The project
MSC designed, built and commissioned a high-tech greenhouse for hydroponic tomatoes. Its equipment manages irrigation and fertigation water as one system, with the aim of getting the most from the crop:
- Sensors that monitor the crop and the growing conditions
- Fertigation, feeding nutrients through the irrigation water
- Reverse-osmosis water treatment
- Climate control
The growing system
The tomatoes grow in raised gutters filled with coconut coir. This keeps the substrate well aerated and stops roots growing out of the bags, which helps protect the crop from disease. The result is a longer growing season and much higher yields.
Designed for what comes next
MSC’s technical department worked with the client on the structural design. The client wanted the option to grow hanging strawberries later, so the greenhouse was engineered to carry their extra weight.
What it means for Australia
Water is often the limiting factor for Australian growers. Hydroponics with recirculation and water treatment makes every litre go further, and suits high-value crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, capsicums and berries.