The main reason for growing orchids as cut flower or ornamental plant at an industrial level is its great appeal to a particular market sector and the high cost reaching at present. That is why has high economic importance worldwide.
The main commercial spices are: Cattleya, Cymbidium, Phalaenopsis and Vandas.
Most orchids has 2 growth patterns (monopolial and simpoidal growth).
Greenhouses and systems associated
High-tech Greenhouses Models: Chapel and Gothic Greenhouses.
Material: Transparent plastic, usually polyethylene (1000Lux light intensity on acclimation phase, and 5000 to 6000lux on flowering).
Nebulizers:
The relative humidity (acclimatization between 70% to 80%) is increased. Types of humidity sensors:
- Hair hygrometer
- Psychrometer
- Capacitive Sensors
- Optimum dew point hygrometer
- Chilled mirror sensor
Heating System
Heating systems are used with hot air generators (canyons), combined with control thermostats and control valves.
Climatic data were collected with temperature sensors automatable:
- Mechanical strength
- Thermistors
- Thermocouples
Orchids temperature inside the greenhouse (14 ° C min. And 28 ° C max) can be controlled with cooling-system (consisting of placing a screen made of porous material, positioned along the side or front of the greenhouse system. This screen is saturated with water through irrigation equipment).
Ventilation
For air destratification (axial fans).
Staking of floral branches
Staking of floral branches (floral stem are higher than the foliage). The clips for staking, are similar to the clips used in tomato crop, they are manufactured in black Polypropylene (Box size: 60x40x30 mm; units: 10,000 approx weight / piece 1.6 gr.).
Sprinkler irrigation.
Components:
- Pump unit:To get the right preassure and flow for installation.
- Filtering: the varying degrees of thickness filtration will be related with water quality, and the size of the spray.
- Fertilizer system.
- Pipes network.
- Sprinklers: The scope, flow rate and drop size will determine the choice of either model both circular and sectoral.
