How farmers can utilize the RRPS to profitably and sustainably grow vegetables in warm or hot climates
By protecting outdoor plants from adverse outdoor conditions, growers can:
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Increase yields per hectare 135%- 300%.
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Prevent losses due to extreme weather
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Prevent losses due to disease and insects
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Extend the harvest season to reach the "shoulder seasons"
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Prevent blemishes
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Reduce and/or eliminate the use of agrichemicals for insect and disease control
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Reduce water usage
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Increase the shelf life by 7 to 10 days
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Produce fruit that meets the quality standards of both food service and supermarkets
By exposing plants to outdoor conditions when conditions are optimal, growers can:
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Improve yields 60% to 150%
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Eliminate yield losses due to dust/ dirt build up on the roof since the roof is retractable most mornings and later in the afternoon
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Increase plant densities
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Prevent pollination problems
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Prevent the excessive vegetative growth
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Increase the plants natural disease and insect resistance
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Reduce the insect reproduction rate
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Improve nutrient uptake for both conventional and organic fertilizer
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Extend the harvest season to reach the "shoulder seasons
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Increase fruit size
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Increase the shelf life by 7 to 10 days
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Produce fruit that meets the quality standards of both food service and supermarkets
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Reduce labor cost for tying vines and pruning
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Reduce risk of loss due to hurricanes
By locating in a warmer location, growers can:
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Reduce their capital investment costs on the greenhouse structure, and heating system since a retractable roof production system can cost
between US$20 to $60 per sq m including installation.
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Reduce annual expenses for heating
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Potentially avoid the investment in a hydroponic system which reduces both capital and operating costs
Yield per hectare
Water usage per harvested kg
