Strawberry (Fragaria Γ ananassa)
Strawberries are high-value soft fruits that require meticulous climate control to prevent fungal diseases (like Botrytis) and ensure optimal fruit set. Unlike tomatoes, strawberries prefer much cooler temperatures and have different photoperiod requirements (Short-day vs Day-neutral).
Global Climate Strategy
π South Korea (RDA Smart Farm)
Dominates the winter market (Dec-Apr) using single-span plastic houses. Heating is minimal, relying on multi-layer thermal screens. The primary challenge is extreme humidity at night, requiring precision dehumidification or morning heating bursts to prevent Botrytis cinerea. [1]
βοΈ Tech Level: Medium (Multi-layer thermal screens, forced-air heaters)π The Netherlands (WUR)
Year-round production in high-tech glasshouses using supplemental LED lighting (Red/Blue/Far-Red spectrums). Precise VPD control ensures calcium transport to the fruit, preventing tip-burn on leaves and calyx.
βοΈ Tech Level: High (LEDs, active dehumidification, elevated gutters)π United States (Florida Plasticulture)
Utilizes the annual winter plasticulture system on raised beds. Major focus is on frost protection using overhead sprinkler systems when temperatures fall below freezing. Fertigation is managed dynamically through drip tape. [3]
βοΈ Tech Level: Medium/High (Raised beds, black plastic mulch, overhead sprinkler frost protection)Crop Steering Parameters
Strawberry steering focuses heavily on balancing the crown size (vegetative) with truss development (generative) using temperature strategies.
Fertigation Strategy
Strawberries are extremely sensitive to salinity (high EC) compared to tomatoes. [2]
Phase 1: Vegetative Vigor
Balanced N-P-K. Target EC: 1.2 mS/cm. Keep ammonium levels low to prevent pH drops in the substrate.
Phase 2: Generative / Brix Steering
Increase Potassium (K) and Calcium (Ca) for fruit firmness. Target EC: 1.5 - 1.8 mS/cm. Maintain high drainage fraction (30%+) to prevent salt accumulation.
Ready to steer your crop?
AgriAtlas provides the theory, but every greenhouse is unique. Use our precise engineering calculators to hit these target VPD and Temperature DIF values based on your specific facility's U-Value and heating capacity.