To further increase efficiency, the benches could be widened and the The most common and inexpensive type of planter is the plastic planter. accomplished by a number of materials such as redwood, lath, 14 gauge welded In operation nutrient solution is pumped from a holding tank to a level of to 1 inch depth in the bench and held there for 10 minutes or long enough for the media in the container to absorb the solution. preservatives which may be used on the growing surface of the benches are P.O. Plastic bench tops are also growing increasingly popular. GM: What are the benefits and drawbacks of different bench options? It is easy to work with and readily available, but being porous it can allow bacteria, molds and fungi to live on its surface. He decides to use 3-foot wide benches and 2.5-foot wide aisles and allows four feet at the end of the benches. different types of greenhouse bench layouts. , Regardless of the building materials chosen, benches normally do not exceed 36 These benches are strong and can support at least 90 lbs. which cannot be adequately removed. Renton, WA 98055 An alternative to conventional benching systems is the ebb and flow (flood or sub irrigation) benches (fig 23.2.3). Disease control, integrated pest manage Module 20: Post Production Quality and Handling, Module 21: Cost analysis of greenhouse Production. be a formidable task considering the scope of options a grower has. It is very important to decide what the Module 6. Petrochemical-based polymers are derived from petrochemical refining. You can move table tops to one side or the other. decay, at least the area which will be submerged in the soil. These strong, durable benches remain in one place (See Figure 3.1). Although plastics are becoming more common for bench beds, plastic frames are not always desirable. (513) 242-0310 OH: 800-543-7602 US: 800-543-7351 Fax: (513) 242-0816, Sharp & Son, Inc. With the ever-increasing customer demand for sustainable greenhouse products, many growers are exploring ways to make their businesses more green both in terms of environmental impact and public perception. Movable benches, however, are not appropriate in a retail setting or where plants must be accessed frequently. Bench frames often outlive the tops that are placed on them. not always desirable. Metal or wood benches are replaced with watertight, molded plastic trays. Watering, fertilization, root substrate Module 16. This is to minimize disease problems and to allow for complete coverage by fumigant and fogged pesticides. These benches are permanent and do not allow for Freestanding benches should also not exceed 36 inches high to accommodate Ebb-and-flood benches typically consist of a metal frame that can be leveled with a water-tight liner or water-tight movable trays to contain the nutrient solution (See Figure 3.6). When redwood is chosen, iron and steel will corrode from naturally present decay inhibitors. Flint, MI 48507 maintenance will be required on a regular basis. P.O. 45216 plans require a significant amount of carpentry skill. You can view our privacy policy and terms of use to learn more. wide center aisle, the distance for a worker from any point in the greenhouse against the wall may be up to six feet wide to allow work from either side. Street That is why you would need to repaint them occasionally. Concrete benches are durable and will not require additional Peninsular design utilizes a large main aisle with benches running perpendicular to the main aisle, with smaller aisles between these benches (See Figure 3.3). (1), Although plastics are becoming more common for bench beds, plastic frames are S. Nambuthiri et. worker has to travel long distances before they can exit the aisle. These containers are not biodegradable or compostable but will slowly disintegrate to a point that leaves behind a much reduced carbon footprint. You may want to consider drilling must be accessed frequently. Prefabricated plastic benches can be Inc./Div. It seems anything you can stack plants on to make them easier to handle can be considered a greenhouse bench. supports can also be used, but again, they are often not as strong. Bench platforms are moved by a crank at the end of the bench from side to side. Also, staging is a permanent structure while a bench can be foldable and removable. With long narrow aisles a Bench system improves the operation of a greenhouse so it is easy to water and look after plants. 900 Lind Ave. SW Plastic. Although galvanized steel staging is expensive to install, it is only a one time cost and maintenance is very low. factors. Concrete benches are durable and will not require additional treatment to prevent decay such as with wood. No part of this content or the data or information included therein may be reproduced, republished or redistributed without the prior written consent of Apex Publishers. Metal planters provide a nice accent for plants. Bench platforms are moved by a crank at the end of the bench from side to side. problems may complicate growing, including, disease and rot. Benches, therefore, are recommended. Also, by pouring concrete footings, the structural integrity of Also, maintenance on plastic benches is again considerably less than for wood. Plastic bench supports are becoming more popular, but again they are often not as strong, and in many cases are most appropriate for temporary retail displays. 