01/02/2021
Carbon dioxide enrichment is a method used by commercial greenhouse growers to increase profit by enhancing hydroponically grown plants.
For maximum profits, there is an optimum CO2 concentration that should be present inside the greenhouse, which depends on the stage of growth and species of crop, as well as the location, time of year, and type of greenhouse.
Generally, levels at two to five times the normal atmospheric levels (1,000–1,500 ppm CO2) may be taken as the optimum levels.
On cool days, when greenhouses are being heated and air vents are closed, plants will deplete the CO2 in the greenhouse atmosphere.
In 1 h, plants in a closed greenhouse may lower the CO2 concentration enough to significantly reduce growth rates.
Air venting to maintain CO2 concentration at outside levels would increase heating costs substantially.
In these circumstances, special heaters using propane, natural gas, or fuel oil can supply CO2
while simultaneously raising temperatures.
Carbon dioxide enrichment may be expected to increase fertilizer and water requirements,since plants will be growing more vigorously.
Commercial greenhouse operators claim a 20%–30% increase in tomato yields; better fruit set in early clusters, especially when low light levels would normally
reduce fruit setting; and larger fruits.
Lettuce yields have increased 20%–30% per crop, and faster growth rates have allowed production of an extra crop each year.
This practice produces sturdier plants in much less time than conventional systems.
In general, the optimum carbon dioxide levels during the day for tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and lettuce are 700–1,000, 800–1,200, 800–1,000, and 1,000–1,200 ppm, respectively.🌱
Learn more on www.indhydroponics.com
