|
|
|
|
ENRICHMENT OF GREENHOUSE ATMOSPHERE UTILIZING CO2 Proper plant growth or the rate of Photosynthesis is dependent primarily upon the following environmental factors: Sunlight, Humidity, Plant Nutrients, Water and a suitable level of Carbon Dioxide. (CO2) These factors are all readily available in greenhouses during the warm weather growing season. During the cold greenhouse-growing season all are available except for CO2. The closing of vents and windows create a closed atmosphere preventing the outside atmosphere from entering. The outside atmosphere contains approximately 250 to 300 ppm (parts per million) of CO2 (.025 - .03%) per volume. Studies and practical experience has
Inside a closed or atmosphere restricted greenhouse, CO2 is generated at night via plant decaying matter in the soil. This level of CO2 is quickly used up in the early growing hours and is not regenerated again until the dark evening hours. This cycle is obviously counterproductive in the use of daily available sunlight. A proven method of overcoming this cycle and taking advantage of all available sunlight, is to add CO2 to the greenhouses atmosphere. With all of the above-mentioned environmental factors satisfied, CO2 enrichment can:
Experiments at Colorado State University revealed that a closed atmosphere rose greenhouse accumulated 400 parts per million of CO2 overnight. On a sunny day this level dropped to 250 by 10 am, and 125 by midday. Studies have revealed that roses and carnations grown in an atmosphere of 350 to 500 ppm of CO2 grow faster with improved quality and yield over atmospheres containing 200 ppm. The CO2 enriched roses showed an increase in long stem grades, reduction in short stems and an approximate 9% increase in yield. The CO2 enriched carnations showed, mid points running approximately two weeks ahead, and a 38% increase in yield. Other greenhouse plants positively affected by winter CO2 addition include: Mums, Geraniums, Orchids, African Violets, Begonias, Lettuce and Tomatoes. We are ready to discuss further with you the benefits of CO2 greenhouse atmosphere enrichment, and how it can be integrated into your operation. Contact Us: In the states of: CT, DE, MA, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, AND VT. Telephone - 800-727-9676Otherwise - 607-734-6582 FAX - 607-734-6438Address:905 LACKAWANNA AVE. ELMIRA, NY 14901-1571
|
|
|
shown that the growth rate of plants starts slowly when the environmental
factors are available, and the atmospheric CO2 content is at about 200 ppm. The
plant growth stops at about 125 ppm.