HOW CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) INFLUENCES GREENHOUSE CULTIVATION

CO2 is essential for photosynthesis in plants. The supply of CO2 is very important for the correct development of the crop, in addition to water and light.

Increasing the CO2 concentration inside a greenhouse increases photosynthetic activity, which results in an increase in earliness, yield, production (around 15-25%) and crop quality. For a good assimilation of CO2, the most important factor is solar radiation, although ventilation, temperature and humidity also play a role. 

To produce optimum quality and quantity, the plant requires a CO2 concentration of 700-1000 ppm. However, the concentration outdoors isa round 350-380 ppm, and inside the greenhouse it can be as low as 100 ppm wihout good ventilation. 

When solar rediation increases and other conditions are suitables, photosynthetic activity increases in such a way that, if the greenhouse Windows remain closed, the CO2 concentration of the greenhouse air decreases below the CO2 concentration outside, at which point photosynthetic activity drops, ore ven stops due to CO2 deficiency. 

This results in a loss of production and a delayed harvest. Hence the importance os applying CO2 at the right time. 

Taking into account indoor and outdoor climatic variables, the CO2 dosage can be corrected according to radiation, temperature, humidity, wind speed, etc… thanks to the monitoring of the crop through sensors and climate control equipment. Ore ven the application of CO2 can be stopped if the climatic conditions in the greenhouse do not allow the plant to open its stomata.