1. x 72(length of each bench) x 3(width of bench)]\ (30 x 80 greenhouse Choosing a greenhouse bench design, material and layout can fixed into place or will you need to move them around? which cannot be adequately removed. P.O. Uniformity in plant growth with good vigour. Bench platforms are moved by a crank at the end of the bench from side to side. Copyright 2022 Apex Publishers or related companies. Oklahoma City, OK. 73127 Steel is a very durable frame material, but needs to be galvanized to resist rust, especially in a greenhouse. The duration of crop in greenhouse is the key to make the greenhouse technology profitable or the duration of production in greenhouses should be short. These planters should be lined with a non-porous material because wood can stain and rot if water-soaked. Application of greenhouse & its rep Last modified: Thursday, 23 January 2014, 9:35 AM. Fiberglass planters are used widely in commercial plantings. rolling benches, can increase efficiency up to 90 percent of the floor space. This allows the bench top to dry reducing algae growth and disease potential. (405) 787-4833, AQUA-HORT SYSTEMS, INC. GM: When do growers need to replace their benches? Examples: A grower chooses a longitudinal bench arrangement in a greenhouse 30' x 80' or 2400 square feet of floor area. supports are used, it is especially critical to chemically treat them for There The fixed longitudinal bench is the most traditional system and by its very Module 3.Scope and development of greenhouse techn Module 4.Location, planning and various components Module 5.Design criteria and calculations. 5. These containers are water-tight and non-porous. It is difficult for me to find negative aspects with plastic bench tops. He has a degree from Tarleton State University in Agricultural Services & Development and interned at Texas A&Ms Agri-Life extension. of However, wood staging is prone to insects infestations and can be a cause of root rot diseases. Aisles are created where the grower wants to work at any given time. below. Lastly, non-stationery benches, which provide even more growing space, are gaining popularity with growers. Metal planters are available in all shapes and sizes. Fiberglass planters are available to the homeowner, but primarily through designer outlets and catalogues. They may be reinforced with steel Moreover, you can not only put pots on top of the shelves but also attach hangers on them to hold plant baskets or trellising. to the center aisle is short. 9200 N.W. Griffin, GA 30224 prevent sagging and toppling pots. Alternative containers similar to traditional petrochemical based plastic have been developed for use in greenhouse production. Use of this site is governed by our Copyright Policy, Terms of Use Agreement and Privacy Policy. However, Selection of suitable containers depends upon the crop to be produced in greenhouse, plant characteristics like crop stage, duration, vigour, growth habit, root system, etc. 4. These planters are available with or without drainage trays and with smooth or textured surfaces. This system works well for some species. Trays are a must for ceramic planters which do not have sealed surfaces, as they are porous and will bleed. What are some typical signs of wear and tear? Metals require more maintenance than other surface materials. Permanent benches may also be supported in this fashion. Cement blocks are commonly used to support bench tops, particularly if they are not intended to be permanent. Clay pots can be used for interior display. Alternative containers are classified based on the nature of degradability at the end of production life (Table 23.4.1). (206) 235-4510, Westbrook Greenhouse Systems, Ltd. (M) Pressed fiber containers tend to have varying degrees of rigidity, material strength, and decay resistance. Plant nutrition, Alternative cropping s Module 19. Some can be moved by hand by sliding the benches over the top of long steel poles. Here you can keep seed starting tray and garden tools. Maximum utilization of growing facilities is largely based on the amount of growing area achieved. They are often not as durable or able to support as much You can also purchase (or acquire for free) bench building plans. You can also stain them with wood paint like coppernaphthenateor other preservatives to prolong their life. or other preservatives (known to be safe around plants) to help decay. Choose a two tier staging preferably with the removable bottom. Therefore, choose metals such as aluminum, zinc or brass nails, (2), Table 1 Space The roller conveyor system uses flat bottom trays that ride on trolley wheels or fixed casters attached to support rails. See list below. You Bench system is an arrangement of benches inside a greenhouse to maximize the growing area inside a greenhouse. (208) 437-5665, Barlow Tyrie, Inc., (M) (supports), all at once. Libertyville, IL. Over time wire tops begins to sag and wood tops can rot and break. Greenhouse Management recently spoke with Jake Whitfill of Southwest Agri-Plastics about benches. www.gardeninghelp.org : factsheet on containers for growing plants. Construction materials and methods of co Module 7. Some are geometric and have a high-tech look. Benches in the peninsular design (fig 23.2.1) may result in a greater growing area than if they were in a longitudinal arrangement. In this chapter we will learn common designs, materials and considerations in choosing containers, benches for commercial application. This permits long continuous runs of watering lines, heating pipes, and/or plant support techniques. This bench system should be given serious consideration with ever increasing restrictions on water and fertilizer runoff. Box 99 Each of the frame options can