For the second year in a row, Cultivators organized, with the support of GreenTech Americas in Mexico to help lead the conversation around hydroponic leafy greens in Latin America. Together with partners and speakers from across the value…
Published on 23/05/2025
In this interview, Vincent Kickert, Cultivators Climate Specialist, shares essential insights into climate control. With extensive experience in climate system design, greenhouse project development, and climate expertise, he offers a unique perspective on effective climate management. For more information about Vincent, please read our first interview by clicking here.
Climate control in greenhouses demands precision, often requiring temperature differences of less than 1℃ across the entire facility. Even minor variations can impact plant growth rates, influencing many subsequent factors and the eventual yield. With numerous approaches and solutions available, understanding the underlying physics is crucial for effective implementation.
A thermal image that shows warm components (heating pipes, greenhouse structures) and plants that are colder. Note that not all heating pipes were found to be running at identical settings, with a small but influential deviation between settings.
A frequent question is whether additional cooling, heating, or dehumidification is necessary. Vincent emphasizes, “It is essential to apply climate system principles correctly to a specific setup. When faced with climate challenges, adding more systems may seem like the solution, but a critical evaluation is necessary before installation. If not properly integrated, new systems might not resolve the issue and could even introduce new challenges. However, when executed correctly, their combined effect can be greater than the sum of their parts.”
Each component must work harmoniously with the existing hardware, climate control systems, and, most importantly, the plants themselves. Vincent explains, “Ultimately, a product only becomes a ‘solution’ when it strengthens the overall system. Integration between different systems should be the focus. Without integration, even the most advanced solutions may not perform as expected.”
Vincent highlights, “Dehumidification, in particular, requires careful consideration. It consumes energy and is not a universal fix for climate control. Understanding where energy is directed and its cost implications is essential. The goal is to create a balanced climate. For example, adjusting screening strategies in relation to humidity levels can reduce the need for frequent ventilation and heating.”
Heating and cooling are interdependent aspects of climate control. While bringing in cold air removes moisture, it must be (re)heated before reaching the greenhouse. Similarly, drying chambers require heating capacity to effectively evaporate moisture; otherwise, they can only cool. This interconnectedness underscores the importance of consulting specialists who understand both plant physiology and climate systems.
Horticulture thrives on innovation and experience. When aligned, these two elements greatly complement each other. Vincent adds a critical note, “Blending old and new ideas does not always yield the desired results. Some companies attempt to modernize traditional approaches, but it is critical to evaluate whether a solution is genuinely effective for a specific situation. Always ask for an explanation—how does this affect airflow? What is being stimulated in my climate? What are the potential benefits or drawbacks?”
Conducting a thorough analysis during the design phase can lead to significant cost savings before construction begins. Early discussions allow all parties to evaluate how each component integrates into the overall system. Do not hesitate to ask how and why a proposed system works. Proper optimization before installation can yield savings in three critical areas: capital expenditure (CAPEX), operational expenditure (OPEX), and yield. By prioritizing careful design, calculations, and integration, growers can reduce both investment and operational costs while maximizing production efficiency. Avoid the pitfall of focusing on only one of these three; the overall project’s success is defined by their combination, not whether the yield is astronomical.
Climate systems are inherently complex, making collaboration with knowledgeable suppliers and specialists essential. Without a clear understanding of how a system contributes to overall performance, even the most sophisticated solutions can fall short. Always verify that a system is designed to fit your specific setup, ensuring its effectiveness and supportiveness in your current situation.
Feel free to reach out if you want to confirm that your project is designed correctly or if your current climate systems are not delivering the expected results. We would be happy to assist in optimizing your greenhouse environment, both on-site and remotely. Please click here to contact us.