Shading Greenhouses To Improve The Microclimate, Energy

Why is greenhouse shading important?

Used properly, greenhouse shading protects against solar radiation and wind. It can modify the environment and extend the growing season, in warm and cold weather conditions. When incoming solar energy strikes plant leaves, it is converted to heat energy.

Can solar panels shade a greenhouse?

Ureña-Sánchez et al. (2010) used flexible solar PV panels to shade a greenhouse and to provide the required energy for operating a naturally ventilated greenhouse in South Eastern Spain. They examined the effect of solar panels on the productivity and quality of tomato as well as air temperature and relative humidity in greenhouses.

What is a greenhouse shading system?

A good greenhouse shading system can also reduce the amount of condensation forming within the greenhouse walls. There are many ways of increasing and decreasing shade within greenhouses, some of them being using shade cloths, curtains, coverings, films, blinds, screens, and shading compounds.

What makes a good greenhouse shade system?

The last component of a good greenhouse shade system is a shading compound. A shading compound or whitewash is a paint-like white colored substance which is applied onto the greenhouse walls. It diffuses or increases the amount of light reflected back onto the plants.

Does shading affect cooling performance of a greenhouse?

In general, the growth quality in the shaded part was better than in the un-shaded part for the entire cultivated plants in the greenhouse. Ghosal et al. (2003) developed a mathematical model to study the effect of an external roof and south wall shading on cooling performance of a greenhouse.

How does a greenhouse shade system work?

An internal greenhouse shade system is fitted to the body of the greenhouse. It is attached to the walls or under the roof and balances the temperature by bouncing off the heat or reflecting it back into the greenhouse. During winter months, the shade nets will keep humidity at a proper level like in the picture below.