Open hydroponic systems, or bag culture systems, are the most widely used hydroponic systems in Africa. They are used for the production of crops such as tomatoes, peppers, melons, brinjals, roses etc. Any crop that can be trellised or that grows at least 1 m high is suitable for bag culture. These systems are relatively [...]
Solar radiation is the most important factor affecting plant growth. Without light plants will not grow. Plants require a very narrow spectrum of solar light to grow. All other light that falls on plants are transformed into heat and has to be removed by the plant which uses up energy. Selecting the right cladding material [...]
Greenhouse size is determined by the width and height. The height will determine climate inside the greenhouse and the width will determine what crops you will or can grow in the greenhouse. So what is the ideal greenhouse size; well, it is not a simple answer. It requires some holistic thinking, but let's see what the scientist [...]
There are a huge number of types of greenhouse structures available. The structural design will mainly depend on various factors such as: Crops that will be grownThe climate of the areaMaterial that will be used for the structureFinance available for the capitalPersonal preferences Most people that start opt for erecting a shade cloth structure since [...]
The design of a production system consisting of a greenhouse, irrigation system, packing facility, heating system and transport system is an extremely complicated procedure which has to take into account and integrate biological and mechanical systems that work harmoniously together. Not only must this be achieved but the whole system should be flexible, adaptable, versatile, [...]
Hydroponic systems consist of the overhead structure creating a suitable climate for optimum plant growth and the irrigation system providing all the nutrients. Deciding on the greenhouse location is crucial. The structure (including the covering material) must create as close to optimum climate for the various crops to be grown. High radiation from the sun, high [...]
Although most crops can be grown in some derivative of a hydroponic system, not all crops can be grown successfully on a commercial scale throughout the year. If you want to start your hydroponic system on a small scale initially, read this ebook by A.J. Clarke. You will quickly know if commercial hydroponics is in your [...]
There are many advantages and disadvantages of hydroponics and field grown farming systems. It is however important that the system chosen should provide the highest income and is capable to supply the market with its requirements. A good starting point to learn more about hydroponics at The Science of Hydroponics - Introduction to Hydroponicsby Sue [...]
Hydroponics is a method of growing plants in a medium, other than soil, using mixtures of the essential plant nutrients, which are dissolved in water. The medium that is used keeps the plant upright and absorbs some water. It also provides the necessary oxygen for the plant roots. Why bother with chemicals, tanks and irrigation [...]
