When you read the term greenhouse farming, what comes to mind? If you imagined rows of crops growing under growlights, gleaming hydroponic setups, or sophisticated systems. Then, you are among the vast majority of individuals who have the same opinion as you. Most people don’t know about the whole concept of it, but the one major contributor that is often overlooked is the greenhouse screen.
Yes, those fabric-like layers hanging inside or outside the greenhouse? They’re doing a lot more than just “covering space.” Especially in a climate like the UAE, where the sun doesn’t hold back, these screens can make or break your growing results.
Why Climate Screens Matter in Greenhouse Farming
Think of them as your greenhouse’s personal climate manager. A well-selected screen system can:
- Cut down energy use by up to 30% (yes, seriously)
- Spread natural sunlight evenly across the crop area
- Control the inside temperature, especially during those scorching UAE afternoons
- Protect the greenhouse cover, making it last longer
All of this means better yields, healthier plants, and lower costs. Whether you’re into hydroponic farming in the UAE, building custom hydroponic systems, or exploring indoor vertical farming, screens are quietly doing all the work.
External vs. Internal Screens — What’s the Difference?
External screens are your first line of defense in hot areas such as the Middle East. They help substantially reduce heat before it even reaches the greenhouse, which is important during the hottest part of summer.
On the other hand, internal screens come in a multitude of shapes and offer a multitude of functions: for example, they might reflect light during the day or insulate energy at night. That said, not all internal screens are created equal; some do great for leafy greens, while others are better for fruiting crops. Your best option will depend on your crop type, greenhouse design, and even latitude.
This is where working with experienced greenhouse suppliers in the UAE makes a huge difference.
Smart Automation with Drive Systems
We’re living in the age of smart farming, and screens can be part of that too. Using sensor-based systems, screens can open or close automatically depending on light, heat, and humidity levels inside the greenhouse.
The most popular drive system? The mechanics of the rack and pinion. It is dependable, simple to install, and suitable for the majority of greenhouse types. While pulley systems are generally set up for certain designs, they might also be used in some setups. The system could be powered with many technologies, but the same goal is always sought: smooth control with the best results you can.
This degree of climatic control might elevate your setup if you’re already managing hydroponic farms or are preparing a vertical farming operation.
Role of Skyfield Agritech
At Skyfield Agritech, we don’t just sell you a screen and walk away. We work with you to figure out:
- What type of screen do your crops actually need
- Which drive mechanism fits your structure
- Whether your greenhouse needs any upgrades to support the system
And we’re not doing it alone. Our technology partner, Ridder from the Netherlands, brings in proven global experience to make sure your setup is built to perform, even under the intense conditions of greenhouse farming in the UAE.
Already have a greenhouse? No problem. Our engineers can tweak the existing structure so everything fits and functions just right.
Final Thoughts
It’s simple to ignore greenhouse screens until you realize their true purpose. Screens are the silent engine that keeps everything operating smoothly, whether you’re new to greenhouse farming, running a large hydroponic agricultural operation, or venturing into vertical farming in the UAE.
Ready to see how the right screen system can transform your grow space? Maybe it’s time to look beyond just fans and nutrients and give your greenhouse a smarter, cooler upgrade.
