5 reasons to give double screening a second look

European growers have long known and utilized the benefits of double screening, but the North American horticulture industry is just beginning to experience its power. Major double screening installations going in at greenhouses in Ohio and British Columbia may have you asking if the technique is right for you – and rightfully so. Here are five reasons to give double screening some serious consideration.

Sunscreen for the greenhouse. Liken double screening to sunscreen – you use 15 or 50 SPF depending on the season, amount of light and position of the sun. Double screening gives you the ability to target energy savings and shade using the same system.

Energy savings without compromise. No more choosing between light or shade when you want energy savings; double screening lets you have the best of both worlds. In a two-year European trial, greenhouses consumed 24.7 m³/m² in gas compared to average commercial greenhouse gas consumption of 34 m³/m².

Pumped up productivity. In addition to the light and energy benefits that come with double screening, a little known benefit comes in increased productivity. Research shows plants develop up to 15% faster, producing fruit three days faster than the norm.

Mix & match performance. Double screening lets you customize your climate, by pulling one, both or either screen. You select the ones that suit your greenhouse best, then use as you see fit, such as reflective and blackout screens, which Nature Fresh Farms is installing at the new 15.3 acre range they’re building in Ohio.

Light emission shutdown. Double screening has the potential to reduce light emission to as low as 0.1%. If you’re in areas regulated by light pollution laws, or you have close neighbors, double screening will be your friend.

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