How does the sensor work?
The leaf temperature sensor is used to indicate the plant’s current well-being. Via infrared radiation the sensor measures the leaf temperature, providing data that can reveal overheating or unwanted cooling, thereby providing insight to the greenhouse’s climate impact on the plant.
Data on temperature measured by the leaf temperature sensor is sent to the LCC4 climate control to SuperLink. In SuperLink you can read the current temperature, while you can also see temperature data from a given period – an hour, a day or longer time – in the graph module. This allows you to analyze on data and note if you should take extra precautions, e.g., if temperature takes an inexpedient plunge at a certain time of day.
The rays from the sun can heat stress the leaves, resulting in an undesirable raise in temperature. Being aware of the raising temperature allows you to change screen settings accordingly. On the contrary, if leaves are chilled you should consider adjusting room temperature and the distribution of top- and bottom heating – or consider adjusting the basis temperature. These are merely examples of some of the parameters, which can affect leaf temperature and thereby plant growth.
The leaf temperature indicates the growth rate. Controlling plant temperature is part of ensuring that plants grow sufficiently and that you prevent production delays. It also contributes to consistent plant quality.
It is important to position the sensor correctly, as the measurements might otherwise by incorrect. If the sensor is incorrectly placed, e.g., pointing in half on the leaf and in half on the tabletop, the data provided from the measurement will be misleading. It will also impact the measurement if the leaf measured is placed near a heat supply. The sensor must be positioned so that it points towards more than just one leaf, as the leaf’s temperature depends on its age.
Contact a specialist from DGT by Senmatic to get tailored guidance for your horticultural department. Our team of experts are ready to help you optimize your nursery with sustainable technology solutions.
