Water disinfection in greenhouses

Technology for Sustainable Agriculture

In greenhouse cultivation systems, water is one of the most important elements to ensure healthy and optimal crop growth. However, drainage water, if not properly disinfected, can become a significant risk to plant health, as it can contain pathogens, bacteria and other contaminants that affect crop quality and yield. Reusing untreated water in closed irrigation systems can lead to the spread of diseases, compromising crop productivity and quality.
Disinfection of water in greenhouses is therefore essential to prevent these problems and ensure a safe and efficient growing environment.

At J. Huete Greenhouses, we are specialists in advanced water treatment solutions tailored to the needs of each crop. We offer disinfection technologies that allow drainage water to be purified, making it reusable and reducing the risk of disease in the irrigation system. With our disinfection systems, growers can count on a reliable and high-performance solution to optimize their irrigation process and protect their agricultural investments.

Why is Water Disinfection Important in Greenhouses?

Untreated water in greenhouse irrigation systems can contain a variety of pathogens, bacteria, and salts that pose a serious threat to crop health and yield. When drainage water is reused without disinfection, these contaminants can build up in the irrigation system, increasing the risk of disease spreading among plants. Not only does this reduce crop quality, but it can also put a grower’s investment at risk by negatively affecting overall crop growth and yield.

Water disinfection in greenhouses allows drainage water to be safely reused, contributing to less use of water resources and promoting more sustainable farming practices. With a proper disinfection system, farmers can ensure that the water reaching their plants is free of contaminants, which not only prevents disease, but also protects irrigation system components, reducing wear and tear on pipes and drippers. Thus, the benefits of water disinfection encompass both sustainability and environmental protection as well as improved efficiency and safety in farming operations.

Water Disinfection Methods for Greenhouses

To ensure that water used in greenhouses is free of pathogens and contaminants, there are various disinfection techniques. Each method has its own particularities and advantages, allowing growers to choose the system that best suits their specific needs. Below are the three main water disinfection techniques in greenhouses: ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, hypochlorous acid disinfection, and hydrogen peroxide disinfection.

Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection

UV disinfection uses ultraviolet radiation to inactivate microorganisms in water. This process relies on UV light’s ability to penetrate the DNA of bacteria, viruses and other pathogens, preventing their replication and thus eliminating their ability to cause infections in plants.

Benefits of UV disinfection:

  • High efficiency without chemicals: UV radiation eliminates pathogens without the need for chemicals, making it safe and avoiding the accumulation of residues in crops.
  • Saving water and energy: This method requires low energy levels and does not generate polluting by-products, which contributes to sustainability.
  • Easy integration into irrigation systems: UV systems can be easily adapted to existing irrigation configurations, simplifying their installation and maintenance.

Key components of a UV system:

  • Sand filters to remove suspended solids and improve UV lamp efficiency.
  • Low-pressure UV lamp that emits radiation to deactivate microorganisms.
  • UV intensity sensor that monitors the effectiveness of radiation and ensures constant water treatment.

Disinfection with Hypochlorous Acid

Hypochlorous acid is a very effective disinfectant agent, widely used in agriculture to disinfect irrigation water. This compound eliminates bacteria, fungus and other microorganisms quickly and efficiently, ensuring that irrigation water is safe for plants.

Benefits of hypochlorous acid:

  • Effectiveness against bacteria and fungus: It is highly effective against a wide range of pathogens, protecting crops from diseases.
  • Affordability and ease of application: It is economical to use and its application is simple, making it an accessible option for greenhouse growers.

Importance of dosing control: Maintaining proper control of chlorine levels is essential to prevent excess hypochlorous acid from negatively affecting plants. Automatic dosing systems are an ideal solution to adjust chlorine concentration and maximize crop safety.

Disinfection with Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that, when decomposed into oxygen and water, leaves no toxic residue. It is an ecological and effective method of disinfection, especially suitable for closed irrigation systems in greenhouses.

Benefits of hydrogen peroxide:

  • Ecological method: As it decomposes without generating toxic by-products, it is a safe option for the environment.
  • Versatility in different types of water and crops: It can be used in water of different qualities and is effective on a wide variety of crops.

Adapting hydrogen peroxide for use in greenhouses requires proper dosage control and regular monitoring to ensure that the concentration is effective against microorganisms, without affecting the plants. This method is ideal for greenhouses operating with closed systems, where water quality and sustainability are essential.

Advantages of Using Water Disinfection Systems in Greenhouses

Better irrigation quality: Water disinfection ensures irrigation with clean and safe water, eliminating pathogens and contaminants that could affect crop health.

Reduced risk of disease: By reducing the pathogen load in the water, it significantly decreases the spread of plant diseases.

Resource savings: Allows for efficient reuse of drainage water, reducing consumption and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Longer irrigation system life: Prevents the buildup of sediment and pathogens in pipes and drippers, which prolongs the durability of the equipment and keeps the system running optimally.

Components of a Greenhouse Water Disinfection System

It is essential to adapt these components to the type of crop and specific climatic conditions to maximize system efficiency and plant health.

Pretreatment filters: Remove suspended particles and solids, preparing the water for effective disinfection.

Main disinfection system: It can be UV, hypochlorous acid or hydrogen peroxide, depending on the technique chosen to eliminate pathogens.

Control sensors: Monitor disinfectant levels, ensuring safe and effective operation.

Storage tanks: They store treated water until it is needed for irrigation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Water Disinfection in Greenhouses

  • What level of disinfection is needed to reuse drainage water?
    The level of disinfection needed depends on the type of crop and the initial water quality. Generally, pathogens are eliminated and contaminants are reduced to ensure that the water is safe for irrigation.
  • What is the cost and maintenance of a water disinfection system?
    Cost and maintenance vary depending on the technology used (UV, hypochlorous, hydrogen peroxide) and the size of the system. A well-designed system allows for long-term resource savings.
  • Which crops benefit most from water disinfection?
    Most crops benefit from safe irrigation, but those sensitive to disease, such as vegetables, fruits, and high-value plants, benefit most.
  • Which disinfection method is best suited for my greenhouse?
    This depends on factors such as crop type, environmental conditions, and reuse needs. A personalized assessment can help select the best option.

At J. Huete Greenhouses we are ready to help you implement the ideal water disinfection system for your greenhouse.

Contact us for personalized advice and a free consultation on water treatment systems tailored to your needs.

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