com

The legalization of medical cannabis in Ukraine has become a long-awaited event for the country's healthcare system. The bill on the legalization of medical cannabis was supported by the Cabinet of Ministers after years of efforts from activists, scientists, and medical professionals. This issue has been surrounded by numerous political manipulations and insufficient awareness. Therefore, it is important to understand why medical hemp is significant and why its legalization is a right step in the development of the medical and scientific spheres.

One of the key aspects of the bill pertains to controlling the content of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis for medical purposes. The project stipulates that permitted preparations with THC content will not exceed 0.2%, as it is in the EU, which will help reduce the risk of addiction. It is crucial to distinguish medical cannabis from illegal drugs and recognize its potential in treating various conditions.

Even with limited evidence on the effectiveness and side effects of medical cannabis, it is necessary to comprehend that research is essential for developing medical drugs based on it. The prohibition of studying the plant by Ukrainian scientists puts our country in an unfavorable position, and legalization opens opportunities for scientific research and the development of new therapeutic methods.

A particular focus should be placed on the possibilities of treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with medical cannabis. Some studies indicate that this plant-based preparation can help veterans cope with PTSD symptoms. Ensuring legal access to medical cannabis can be a significant step in providing veterans with proper treatment and support.

Of course, some people are concerned about the potential abuse of legalized cannabis. However, it is essential to understand that controlled and limited access to medications is crucial in reducing negative consequences. The application of medical cannabis should be based on scientific evidence and adhere to strict safety standards.

Before legalizing medical cannabis, careful consideration should be given to its accessibility and regulation. History shows that previous attempts at legalization were not always successful due to improper implementation or insufficient control over the supply.

Nevertheless, the goal of legalizing medical cannabis represents a significant boost in opportunities for medicine and science in Ukraine. Ensuring access to research and medical preparations based on cannabis stimulates the development of medical science and can aid patients with various conditions, including PTSD.

Therefore, we closely follow Ukraine's path towards new therapeutic and business opportunities!

In the world of agriculture, new technologies and innovations aimed at increasing efficiency and improving growing conditions for plants emerge every year. One such innovation is the fifth generation greenhouses. They are modern structures designed to provide optimal conditions for plants inside. But is it worth investing in them in certain climatic conditions?

The main feature of fifth generation greenhouses, or as they are correctly called, semi-closed greenhouses, is the use of cooling systems with wet pads. These systems ensure an efficient cooling process inside the greenhouse, which is particularly beneficial in climates with low humidity. In such conditions, where the humidity is less than 60%, fifth generation greenhouses can be highly effective and bring significant benefits.

However, in countries with climates where humidity exceeds 60%, the efficiency of cooling systems using wet pads decreases. This is because at higher air humidity, wet materials are not able to effectively cool the air inside the greenhouse. In such cases, investing in fifth generation greenhouses may simply result in overpayment, as the cooling systems cannot operate at maximum efficiency.

Therefore, the construction of fifth generation greenhouses in countries like Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and other countries with similar climatic conditions may raise doubts. Before deciding to build such greenhouses in these regions, it is necessary to carefully analyze climatic data, including air humidity, and assess how effectively the cooling systems with wet pads will function.

However, it is worth noting that fifth generation greenhouses have important advantages and high efficiency in suitable climatic conditions. They provide more stable and optimal conditions for plant growth and development, which can lead to increased yields and improved product quality. This is achieved by maintaining carbon dioxide levels inside the greenhouse without the need for ventilation windows, as is commonly used in traditional greenhouses for cooling purposes.

In conclusion, the feasibility of constructing fifth generation greenhouses depends on the climatic conditions of a specific region. In countries with low air humidity, these greenhouses can be highly effective. However, in more humid climates like most post-Soviet countries, their efficiency may be limited.

Feel free to contact us for more information, and our team will provide guidance on what is best for you!

Zucchiolo, a crossbreed between zucchini and cucumber. The plant combines characteristics of both vegetables and is suitable for greenhouse cultivation. With high yields of 9-11 kg/m² and adaptable planting densities, Zucchiolo offers a potential yield exceeding 100,000 kg per hectare. Its tricolor varieties include dark green, light green, and yellow options. Zucchiolo can be consumed fresh or cooked, with a soft texture and no thorns, and has a post-harvest shelf life of up to three weeks outside the refrigerator. Its versatility and unique features make it a remarkable addition to the European market.

Sourse: Hortidaily

The Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine has started developing grant programs for the creation or development of greenhouse farming or horticulture, which is an important step in supporting the industry that previously received insufficient support from the state. However, according to the Ministry, only 11 grants have been issued so far for greenhouse construction, and many entrepreneurs do not participate in this program due to uncertainty with electricity supply.

UKAB analyst Maxim Gopka notes that the greenhouse market in Ukraine is undersaturated, and greenhouse vegetables are becoming increasingly popular among the population. Greenhouse owners also have advantages due to higher yields and the ability to grow organic vegetables year-round.

