Commercial Greenhouse

If you could go back and re-design your existing greenhouse, how many changes would you make? How many of those changes would be minor ones and how many would involve major structural, heating or other mechanical changes?

Having worked in a large greenhouse first as a laborer, then as Operations Manager/Grower for 17 years, I have a deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful team. When I became part of the GGS group and started participating in management meetings for continuous improvement, it struck me how many similarities there are between what makes a successful manufacturing operation and what makes a successful greenhouse operation.

Though there are certainly crops that commonly lend themselves to healthy greenhouse gardening and greenhouse farming production, like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, orchids, chrysanthemum, and roses, you will find that today’s greenhouse crop production growers are branching out into all different kinds of agriculture.

How many greenhouse operations are concerned with energy savings? I will bet almost every one of them at one time or another! Energy costs are at the top of the grower’s expenses and yet there are many operations that do not spend enough time investigating how to lower their energy use.

I came across an interesting article today about the future of greenhouse food production. Food service buyers are seeing the many benefits of produce being grown in greenhouses, and the industry is expected to grow rapidly over the next few years.

1. Square Posts are easier to connect to

When debating round vs square consider the time savings right angles and flat surfaces give you. It is the little details in a greenhouse design that can add up to big savings. Round posts require you to use clamps or U-Bolts to connect your trusses and your side and gable framing. Square posts enable a quicker bolt through connection, which is also more secure.

Greenhouses aren't just for plants anymore. In Missouri, saltwater shrimp is being grown in a greenhouse as part of a project run by David Brune, a professor at Missouri University College of Agriculture. The goal is to develop a seafood production system that is sustainable, scalable, and environmentally friendly.

Studies have clearly shown that sales increase when a plant is branded. There are many benefits for you and your customers in branding your plants, including increased recognition, value and repeat purchases. If you have a quality product line that you’re unsure about branding, here are some reasons to reconsider.