Infrared heating for greenhouse cultivation efficiently warms plants and soil, enhancing growth while reducing energy costs and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Infrared heating is revolutionizing greenhouse cultivation with its energy-efficient, targeted warmth. Unlike traditional systems that heat the air, infrared heaters warm plants directly through radiant energy. This method reduces energy waste while improving plant growth conditions.
How Infrared Heating Works in Greenhouses
Infrared heating systems emit electromagnetic waves that travel at light speed. These waves heat objects directly – plants, soil, benches – rather than warming the air first. The heated objects then radiate warmth throughout the greenhouse environment.
The Science Behind Infrared Plant Heating
Infrared radiation falls between visible light and microwaves on the electromagnetic spectrum. When absorbed by plants and surfaces, this energy converts to heat. The process mimics natural sunlight, making it particularly effective for plant growth.
Key Benefits of Direct Radiant Heating
- Energy savings of 30-50% compared to conventional systems
- More uniform temperature distribution
- Reduced heat stratification (no hot air rising to greenhouse peaks)
- Lower humidity levels decrease disease risks
Types of Infrared Greenhouse Heaters
Greenhouse operators can choose between two main infrared heater types, each with distinct characteristics:
| Type | Temperature Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| High-Intensity | 1600-1800°F (870-980°C) | Spot heating, small areas |
| Low-Intensity | Below 1500°F (815°C) | Uniform heating, larger spaces |
Advanced Heating Technologies (AHT) Systems
Recent innovations include flexible heating mats and ribbons that can be placed directly under plants. As seen in the Dutch Berries trial, these systems use special conductive metals to deliver precise root-zone heating.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Infrared systems can reduce energy consumption by 40-60% compared to traditional heating methods. The best electric quartz infrared systems achieve this through:
- Direct plant heating eliminates air circulation losses
- Ability to heat only specific zones as needed
- Compatibility with renewable energy sources
Case Study: Dutch Berries Strawberry Trial
The Zuilichem trial demonstrated several advantages:
- Earlier flowering and fruit production
- No negative effects on plant health or moisture levels
- Potential to utilize excess solar power during negative electricity pricing periods
Installation and Optimization Tips
Proper implementation maximizes infrared heating benefits:
Strategic Placement
Position heaters to create overlapping heat zones. For low-growing crops like strawberries, under-bench or substrate-level heating works best.
Insulation Strategies
As recommended by AHT, insulating the greenhouse underside reduces heat loss. Consider specialized greenhouse space heaters designed for horticultural applications.
Temperature Monitoring
Install multiple sensors at plant level, not just air temperature probes. Leaf and root zone measurements provide the most accurate data.
Crop-Specific Considerations
While infrared works well for most greenhouse crops, some perform exceptionally well:
Ideal Crops for Infrared Heating
- Bedding plants
- Potted crops
- Low-growing vegetables (lettuce, herbs)
- Strawberries (as demonstrated in Dutch trial)
Crops Requiring Special Attention
Tall crops may need supplemental heating at multiple heights. Vining plants like tomatoes benefit from combined infrared and air heating systems.
Future of Infrared in Greenhouse Horticulture
As energy costs rise and sustainability becomes paramount, infrared technology offers a viable path forward. The Dutch trials show particular promise for:
- Integration with renewable energy systems
- Precision heating for specific growth stages
- Reducing fossil fuel dependence in horticulture
With proper implementation, infrared heating can transform greenhouse operations, delivering both economic and agronomic benefits. As seen in the strawberry trial, the technology enables growers to “start somewhere” in their energy transition journey while maintaining crop quality and productivity.