However, Anatolii Kinakh, President of the Ukrainian League of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, notes that the state focuses on supporting large farms, not paying enough attention to small and medium-sized producers. He also believes that free educational webinars for entrepreneurship and business organizations are needed to expand grant opportunities and attract more participants to the industry.

Last year, prices for greenhouse tomatoes and cucumbers were at record highs. However, not many greenhouse complexes took advantage of these prices with the onset of cold weather, as even the high cost of vegetables did not cover the production costs that had risen due to the energy crisis.

At the end of 2022, the issue of high prices for energy carriers was compounded by problems caused by attacks on the energy infrastructure by the Russian occupying army. As a result, many greenhouse complexes in Ukraine decided not to continue production during the winter season.

"Last year, the price of gas was indeed high, and this increased expenses. Of course, war brings difficulties, as it creates an imbalance in demand for products on the market. Also, until February, we had problems with electricity supply, which is important for the greenhouse business. For greenhouse farms, costs for logistics, fuel, and packaging have increased. There is an example where large greenhouse complexes switched to growing tomatoes instead of cucumbers because cucumbers require more energy costs, even though they grow faster," says Maxim Hopka, an analyst at the Ukrainian Club of Agricultural Business (UCAB).

"Indeed, the market has shrunk because there are fewer consumers - people have left the country. In addition, consumers' incomes have decreased. Accordingly, production has also decreased because the market does not need so much produce," says economist Andriy Yarmak from the Investment Department of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

According to Yarmak, high energy costs have forced greenhouse growers to optimize their season by focusing on minimal greenhouse heating, which also leads to a reduction in production. But this trend is also happening in parallel with a decrease in demand

According to the Ukrainian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (USPP), about 35% of greenhouse farms have stopped operating due to the war. Many of them experienced economic difficulties in 2021, when there was a crisis in gas price hikes.

Heating greenhouse farms with gas is expensive. Therefore, many producers in Ukraine are switching to alternative fuels, such as biomass, building bio-power plants, and so on. The cost of electricity has also increased by about 40%, which is one of the main cost components for greenhouse growers - growing seedlings requires maximum lighting. Kinakh emphasized that greenhouse farming is one of the most energy-intensive areas in agriculture.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that plays a vital role in plant growth. In greenhouse horticulture, CO2 is used to enhance the photosynthesis process, which is essential for plant growth and yield. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and CO2 to produce energy-rich molecules such as sugars and starches, which they use as food.

CO2 is one of the raw materials required for photosynthesis. However, in a typical greenhouse, the amount of CO2 is often less than what plants need to perform optimally. Therefore, greenhouse growers use CO2 dosing to supplement the natural levels of CO2 in the air. CO2 dosing involves adding extra CO2 to the greenhouse environment to increase the concentration of CO2 in the air. This is typically achieved by using CO2 generators or burners, which produce CO2 by burning natural gas or propane.

The benefits of CO2 dosing in greenhouses are numerous. First, CO2 dosing can increase the rate of photosynthesis, leading to faster plant growth and higher yields. Secondly, CO2 dosing can help plants to use water more efficiently, reducing the need for irrigation. Thirdly, CO2 dosing can help plants to tolerate higher temperatures, allowing growers to maintain optimal growing conditions even during periods of hot weather.

However, it is important to note that CO2 dosing should be done in moderation. Too much CO2 can be harmful to plants, and excessive levels of CO2 can lead to reduced growth, stunted development. Therefore, it is essential to monitor CO2 levels regularly and adjust dosing accordingly. By supplementing natural levels of CO2, greenhouse growers can create an optimal growing environment that promotes healthy plant growth and development. However, it is crucial to monitor CO2 levels regularly and adjust dosing accordingly to avoid harmful effects on plant growth.

A fully equipped rooftop greenhouse was recently commissioned by Perspekta Group team in Kyiv area, Ukraine. It took almost two month of building, in cold winter weather while overhearing missile attacks, for the project to be done. 

The greenhouse is equipped with such systems as LED lighting, high pressure misting system, energy-saving screening system, irrigation and heating which allow control the climate and grow crop all year-round. Combination of hydroponic vertical towers and raised beds with different growing substrate allow flexibility in types of crop and methods to grow.

Goals and benefits of rooftop greenhouse reached:

1. Space efficiency: A rooftop greenhouse maximizes the use of available space.
2. Year-round growing: Rooftop greenhouses provide an ideal environment for growing plants. This allows for a constant supply of fresh produce.
3. Increased food security: With a rooftop greenhouse, building owners can grow their own fresh produce, reducing their reliance on imported produce. This is particularly important in Ukraine with limited access to fresh and healthy food options.

We already are working on the next project to be built on the rooftop, also fully equipped for year-round growing. Fingers crossed; the peaceful time will come soon. We do believe a rooftop greenhouse will be the trend all over the country when peace is there.