utilize a variety of bench top materials including: fencing wire, expanded metal and wood. 2750 Lippincott Blvd. (2) (1), Peninsula benches provide for a wide center aisle and fixed Most bench options consist of two main parts: the frame and the bench top. Excess water and fertilizer are collected after each flood and drain cycle to be recirculated later. are a variety of bench styles available. JW: Mostly, I see people replacing benches in the winter time. 1263/230 Glen Oldtown, ID 83822 Module 22. Custom planters commonly constructed in wood, come in a variety of finishes and can give a particular decor a natural look. will you be planting into 5 gallon containers? (2) (1). Up to 50 percent reductions in water and fertilizer savings have been reported. There are several cases in which they could be modified to extend their life and make them more user friendly. per square foot area. Greenhouse Benches. AEN13, Dept. The peninsular design also allows many species to be conveniently segregated, which can be a real advantage for retail growers. This may not be feasible if plants with dissimilar water requirements are grouped together on each bench. An added benefit is that foliage will stay dry and plants can be grouped closely for greater production efficiency. Rolling benches are easy to move by practically any labourer, which is an added bonus. This system has such advantages as reduced and uniform applications of water and fertilizer. Ebb and flow bench manufacturers have also designed trays to be incorporated into a rolling bench system for even greater versatility. (1), Entire metal or steel benches are used alone or in combination with another efficiency could be increased to 49 percent [(4 x 74 x 4)/(30 x 80) x 100 = The main advantage of this bench is that you avoid constant stooping to ground level which causes back pain. Often, expanded metal or welded wire of one inch or smaller mesh is used. The top surface of staging should provide good aeration and drainage. growing space, are gaining popularity with growers. If the grower looks at the same greenhouse with 2400 square feet floor space, but this time designs a peninsular bench arrangement, he will find that the peninsular design will increase the growing area even more. Trough benches typically consist of a metal frame that supports a series of troughs running lengthwise across the bench (See Figure 3.7). Steady state analysis of greenhouse. Because they are porous, it is necessary to place pots on a waterproof tray to catch excess water and prevent bleeding of moisture through the pot onto carpet, floor or other surface areas. inhibitors. http://www.hobby-greenhouse.com/BENCH2.JPG, The internal bench layout of greenhouses depends upon many Moorestown, NJ 08057 (1), Locust, cedar, redwood and cypress are all woods highly resistant to decay. Trays are periodically flooded with water and desired fertilizer concentration, which can be taken up throughout the plants via capillary action. 20 Fasken Dr. Stationary benches are common in retail, educational, and research growing operations. chemicals, etc. Wood planters are less common than other types. poles. JW: As far as benches go, there are really as many types as you can imagine. Also consider the lowered maintenance http://agritech.tnau.ac.in : Webpage on Greenhouse Cultivation. The main advantage is the porosity offered and the lowered cost from bypassing above ground structures. material for the base. Therefore, choose metals such as aluminum, zinc, or brass nails, screws, and bolts. They can be processed easily on equipment designed for petrochemicals eliminating the need to develop new industrial machinery. various benching schemes. of the soil in which the containers are planted. purchased which are lightweight and, thus, portable. We will talk about the materials they are made of and what makes a good option to keep potted plants. Rt. pallets on cement blocks for support. Some include a natural or synthetic binding material such as resins, glue, wax, latex and even cow manure. screws and bolts. These containers are intended for short term pre-production and are expected to reduce transplanting shock, save transplanting time and cost, as well as to avoid used container disposal. J.N.walker and G.A.Duncan (1914). When wood is chosen, higher (313) 743-2800 US: 800-523-6899 Fax: (313) 743-2799, Dramex Intl., (M) All rights reserved. Regardless of materials chosen for bench Service, OSU Extension Facts. aisle widths reduced. Table 1 shows the space utilization for The wide center aisle also provides for the Carbon dioxide generation and monitorin Module 13. 23.3.1 Advantages of containers in greenhouse production. Also, plastic staging is not fireproof. Sharp & Son, Inc. Be certain enough rigidity is offered to Most bioplastics as well as hard rice hull and thick-walled paper/fiber containers intended for production of long term crops fall into this category. These are also available Wood. Can your benches be When wood is chosen, higher maintenance will be required on a regular basis. Bioplastics perform just like traditional plastics and are created from either biopolymers or a blend of bio and petrochemical based polymers. However, in a retail setting, prefabricated benches can be purchased which are lightweight and, thus, portable. Jake Whitfill, sales with Southwest Agri-Plastics, recently answered some questions on benches for Greenhouse Management magazine. Schulenburg, TX 78956 regular work. (1), Allow air circulation for plants by having an open bench floor. A convenient bench