Description of various structure options for organic produce production.

1. Growing Organic
Produce in Greenhouses

2.  The type of structure used is dependent on
long term goals and budget
 Coldframe and Freestanding greenhouses
have a lower capital cost
 Gutter Connected greenhouses provide a
better environment due to larger air
volume and allows for expansion
Planning Considerations
Structures:

3.  Make sure climate is a factor when
choosing the best ventilation option for
your greenhouse
 Fans and pads keep plants from being
stressed
 HVF (HAF) fans aid in good air circulation
 Increased gutter height adds larger air
volume and better humidity control for
healthy plants
Ventilation:

4.  Where possible grow on benches to
maximize efficient space usage
 Growing on benches can provide better air
flow and heat convection
 Benches can be either stationary or rolling
 A variety of options available to suit growing
needs from expanded metal covering, ebb
and flood trays to irrigation troughs
 Extremely durable compared to wooden
benches
Benches:

5.  Hydronic heat provides better humidity
control and less fungal problems
 Under bench heating provides uniform
temperatures and reduces fuel costs
 Investing in a high efficiency condensing
boiler will result in more long term savings
Heating Systems:
 Consider a dehumidification unit
depending on your climate
Dehumidification:

6.  Automated controls (computer)
 Curtain systems
 Irrigation systems
All these help to ensure a consistent
and uniform crop.
Additional Features:

7.  A clean operation means less
battle with insects
 Keep weeds under control outside
of the greenhouse to prevent
external pests
 Happy and healthy plants will
grow faster and have better
resistance to pests and disease
Keep It Clean:

8.  There are many resources available
to new growers:
 Online-learning
 University agricultural programs
 USDA technical assistance
programs
Resources for New Growers:

9. Future Expansion:
 It’s always important to look to the
future – where do you see yourself in 5
years time?
 How will you expand
 Will you need water storage for
irrigation run-off
 Future shipping and receiving needs
 Future labor availability
 Future sales opportunities

10. Structure Options

11.  Excellent structure for first time growers as well
as large scale production
 Easy to build on site, add-ons can be use to
extend length
 Variety of covering options available from poly to
shade cloth
 High quality steel arches provide long lasting
protection from rust and corrosion
Coldframe Structures
Key Features:

13.  Suitable for use in all climates
 Ideal for growers with multiple crops
 Economical growing space
 Side and double ridge vents allow
natural air flow
 Sloped arch optimizes usable space
Freestanding Greenhouses
Key Features:

15.  Versatile greenhouse, ideal for
vegetable crops
 Arched gothic peak provides
condensation control
 Most efficient airflow provided by
gutter vents and other natural
ventilation
 Most economical option for large scale
growers
Gutter Connected Greenhouses
Key Features:

17.  Keep pests out and reduce pesticide use
 Keep biologicals inside
 Roof vent screens allow ventilation while
limiting biologicals movement
 Easy installation and maintenance
 Can be added to side-walls and lean-to
structures
Special Features: Insect Screening
Key Features:

19. Benefits of USDA
Organic Certification

20.  One of the largest growing agricultural segments
 Receive premium prices for produce
 Access local, regional, and international markets
 Additional access to funding and technical
assistance programs
 Protect natural resources
 Support local economies
USDA Organic Certification

21. We’re here to
help you grow!
For further questions contact us at:
ggsstructures.com
sales@ggsstructures.com
(905) 562-7341