Salinas, Irene and Hueso, Juan José and Cuevas, Julián (2021) Active Control of Greenhouse Climate Enhances Papaya Growth and Yield at an Affordable Cost. Agronomy, 11 (2). p. 378. ISSN 2073-4395
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Abstract
Papaya is a tropical fruit crop that in subtropical regions depends on protected cultivation to fulfill its climate requirements and remain productive. The aim of this work was to compare the profitability of different climate control strategies in greenhouses located in subtropical areas of southeast Spain. To do so, we compared papayas growing in a greenhouse equipped with active climate control (ACC), achieved by cooling and heating systems, versus plants growing in another greenhouse equipped with passive climate control (PCC), consisting of only natural ventilation through zenithal and lateral windows. The results showed that ACC favored papaya plant growth; flowering; fruit set; and, consequently, yields, producing more and heavier fruits at an affordable cost. Climate control strategies did not significantly improve fruit quality, specifically fruit skin color, acidity, and total soluble solids content. In conclusion, in the current context of prices, an active control of temperature and humidity inside the greenhouse could be a more profitable strategy in subtropical regions where open-air cultivation is not feasible.
Item Type: | Article |
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Subjects: | Euro Archives > Agricultural and Food Science |
Depositing User: | Managing Editor |
Date Deposited: | 01 Mar 2023 04:37 |
Last Modified: | 26 Jun 2024 06:25 |
URI: | http://publish7promo.com/id/eprint/1258 |