Should I Automate My Greenhouse?

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Strategically setting up your greenhouse with automated climate controls, lighting controls, and solution controls has the potential to improve your crop’s quality as well as reduce operational costs. As the years pass, these systems have become more of a necessity rather than a luxury, especially if you want to compete when the majority of the market is already capitalizing on this technology. Most of these packages are “plug and play” setups supplying you with constant real-time data management and environmental controls directly from your smart phone or computer. In my opinion, automating your greenhouse is an opportunity that is well worth the investment.

Greenhouse automation is the opportunity for consistency, freedom, and savings.

Think of consistency. The greatest benefit of automation is the data management software for collecting and comparing data. historical data trends can be used to make educated improvements to your crop’s environment until your system is programmed to consistently run at the perfect settings. Consistent results equal accurate forecasts and improved budgeting. If you think about it, this type of efficiency could be the competitive advantage you have been looking for.

Think of freedom. You already spend way too much time tending to your crops. Whether it’s monitoring your feed-cycle, filling your reservoirs, or checking your temperatures you could always be doing something more productive. Automation can handle all of the above tasks and more from the convenience of your smart phone or computer. The freedom and confidence you gain from having mobile control over your greenhouse is invaluable. Imagine if you could actually leave your property for a quick vacation every once in a while.

And finally, don’t forget to think about the savings that come with automation. Of course, it depends on the size your operation, budget, crop, and your access to the fundamental things like electricity and Wi-Fi (get off the grid internet accesss). With all things considered, automation has the potential to cut labor costs, utility expenses and nutrient expenses. In addition, most of these systems have become essentially effortless to install, making the hardest part of automation the buying process. Sound appealing?

The companies below offer some popular and affordable greenhouse automation systems:

Entry Level Controllers:

smart bee

WCS_Logo_Website:Layout 1

Advanced Controllers:

argus             priva-logo               hogendorn


Is this a topic you have experience with? How about these brands? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.


Author: Daniel Monk


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