• Grow warm or grow cool?

    Published on July 17, 2009
    Using the Virtual Grower computer software is one way to determine how to get the best results at certain greenhouse growing temperatures.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 4: Dianthus & snapdragon

    Published on June 22, 2009
    Researchers from Michigan State University present research-based information for scheduling dianthus and snapdragon in an energy-efficient and predictive manner. Part 4 of a 12-part series.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 3: Marigolds

    Published on May 22, 2009
    Researchers from Michigan State University present research-based information for scheduling marigold in an energy-efficient and predictive manner. Part 3 of a 12-part series.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 2: Scheduling bedding plants

    Published on April 22, 2009
    Greenhouse temperature influences plant development and energy consumption for heating. When producing a crop, delivery of low temperatures may actually be more energy intensive than warmer temperatures.

  • Controlling height with temperature drops

    Published on April 17, 2009
    Temperature drop is the practice of lowering the temperature, typically by 5-15 degrees F, before sunrise. Generally, the greater the magnitude of the temperature drop, the stronger it suppresses plant height.

  • Energy-efficient annuals 1: Perfecting temps and light

    Published on March 29, 2009
    Learn the concepts of how temperature and daily light integral influence growth and flowering of annual bedding plant crops.

  • Calculating ADT (average daily temperature)

    Published on December 17, 2008
    Average daily temperature is a crucial factor in crop time and plant development. Learn to calculate it and how it affects your growing schedule.

  • Fanning uniformity in the greenhouse

    Published on May 17, 2008
    Horizontal airflow fans, which help create a more uniform greenhouse environment, can be a boon if used properly.

  • Responses to temperature & light

    Published on January 29, 2008
    Longer growing time at cooler temperatures or shorter growing time with warmer temperatures? That question is addressed for annual bedding plants in this article.

  • Using +DIF to lower fuel costs

    Published on February 17, 2007
    As energy costs continue to be a concern, consider growing crops at a warm day temperature and a cool night temperature to help reduce fuel costs.

  • Manage temperatures for the best spring crops

    Published on January 17, 2007
    Given the high cost of greenhouse heating, many growers are lowering the temperature set points. While there are some advantages to lowering the thermostat, some negative consequences can arise.

  • Temperature effects on floriculture crops and energy consumption

    Published on November 15, 2006
    This article reviews the effects of temperature on production time of floriculture crops, especially annual bedding plants, and the impacts on greenhouse energy consumption for heating.