Updated at: 14-03-2023 - By: Sienna Lewis

An excessive amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) is released into the atmosphere from greenhouses. If you’ve asked this question more than once, you’re probably trying to figure out how to get your greenhouse plants to mature faster.

In case you were wondering, carbon dioxide (CO2) is an essential part of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which your plants convert the energy from light into sugars that they can absorb and use for growth.

When you take out the crops, you’re also taking out the greenhouse’s source of carbon dioxide. Therefore, it is best to keep the carbon dioxide levels regularly refilled to ensure the health of the other greenhouse plants.

CO2 Usage of Greenhouses

Nighttime CO2 concentrations are typically higher than daytime ones because plants require CO2 for photosynthesis throughout the day. However, consumption rates vary depending on factors such as crop type, amount of light, temperature, and growth stage. But plants can take in between 0.12 and 0.24 kg of CO2 per hour per 100 square meters of plant surface.

Greenhouses and indoor farms benefit from having carbon dioxide levels of 800–1200 parts per million (ppm). Some farmers use as much as 1500 ppm in their greenhouses, but beyond that concentration, the benefits start to diminish. To avoid exceeding this threshold, many farms cap their CO2 output at 1200 ppm.

Optimal plant growth requires a specific concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2). Growers must keep sufficient levels of carbon dioxide in their greenhouses to prevent any disruptions in crop growth. Plants typically do not thrive in environments with carbon dioxide concentrations below 250 parts per million.

How to Implement CO2 to your Grow | CO2Meter.com

Ways to Supplement Carbon Dioxide in Your Greenhouse

Due to the large surface area of the environment outside a greenhouse, plants may thrive without CO2 supplementation. If, on the other hand, you’re cultivating your plants in a greenhouse for recreational purposes, things look very different. They will have to make do with the existing carbon dioxide in the confined space until the CO2 concentrations are significantly reduced, as there is not much spare room available.

By adding more carbon dioxide to the greenhouse atmosphere, a process known as “carbon dioxide supplementation” increases CO2 concentrations and boosts plant photosynthetic efficiency. Findings suggest a 40-100% increase in yield when CO2 levels inside a greenhouse are raised from 800 ppm to 1000 ppm.

If your greenhouse’s CO2 sensors detect a drop in concentration (from 150 ppm to below 800 ppm), you can add more carbon dioxide to the air.

Method #1: Burning fuels (i.e. propane and natural gas)

One of the most common methods of CO2 enhancement is the combustion of natural gasses and propane. These gases can be used to supplement your greenhouse’s carbon dioxide levels, so doing so is strongly recommended. Carbon dioxide released from the combustion of 1 m3 of natural gas is used by the plants, at a minimum, by 1.8 kg.

Method #2. Compressed CO2 tanks

An additional common technique for increasing CO2 concentration is the use of pressurized CO2 tanks. Greenhouse CO2 is transported from a vaporizer to the tanks via PVC pipes. In smaller greenhouses, CO2 can be released directly from a tank.

Method #3. Decomposition method

If you want to increase the CO2 concentration in your greenhouse, the decomposition method is another option to consider. Place organic wastes like food scraps in plastic containers, and over time, microbial action will produce CO2 for the plants to use. In order to give your plants the exact amount of carbon dioxide they need, you’ll need to use a large volume of substrate, which comes with its own set of challenges, such as the possibility of unpleasant odors.

Advantages of Growing Plants Inside a Hobby Greenhouse

A hobby greenhouse is a great place to start when looking for a place to grow plants. If you have one, you can exert more control over the surrounding environment, resulting in healthier, more productive crops. More crops can be cultivated and harvested as a result.

Extra benefits of greenhouse plant cultivation include the following:

You can grow any type of plants

With a greenhouse at your disposal, you can cultivate any plant you can imagine as a hobby. By utilizing a greenhouse, you can cultivate either warm-season or cool-season plants year-round. With the ability to regulate the greenhouse’s climate, your plants will flourish no matter the season.

