The benefits of artificial lighting

A high production can be better sustained or begins earlier or can be continued for a longer period. Year-round production becomes possible and labour can be employed at a more consistent level over the year. Blind budding (shoots without flowers on roses) is caused by a shortage of energy and can be diminished by extra light.

By using supplemental light, year-round cultivation or at least a much earlier start of cultivation in the season becomes possible.This results in an extended production period and makes you a more reliable supplier of your product to your client over the year. The prices for your product during the extended period are usually much higher.

Higher growth rate can reduce the harvest cycle of your crop by many weeks.This gain in time is especially profitable during the flowering phase, because the formation of flowers uses a lot of energy (example Chrysanthemum).

Because the greenhouse is in productive use for a longer period, and a higher plant density for plants such as tomato, cucumber, chrysanthemum is possible, the result is a higher yield per growth area.

Artificial lighting can produce stronger roots, larger and sturdier leaves and stem, more and bigger flowers with a better colour. Pot plants can be kept more compact with higher branching.The competitive position in the world market improves and the products can be sold for higher prices.

Young plant material is less sensitive to damage during handling and transportation.The vase-life of cut flowers usually increases. Pot plants transport better and withstand the (not optimal) conditions of the living room longer and better. Drying out of the buds or early fall of the flowers decreases (Poinsettia).

This results in a more efficient use of the growth area and a better distribution of labour over the year. Moreover the timing of supplying the client becomes more reliable. For example your Euphorbia should be ready before Christmas and not after…

Because plants are stronger, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Botrytis, Mildew and other fungi generally cause less harm to your crop.