Stabilizing summer temperatures and DLI for better yield: Robotic precision coating via drones
Source: HD.com
"Robotic precision coating creates highly uniform light diffusion while avoiding the excessive shading density often seen with conventional methods." The technology also supports more stable internal climate conditions during peak summer radiation periods, helping growers maintain consistent DLI levels across the greenhouse. Gennadii shares that a high-tech 1-hectare greenhouse complex in Poland recently transitioned to a seasonal DaaS program for external shading applications.
© AgroDrone Europe AgroDrone Europe preparation to apply shading agent on Polish commercial glasshouse "Growers need to understand that an internal shading screen and an external reflective coating are not the same thing; they are a combined, comprehensive solution for summer heat management," the grower explains. Drones completely removed that physical risk." Thermal control and yield improvements The contact-free drone application process eliminates mechanical stress on greenhouse structures and aluminum gutters.
Operational results from the Polish greenhouse included a 5.5°C reduction in peak internal temperatures and complete coverage of the 10,000 m² facility in only three flight hours. The grower also reported an 8% increase in Class-A produce output.
Why this matters: For operators, this is a water-management story. The useful signal is that direct substrate measurements can help cut drain loss materially without giving up yield or fruit quality, which is exactly the kind of controllable efficiency gain a facility can build on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does substrate sensing matter in free-drain strawberry systems?
Because drain percentage tells a grower what already happened, while substrate moisture and EC data show root-zone conditions directly. That makes it easier to cut water loss without guessing.
What is the operator takeaway from this trial?
If the thresholds are understood well enough, growers can reduce drain water materially while protecting yield and fruit quality, which makes sensing an operational tool instead of a reporting tool.
