What are the benefits of greenhouse grown produce?

Answer

One of the biggest benefits of greenhouse produce is the ability to supply fresh delicious produce, all year long! This is due to the produce being grown in a controlled high-tech environment. Meaning it’s not as reliant on the climate outside like traditional growing methods. Greenhouse-grown also allows for greater consistency across crops, and a uniform flavor and shape.

At Red Sun Farms we try to minimize our waste whenever possible. Our tomato production uses up to five times less water than what is required for field production. 75%-85% of that water is rainwater that has been gathered from the roofs of our greenhouses. Water that is not used by the plant is sterilized, reconditioned, and recycled back into the greenhouse. This is huge when you consider that each plant consumes 1L – 2L of water per day, and up to 3L of water in the heat of the summer.

In addition to reusing renewable resources like water, high-tech greenhouse structures and strict protocols virtually eliminate the need to use pesticides. Instead, they use what are called IPM (Integrated Pest Management) whenever possible. If a harmful insect is found in the greenhouse, good bugs (such as ladybugs) are introduced. They protect our plants and eliminate the threat of harmful bugs. High-tech greenhouses also naturally pollinate with the use of bumblebees. Using bumblebees increases crop yield, improves quality, and reduces labor overall.

Many greenhouse plants are grown hydroponically, without the use of conventional soil. This growing technique lessens the strain on natural resources by using up to 95% less water per pound of yield than field crops of the same type.

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