Perspekta Group is the leading greenhouse builder in Ukraine. The company has earned recognition for undertaking large, complex projects, fostering innovation, embracing traditional and emerging technologies, and making a difference for their clients. Simultaneously, the residential division of Perspekta has provided functional beautification to many of the nation’s most desirable estates. 

By focusing on Design-Build project delivery, Perspekta team brings best the world has to offer in growing technologies to Ukraine, in order to create a lasting positive legacy.

A new growing system initiated in Italy shows that growing saffron can be easy and profitable by growing vertically in the containers. Now saffron, one of the most expensive and rare spice, can be grown in hydroponic vertical system, a container farm.

"To get to the amount of 2 kg in dried pistils on a yearly basis in the open field, you'd at least need about 1,000m2. However, our container equals that number with its multiple layers. Besides that, the product quality is outstanding, as we don't have the same risks as open-field growers do." - Daniele Bertocchi, owner of Italian container company says.

The chemical analysis has shown that the parameters of bittering, coloring and flavoring properties are far within the first category of conventionally grown saffron. To illustrate the outcome; the coloring power, expressed as 'crocin,' stood at 280 ± 34; the bittering power, expressed as picrocrocin, stood at 111 ± 16; and the flavoring power, expressed as 'safranal,' stood at 29.9 ± 4.0.

Meaning that these results all fall into the minimum requirements for the first category of saffron production. With that said, you can install in you back yard a container and make money by supplying rare expensive spice to the restaurants around, for instance!

Sourced at hortidaily.com 

We talk about the important nuances that you can take into account when choosing a site for maximum greenhouse efficiency. Briefly they are: solar activity, shading, zoning, wind and access to water and electricity. More details below.

Location

First, let's start from the place where it is allowed to build a greenhouse according to state norms. It is important to take into account the distance from power lines, gas pipes, etc. Tree uprooting is often not allowed or too expensive thus it's best to look for treeless areas.

Lack of access to water can be a problem. The quality of the water is not as important becasue it can be treated with purification processes.

Electricity must be available. Determining the required voltage is also key in the planning. Most greenhouses require 480V 3-phase, which is not available in all areas or can be expensive to connect.

Internet access and a satellite connection are also important because most systems use the Internet to signal danger or system’s failure.

A distance of the greenhouse for workers is important factor as well. If they have to spend more than 1 hour to get to work, it will be difficult for you to keep workers. This is a serious problem if you want to grow crop successfully and have an efficient staff.

Also take into account the distance to the market or other sale points of your products. You will save time and fuel if you are closer to your distributors or customers. It is often the deciding factor for product sales and business development.

Climate conditions

Shading/percentage of sunshine at any time of the year is an important factor in plant growth that you can use for your profit or additional cost.

Solar activity and shading varies from place to place, especially in mountainous and wooded areas. Solar activity is essential for sufficient growth and passive solar heating.

If the site is shaded during the winter, this can result in lost production or increased lighting costs. In summer, some shading is usually not a significant disadvantage and even benefits the greenhouse by reducing heat gain and preventing overheating. Many growers use shading and cooling strategies to help keep their greenhouse cool in the summer, and it's cheaper than the extra cost of lighting and heating.

Maps and weather websites such as NREL or NASA can give you an idea of the overall light levels in your area. From there you can get more detailed information about a particular site by evaluating anything that might obscure the greenhouse (called obstructions), such as buildings or neighboring trees.

If there are obstacles nearby, we recommend considering their effect on the greenhouse. This can be done in several ways, such as using trigonometry and sketching surrounding objects. A tool called the Solar Pathfinder is another option, like getting a greenhouse designer or engineer to model your site and provide shadows.

Lux meters are another option, but it's usually difficult to give a complete picture of light levels throughout the year. The luxmeter measures the level of illumination in real time. To get a complete picture of the light in your location, a data logger or multiple measurements over a period of time is needed.

Wind is also an important factor. The higher the wind loads, the more expensive the greenhouse will be, because the structure must be stronger than in other regions.

Potentially wind also leads to more wear on the glazing or plastic film and increases wear on the structure. Air vents are especially sensitive to the "sail effect" - they are often torn off during strong gusts. Therefore, the ideal place for a greenhouse is protected from strong winds.

Check if the property is in a flood zone. Placing in the lowlands can cost the harvest.

If there is a hail problem in your area, engineers should take this into account when calculating roof loads and equipment specifications. The frequency and size of hail will greatly influence the choice of greenhouse cover.

Take note and forward to new achievements! If you have sites where you like to build a  greenhouse but still doubt, please contact us. Perspekta team will be happy to help and suggest the best option available.

Special deal for hobby greenhouse pre-order starts on Decmber 15^th!

A 2023 New year offer, 20% discount on selected models of greenhouses or a 23% discount on a set of greenhouses and screening.

The number of greenhouses is limited! The promotion is valid until January 15, 2023.

Details vist perspekta.garden or request an offer!