Advancements in agricultural technology have improved greenhouse efficiency and productivity significantly, said Ray Mastronardi, vice president of sales for Del Fresco Pure.
The result is an increase in the variety and quality of greenhouse-grown produce and the efficiency, sustainability and productivity of greenhouse farming, making it more appealing to consumers.
LED lighting technology, automation and robotics and better machinery in packhouses are among the highlights, Mastronardi said.
And there’s more to come.
“As technology continues to evolve, it’s expected that greenhouses will become even more productive and environmentally friendly, helping to meet the global demand for food while minimizing ecological impact.”
Cutting-edge innovations are helping to ensure a rosy future for greenhouse production, said Jenny Halpin, NatureSweet’s senior manager of external communications.
“There have been incredible advancements in technology and software over the last several years which have led to improved data collection in our greenhouses,” Halpin said.
Artificial intelligence, for instance, gives NatureSweet more insights into its crops, allowing the company to predict plant health issues, optimize growth cycles, and improve yield forecasting. NatureSweet also utilizes CEA techniques like fertigation and drip irrigation, which significantly enhance the efficiency of fertilizer usage on its crops, while minimizing the environmental impact.