The Benefits of Automated Irrigation in Greenhouses
Irrigation is a necessary process for plant growth and, although it can be done manually, automating the process could bring several benefits to controlled-environment growers. As with all types of automation, there are options to choose from.
A fully computerized control system incorporates all features of the simpler systems and adds support for a much wider range of input sensors, crop water use models, and most importantly, efficient irrigation system capacity management. Another approach, before considering a fully computerized controls system, consists of relying on sensors alone. This may not be the best method as they can fail on occasion. However, if they are combined with a modeling system, the result is optimal.
Another reason to use an automated system is the ability to include fertigation automation, which a simple solution normally cannot offer. One of the benefits of using an automated system is that it saves on labor costs by eliminating the need for employees to constantly monitor and water plants.
In addition to labor costs, hand watering also could affect the quality of the product. Using an automated system improves how production is controlled.
Using an automated system improves how production is controlled. On the other hand, there are certain applications where automated irrigation is not beneficial, such as in conservatories where there is a variety of plants, each with their own needs.
Automating irrigation in a greenhouse is not an easy task. There are a number of factors to consider when planning and designing your irrigation or fertigation solution. To learn more about a system from Argus Controls, click here.
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