5 Big Benefits of Greenhouses
The use of greenhouses for commercial farming is on the rise around the world.
And it’s not surprising, given the many benefits these undercover growing solutions offer. Here are six significant ways greenhouses benefit growers, consumers, and the planet.
1. Grow anything, anytime, anywhere
One of the greatest advantages of undercover farming is the all-year growing season it creates. Through temperature control, smart irrigation, the right soil and a few other nifty tricks, greenhouses can be customised to grow anything, anywhere, anytime - regardless of seasons, soil or environmental conditions. With this, food gets grown closer to where it’s needed, and seasonal and regional crops are available anywhere, all-year round. For growers - crop choices are dramatically increased and you’re assured of steady profits, before you’ve even considered exporting.
2. Improved crop quality and yields
With growers able to calibrate conditions inside the greenhouse structure, you can create the most appropriate and advantageous growing environment for your crop. And crops that grow in optimal conditions not only thrive, they also provide quality produce and greater crop yields. In fact, according to Netafim.com, “growing crops in greenhouses produces 6 to 10 times the amount of yield compared to growing them in open fields.” That’s an impressive boost to any bottom line.
3. Fewer threats to crops
Between animals, birds and diseases, crops are up against an array of pests when grown in the open. Fortunately, greenhouse farming enables growers to keep many of these threats at bay. And the knock-on effect of being able to protect crops is that, with your undercover solution, you’ll use up to 50% less pesticides – a win for consumers too. Greenhouses also protect your crops from extreme weather conditions like strong winds and heavy rain as well as sudden changes in the weather, which can have devastating effects on crops.
4. Increased sustainability
The global population is projected to reach a staggering 10 billion by 2050. This means agricultural production will need to grow by as much as 50% to meet the increased demand for food. All of this in the face of fewer resources, arable land projected to decrease by 20% less and water expected to be at 50% less. Given these numbers, greenhouses are likely to play a significant role in meeting the need for increased food production. Remember that statistic about greenhouses producing 6 to 10 times greater yields than crops grown outdoors? Well, this also means that “for each square meter of land or cubic meter of water used in a greenhouse, there is 6 to 10 times more yield compared to growing in an open field.” (Netafim.com) Crucial figures considering that fertile land and water are set to become even more valuable resources in years to come.
5. Customisable solutions
Finally, greenhouses can be tailored for specific needs, crops, climate and light requirements. And by choosing the right partner, growers benefit from advanced technology and exceptional greenhouse engineering expertise. All Vegtech Netafim’s undercover, tailored growing solutions are designed to the highest local and international standards. Our team of engineers and agronomists are committed to creating the most advanced greenhouse solutions available today.
Grow with us
If you’d like to discuss how Vegtech Netafim can custom design and construct a greenhouse solution for your commercial farming project, and deliver real results for your business, get in touch with us today.
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