Greenhouse Technology Gets the Focus in 2022

Benches at Quality GreenhousesShow a greenhouse grower a new piece of equipment or a new gadget, and chances are they’ll immediately start pondering 1) how it might fit into their operation, and 2) whether they can justify the return on investment.

Indeed, stories on the potential of new technology get a lot of attention, especially if they include perspectives from your peers. Here are six technology-focused stories we posted on GreenhouseGrower.com that piqued your interest.

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8 Trends Driving Grower Technology Adoption

Every greenhouse grower, regardless of size or crops grown, likely looks at technology and automation through the same lens: Does it make my operation more efficient, does it help me save on labor and other costs, and does it help me improve plant quality? We recently looked for answers to these questions and more with two of the growers on Greenhouse Grower’s Top 100 Growers list: Scott Crownover, President and CEO of Skagit Horticulture (#23) in Mt. Vernon, WA; and Mike Goyette, Operations Manager at Pleasant View Gardens (#94) in Loudon, NH. Click here for their insights and suggestions.

Computer Vision in the Greenhouse Is No Longer in the Future; It’s Here

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Dümmen Orange, EHR, and Ridder Announce New Employee Hires and Promotions

Computer-based technology is becoming increasingly commonplace and sophisticated in the world of horticulture and agriculture. Sensor technology has long assisted greenhouse growers in monitoring and controlling their production ranges, even up to making automatic decisions regarding climate control actions. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision are taking these capabilities to the next level in greenhouses and fields across the globe. AI programs can be trained to recognize things such as insect infestations, new damage to foliage, different types of damage and diseases, new and developing growth of foliage, differentiated plant structures such as fruits and flowers over leaves, and more.

Learn more here.

Drones and Scouting Tools Bring New Automation Options Into the Greenhouse

Protecting and maintaining the health of your plants is becoming more high-tech than ever, and the timing is perfect. After all, scouting is critical, but it is also very labor-intensive. From drones to cameras to artificial intelligence, here’s a closer look at the latest innovations from a range of technology solution providers.

How You Can Shift From Optimal Growth to Optimal Energy Use With LEDs

Influenced by the energy market, the approach to lighting is changing. Focus on maximum production is being exchanged for the most efficient use of your available energy. The great thing about LEDs, which use about half the amount of energy, is that they bring this new lighting strategy within reach. This makes it possible to start thinking in terms of “as much gram tomato/kWh as possible” instead of “as much production and/or the highest light efficiency as possible.” A considerable difference, which also affects other aspects of cultivation. Learn more here.

Lessons Learned From Six Recent Greenhouse Expansions

The strength of the horticulture market over the last couple of years has given many growers the resources, and a strong reason, to expand or upgrade their production facilities. These projects involve a great deal of planning, as well as constant communication during the process. Click here to learn more about some of these projects, and how they’ve helped position the operations well for the future.

10 New Innovations in Cannabis Growing Technology

Investing in the right growing technology can be a key factor in greenhouse cannabis production. Check out this slideshow for a closer look at a few products that can help you grow a high-quality crop.

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