is generally 30 inches tall and 33 inches wide. Benches may be all wood or in combination with a different costs when these types of benches are used. The surface is durable and easily formed into different custom shapes for any look. Cincinnati, OH. Instrumentation and & computerized Module 14. So when the roots of potted plant are in contact with wood they can develop root rot due to pathogens. Also, by pouring concrete footings, the structural integrity of the bench supports may be reinforced. the greenhouse. Benches and shelves inside greenhouse help to organize the inside of the structure and keep the space neat. Permanent benches may also be supported in this However, a bench made solely of aluminum is not suitable for large, heavy pots. inches high or wide when against a wall. Oklahoma City, OK. 73157 Another portable bench system can be inexpensively constructed by placing pallets on cement blocks for support. Although maintenance is low, it is hard to disinfect plastic surface. Also, you have plenty of space to walk between aisles and can perform routine tasks easier. design, you must account for many factors; weight capacity, durability, rot 60048 When wooden They are often not as durable or able to support as much weight as other benching materials. treatment to prevent decay such as with wood. (405) 521-8002 US: 800-446-1694, Growers Intl. 2. The main advantages of galvanized steel staging are longevity and resistance to rot and decay. It is beneficial to purchase painter in white color bench as it reflects light. Will you require bottom heat or misting units? Will you be able to grow directly on the The used bottles are turned into a liquid and blended with biodegradable natural fibers, such as cotton, jute, vegetable fibers or bamboo to create a mixture that when heat pressed bonds to produce a fabric like geotextile that is sewn into a container to grow plants. Metal surfaces range from antique to highly polished to brushed. 11 Greenhouse Heating, Cooling, Sheddin Module 12. JW: Whether its an individual or a large greenhouse company that is looking into buying benches they should take into account the amount of money they are looking to spend and the life they expect to get from the benches. These are also available mounted on rollers, making them particularly convenient in retail settings. Channels in the bottom of the bench allow the water to distribute evenly and to drain rapidly when the water supply is shut off. maintenance on plastic benches is again considerably less than for wood. (1), Another portable bench system can be inexpensively constructed by placing Some are hand-formed, imperfect and artistic. efficient in your green house? How much Additionally, steel poles are often used for bench support. 10983 Leroy Dr. Movable benches, however, are not appropriate in a setting where plants Click on the following topics for more information on greenhouse mechanization and material handling. It is important to note however that some The troughs are usually made of aluminum or polystyrene plastic. (414) 263-3131, Metalex, Inc., (M) The containers are intended to be planted in the soil together with the plant. Increases production capacity by reducing crop time. (416) 945-4111 US: 800-263-0230 Fax: (416) 945-6564, Structural Plastics Corp. 13 Unique Ways To Organize A Greenhouse You Are Dying to Know. fashion. (Source: J.N.Walker and G.A Duncan, 1914). There is variation in the cost of these materials, as well as the durability. This is problematic when it rips your clothes, but can be a liability when it causes injury. Oftentimes this requires replacing or repairing a bench or two. The rate of container biodegradation following planting depends on the container material, nitrogen, moisture, temperature, pH, microbes, etc. 53212 Benching systems vary but usually are of the fixed or 'movable type. Bio based plastics are obtained using renewable raw materials such as starch or cellulose from organic feed stocks: corn, potato, cassava, sugarcane, palm fiber, beet, proteins from soybean or keratin from waste poultry feather, and lipids from plant oils and animal fats and are usually blended with fossil fuel-based polymers to reduce cost and/or enhance performance. This The containers are used for the following activities in greenhouse production. Some growers built concrete forms and pour entire benches, including the legs (supports), all at once. nature demands the most labor for handling the crop. Unlike an ebb-and-flood bench system, which is perfectly level, trough systems arc usually sloped slightly from one end to the other. Besides the low cost, this portable display can be easily and quickly disassembled. These containers may be biodegradable or compostable. (Source: www.oldvirginiawoodworking.com ). JW: If your benches arent everything you thought they would be, they do not necessarily need replacing. of Agriculture Engineering, College of Agriculture, Cooperative extension service, University of Kentucky. The use of greenhouse benches has several advantages over planting directly in the greenhouse soil or setting pots on the greenhouse floor: (1) plants are at a more convenient height to work comfortably; (2) benches permit a more effective display of plants; (3) benches provide improved air circulation and environmental control around the plants; and (4) benches permit better disease and growth control. The containers are intended to be separated from the plant at planting and composted separately as they are not quickly or completely biodegradable in the landscape.