How We Grow
Advanced Greenhouse Techonology
OGVG growers utilize the latest advances in hydroponic technology, computerized climate control and integrated pest management in order to ensure that the vegetables you eat are safe, fresh and nutritious.
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The controlled greenhouse environment enables producers to grow a uniform crop that minimizes waste and maximizes yield and quality. Ontario greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers are grown in a nutrient-rich water solution, which enables higher yields.
Greenhouse growing is efficient and allows Ontario greenhouse growers to yield up to 20 times more produce square meter compared with outdoor agriculture.
Longer Growing Season and a Protected Environment
Where outdoor agriculture depends on on warmer seasons, greenhouses have a protected environment and utilize state-of-the-art technology to control temperature and humidity.
Greenhouse produce can be grown during all weather conditions including, cold temperatures, high winds, and heavy rain or drought periods.
This provides consistent availability throughout the year.
Wider Variety of Produce
Due to greenhouse produce being grown in a protective environment, fruits and vegetables normally restricted to certain climates, can be grown all over the world!
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This also allows for the opportunity to grow new flavours, colours, and textures!
Naturally nurtured.
Integrated Pest Management
Reduced Pest Interference
Outdoor agriculture is highly susceptible to pests like insects, rodents, diseases, and weeds. In contrast, the greenhouse structure acts as a natural barrier, protecting crops from many of these threats.
Early Pest Detection and Intervention
Greenhouses employ crop scouts to monitor for early signs of pests and disease. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions and targeted treatments, significantly reducing the need for pesticides.
No Need for Herbicides
Hydroponic growing in greenhouses prevents the establishment of invasive plants or weeds, eliminating the need for herbicides.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Ontario greenhouse farms practice IPM, utilizing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and mites to protect crops from harmful pests. This method minimizes chemical interventions.
Consistently High-Quality Produce
The adoption of automation in greenhouses ensures plants are grown under precise conditions, optimizing their environment to consistently produce safe, high-quality products.
Natural Pollination in Greenhouses
To produce fruit, greenhouse plants rely on one of nature’s best pollinators: the bumblebee.
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Strategically placed hives throughout the greenhouse ensure efficient and effective pollination, leading to healthy and abundant crops.
Environmental
Initiatives
Modern greenhouses are at the cutting edge of agricultural innovation, employing advanced technologies to optimize crop production and sustainability.
Efficient Watering and Fertilization
Most greenhouse crops are nurtured using drip irrigation. This method conserves water by delivering it directly to the plant roots. Any excess water is collected, treated to remove pathogens, enriched with nutrients, and recycled back through the drip system.
Sustainable Heating
To maintain optimal temperatures during the winter months, greenhouses are heated using natural gas or wood. This ensures that crops remain warm and healthy year-round.
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Environmental Standards
Ontario greenhouses adhere to strict environmental standards set by government organizations. These regulations ensure sustainable practices and high-quality produce.
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These innovations and stringent standards benefit the environment and underscore the superior quality of greenhouse-grown products.
Temperature Regulation
Greenhouses are designed with extra height to create an air cushion at the top, which acts as a temperature buffer. This "greenhouse effect" helps stabilize internal temperatures despite outside fluctuations, reducing crop stress and minimizing food waste. This design also enhances energy efficiency.
