The Science of Agricultural Covers: Boosting Plant Growth Potential

Light Transmission: Illuminating Plant Growth

A primary function of covers is to regulate light transmission. Different materials have distinct properties that affect the amount and type of light that crops receive.

Polycarbonate Panels: Provides ample light transmission and better insulation compared to plastic covers. They often include UV protection layers to prevent degradation and prolong working timespan. 

Plastic Films: These covers, typically made from polyethylene or similar polymers, have varying levels of light transmission depending on their thickness and additives. Some plastic films actively block UV rays, while others evenly diffuse light to reduce shadows and promote uniform plant growth. 

UbiGro Covers: UbiGro covers use advanced materials to enhance the light for plant growth. These covers utilize photoluminescent technology to convert UV and blue light into red and orange wavelengths, which are more efficient for photosynthesis. This results in improved plant growth, increased yields, and sped up life cycles for quicker crop turnover.  

Heat Retention: The Greenhouse Effect in Action

Greenhouses work by trapping heat, a process known as the greenhouse effect. Cover material significantly influences heat retention in plant growth environments.

Polycarbonate Panels: Highly efficient at heat retention due to their insulating properties. Multi-wall polycarbonate panels create air pockets between the layers, which act as a buffer to reduce heat transfer from inside to outside of the structure. This design makes polycarbonate panels especially suitable for colder climates. 

Plastic Films: Lightweight and can retain heat effectively, though they may need replacement every few years due to wear and tear. Innovations in plastic films have led to materials that better trap infrared radiation, enhancing heat retention.

UbiGro Covers: Lightweight and have similar heat retention to plastic films.

Moisture Control: Balancing Humidity and Condensation

Maintaining optimal humidity levels is crucial for plant health and water usage, affecting plant disease pressure, and water evapotranspiration from leaves and substrate. Choice of cover material impacts moisture control within the greenhouse.

Polycarbonate Panels: Less prone to condensation due to their insulation properties. Some panels come with anti-fog treatments to prevent moisture accumulation.

Plastic Films: Often include anti-drip coatings that reduce condensation buildup. They can also regulate humidity by allowing controlled water vapor permeability.

UbiGro Covers: Include anti-condensate additive to prevent condensation.