Thanks to its highly adaptable structure, the Multyatlantic Evoluzione greenhouse represents a great success in the county of Lincolnshire in the UK.
A well-known wholesaler in the field of leaf vegetables decided about two years ago to start its own high quality production in vertical hydroponics and to grow the famous pak-choi right there.
The customer's needs
In order to achieve high quality production, the customer is looking for a greenhouse that is not too large, but with a high yield and that allows strict climate control inside of it. In addition, it needs to be efficient in terms of soil and water consumption and above all, the greenhouse must be able to optimally spread sunlight. In fact, the vertical columns for hydroponic pak-choi cultivation must be uniformly lit, so as to guarantee simultaneous growth of the plants at the root as well as those at the top.
The solution of Idromeccanica Lucchini
A Multyatlantic Evoluzione greenhouse that covers a hectare and a half characterized by large working spaces and excellent air circulation represented the ideal solution. Vertical hydroponics allows a production of five times that of the same area covered in open field. Also, it allows better space management and improves the quality of work. Idromeccanica Lucchini has developed a closed-loop water system that allows 100% recycling and zero residual waste. Drainage works have been implemented to channel rainwater from the greenhouse and surrounding areas, resulting in zero impact on water consumption. Thanks to the perfect insulation of the greenhouse based on automatic shading screens, the plants suffer very little thermal stress in both the summer and autumn cycles. In this way, growth is more balanced and the production is higher. Climate control eliminates stagnant moisture and shading nets protect the greenhouse from pests.
Cutting-edge technology
To achieve the desired outcome, Idromeccanica Lucchini offers several cutting-edge technological solutions. An example of this is plastic film with very high light diffusion, which allows a photon scattering up to 90%. This enables light to reach the plants on the lower levels with the same intensity as on the upper levels.
For climate control and fertigation management, the greenhouse has a technical area equipped with hardware and software capable of monitoring and controlling every aspect of plant management. Climate control, ventilation, irrigation, etc. are constantly monitored by the technicians.