Increased production

A hobby greenhouse allows you to provide optimal conditions for plant development. A tenfold increase in harvests is possible when carbon dioxide is introduced into the atmosphere.

Protection from harsh weather conditions and predators

With a hobby greenhouse, you can rest assured that your plants will be safe from any harsh conditions. The enclosure will shield your crops from damage during even the most severe storms. Greenhouses for hobbies offer protection from avian and mammalian predators like birds, deer, and squirrels.

1. Sizing: do you need a starter or a grower greenhouse?

To what end are you working? It’s possible that you’re avoiding nature because of the high cost and limited availability of seedlings. You’ve been fantasizing about starting your own seeds indoors in a warm environment to give them the best possible head start before the local spring blooms. In this case, a smaller greenhouse could serve as sufficient “starter” greenhouse. Your only expenses will be for a potting bench, some soil, and seeds.

If this is the case, you may be ready to increase your garden’s output. Think of a greenhouse as the workhorse of the plant grower’s toolkit, the place where seeds are planted, where plants are nurtured to maturity, and where the harvest is collected. The “grower” configuration (described below) calls for more space (exactly how much is up to you) and different glazing.

It’s possible that, due to environmental constraints, you’ll never be able to grow the kinds of plants you’ve always dreamed of. Rows of fresh, living greens can be grown in elevated planters even in the dead of winter.

Vegetables grown in greenhouses can be harvested months before their outdoor counterparts, and may be available at your local farmer’s market. Plan accordingly if this is the case. There are various greenhouse kit options to choose from.

A cold frame can be easily moved from one garden bed to another, providing frost protection for tender seedlings. To reap the benefits of a controlled environment without the commitment of a large greenhouse, you can construct your own portable cloche. These little add-ons don’t require a building permit or a foundation, but their utility and storage space are restricted.

Just how big would be excessive? A wide variety of walk-in options are available, starting with the compact 4’x6′ “Nature Greenhouse” and progressing in size to the more substantial 10’x12′ “Chalet Style Greenhouse” and the enormous 20’x16′ “Conservatory.

Your greenhouse should be as large as your site and budget will allow. If you choose the lesser of two evils, you will quickly come to regret it. Take into account whether or not your garden beds have expanded in size since they were first planted. The majority of us, each year, push ourselves to new limits. It’s not easy to make more space in a greenhouse, but as we get older, our gardening ambitions tend to rise along with our fervor.

2. Glazing choices: should the panels be opaque or clear?

There are a few different types of greenhouse panels that can be used. Adjusting the brightness of your plant grow lights is possible with these options.

If you want to start plants indoors and eventually move them outside, clear panels are the way to go. The emergence of your new beginnings will be swifter, and it will be a strong, energizing beginning. Panels made of single-walled polycarbonate and glass allow light through but do not scatter it. Snap & Grow provides a polycarbonate greenhouse in a number of lengths, and each one is crystal clear.

Diffused light is ideal for growing plants to full maturity. While plants grown in a variety of Solexx options are able to maximize photosynthesis, they typically take on a more compact form rather than stretching upwards toward the light. Light travels through multi-walled polycarbonate and polyethylene conduits with ease.

As a middle ground, greenhouses with semi-diffused covers are frequently used for their dual functionality. There is a path to the middle of these two dark places. Riverstone and RIGA both manufacture semi-diffused homes that can be lived in year-round. Diffused roofs with clear sides are great for cooler months when the sun is lower in the sky, like spring and fall.

3. Insulation and design: how’s the winter weather?

Icy, snowy winters

Vegetables need to be well-insulated under cover if they are to be grown year-round in an area with frost and snow. Multiple-walled polycarbonate (usually double or triple) is used for this because the air gaps between the layers provide excellent insulation.

Polyethylene is a great alternative to hard polycarbonate because it provides diffused light and excellent insulation. The Solexx polyethylene greenhouses come in a variety of shapes and sizes. In frigid areas, snowfall is a real possibility, so make sure the model you’re considering has a high enough snow-load rating to withstand a blizzard without collapsing.

Mild winters

If you live in an area with mild winters, or if you’re looking for a “season extender” (a place to germinate and nurture new plants in early spring when external temperatures are still uncertain), insulation isn’t necessary. You can achieve the same result with either single-walled polycarbonate or tempered glass. Do not install glass windows or doors if you live in an area prone to hail storms or where high winds can break off branches or fling ice.

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. The substance photodegrades quickly, and the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Even if you’re just using insulation to extend the season, you’ll see a significant increase in energy savings.

What is CO2 Enrichment? | CO2Meter.com

Dealing with wind

Although polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination and short lifespan are drawbacks, the material is frequently used because it affords a cost-effective means of lighting a space. Strong winds or falling branches can easily tear the film, and the substance quickly deteriorates in the sun. While it may appear inexpensive at first, you’ll have to account for the expense and inconvenience of replacing the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of the intended use (season extension or otherwise).

Despite its semi-diffused illumination and short lifespan, polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its low installation cost and low maintenance requirements. The substance photodegrades quickly, and the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. At first glance, this option may seem cost-effective; however, it is important to consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Insulation will increase efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

4. Logistics and landscape: your site, your zoning, your neighborhood.

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. Although the initial investment may seem low, you must consider the time and effort required to replace the film every few years. Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Semi-diffused light from polyethelene film is a popular low-cost option because of its low price and short lifespan. In addition to being easily torn by wind or falling branches, the film also quickly photodegrades in sunlight. On the surface, it appears inexpensive; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Semi-diffused light is provided by polyethelene film, which is a popular low-cost option because of its short lifespan and lack of durability. The film is easily torn by strong winds or falling branches, and the substance quickly photodegrades in sunlight. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective, but you must also consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). As an added bonus, insulation will improve energy efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the season.

In spite of its semi-diffused illumination and relatively short lifespan, polyethelene film is a frequently used, low-priced lighting solution. Since the material photodegrades rapidly, the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. Affordability is deceptive because it doesn’t take into account the time and effort required to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Plus, whether or not you plan to use insulation as a season extender, you’ll notice a significant improvement in energy savings.

Even though polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination lasts only a few years and wears out quickly, it’s often used because of its low cost and relatively short lifespan. Aside from being easily torn or ruined by bad weather or falling branches, the film also quickly deteriorates when exposed to light. At first glance, it could be cost-effective, but you have to consider the time and money spent replacing the film every few years. Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

5. Reputation and service: know who made your greenhouse.

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. As well as being vulnerable to physical damage from elements like wind and rain, or even just falling branches, the film also quickly deteriorates when exposed to light. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must also consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). To add to that, insulation will increase efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the season.

  • Semi-diffused light from polyethelene film is a popular low-cost option because of its low price and short lifespan. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.
  • While polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination and short lifespan aren’t ideal, the material’s low cost and high availability make it a popular choice for low-cost interior lighting. It is easily torn or ruined by storms or falling branches, and the material quickly deteriorates in the sun. At first glance, it could be cost-effective, but you should consider the time and effort required to replace the film every few years. As an added bonus, insulation will improve energy efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the season.
  • Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, this option may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.
  • The semi-diffused light that polyethelene film emits, combined with its low price and short lifespan, makes it a popular choice for temporary or temporary lighting. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). In addition, adding insulation will boost efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the season.
  • Polyethelene film is commonly used because it can illuminate a room cheaply while providing semi-diffused light for a relatively short period of time. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. The cost and hassle of replacing the film frequently (every 1-6 years) should be factored in, despite the initial low price tag. Insulation will increase efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Even though polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination lasts only a few years and wears out quickly, it remains a popular low-priced lighting option due to its affordability. The substance photodegrades rapidly, and the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. At first glance, this option may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Even if you’re just using insulation to extend the season, you’ll see a significant increase in energy savings.

FAQs

Do Greenhouses inject CO2?

Even though polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination lasts only a few years and wears out quickly, it’s a popular low-priced lighting option because of its low price and high utility. The film is easily torn by strong winds or falling branches, and the material quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

How do you maintain CO2 in a greenhouse?

The semi-diffused light that polyethelene film emits, combined with its low price and short lifespan, makes it a popular choice for temporary or temporary lighting. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Even if you’re just using insulation to extend the season, you’ll see a significant increase in energy savings.

Can too much CO2 hurt plants?

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. The substance photodegrades quickly, and the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must also consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

What is the optimal level of CO2 in the atmosphere?

Light from polyethelene film is semi-diffused, but it has a short lifespan and is easily damaged, making it an attractive low-cost option for lighting a room. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Do plants grow better in high CO2?

In spite of its semi-diffused illumination and relatively short lifespan, polyethelene film is a frequently used, low-priced lighting solution. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, regular film replacements (every 1-6 years) add up quickly in both money and time. In addition, whether or not you plan to use insulation as a season extender, you will see a significant improvement in energy savings.

How can plants produce more CO2?

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. Aside from being easily torn or ruined by bad weather or falling branches, the film also quickly deteriorates when exposed to light. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

At what CO2 level do plants die?

While polyethelene film’s semi-diffused illumination and short lifespan aren’t ideal, the material’s low cost and high availability make it a popular choice for low-cost interior lighting. The substance photodegrades quickly, and the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. The cost and hassle of replacing the film frequently (every 1-6 years) should be factored in, despite the initial low price tag. Also, adding insulation will improve efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the use of the space during the winter.

Can plants live in 100 CO2?

Polyethelene film, which offers semi-diffused light but has a short lifespan and is not very durable, is frequently used as an inexpensive means of lighting a room. Damage to the film can be caused by things like harsh weather or falling branches, and it quickly photodegrades in sunlight. At first glance, it could be cost-effective, but you should consider the time and effort required to replace the film every few years. Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

How much CO2 is toxic to plants?

Polyethelene film, which offers semi-diffused lighting but has a short lifespan and is easily damaged, is frequently used because it is an inexpensive way to light a room. The film is easily torn by strong winds or falling branches, and the substance quickly photodegrades in sunlight. Although the initial investment may seem low, you must consider the time and effort required to replace the film every few years. Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

How Greenhouses Can Use CO2 to Increase Yields by up to 30%

Summary: How Much CO2 Do Greenhouses Use?

Semi-diffused light from polyethelene film is a popular low-cost option because of its low price and short lifespan. Because of how quickly the material photodegrades, the film is easily damaged or torn by harsh weather or falling branches. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Polyethelene film, which offers semi-diffused light but has a short lifespan and is not very durable, is frequently used as an inexpensive means of lighting a room. Severe weather or falling branches can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). In addition, adding insulation will boost efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the use of the space during the winter.

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. The film is easily torn by strong winds or falling branches, and the substance quickly photodegrades in sunlight. The cost and hassle of replacing the film frequently (every 1-6 years) should be factored in, despite the initial low price tag. Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Semi-diffused light from polyethelene film is a popular low-cost option because of its low price and short lifespan. The film is easily torn or ruined by storms or falling branches, and the substance quickly deteriorates in the sun. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective, but you must also consider the expense and inconvenience of regularly (every 1-6 years) replacing the film. In addition, adding insulation will boost efficiency even if you’re just using it to extend the use of the space during the winter.

Polyethelene film is a popular low-cost lighting option because of its semi-diffused light, short lifespan, and lack of durability. Extreme conditions, such as falling branches, can easily damage or tear the film, and the substance quickly photodegrades. Although the initial investment may seem low, you must consider the time and effort required to replace the film every few years. Insulation will increase efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.

Semi-diffused lighting from polyethelene film is a popular low-cost option because of its low price and short lifespan. The film is easily torn by strong winds or falling branches, and the material quickly photodegrades. At first glance, it may seem cost-effective; however, you must consider the expense and inconvenience of having to replace the film frequently (every 1-6 years). Adding insulation will improve efficiency regardless of whether you use it year-round or just to extend the season.