Chiltepec: Pioneers in the use of climate screens to optimize flower growth

In the greenhouses of Chiltepec, located in the states of Mexico and Veracruz, a wide variety of potted flowers are cultivated, including Anthuriums, Bromeliads, and a selection of Orchids such as Dendrobium and Phalaenopsis. These greenhouses have been pioneers in Mexico in using climate screens since 2001. Svensson's climate screens have become a fundamental tool for Chiltepec, allowing them to achieve a perfect balance between protecting their crops and ensuring the optimal development of their beautiful flowers.​

Chiltepec’s greenhouses, dedicated to the production of Anthuriums, Bromeliads, Orchids (Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, Cattleyas, Cymbidium, Oncidium) and other varieties of pot flowers, originated in the town that shares the same name in the State of Mexico. Subsequently, a second greenhouse location was established in the state of Veracruz, characterized by a semi-warm and humid climate.

Located at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.), with temperatures that can drop to 12°C in winter, Chiltepec has been a pioneer in the use of climate screens in Mexico since 2001. Since their installation, Svensson’s climate screens have fulfilled their function of helping to maintain heat and prevent plant stress due to low temperatures.

During our visit to Chiltepec, they explained to us that they have observed that exposing phalaenopsis to solar radiation for more than an hour results in irreversible sunburn damage to the leaves. The solution to this problem was the installation of Solaro climate screens, whose main function is to prevent the plants from burning due to direct exposure to the sun and to ensure that they maintain a cooler temperature.

The Solaro screen has also been of great help to Chiltepec as it can be used at night to reduce the loss of solar radiation and prevent condensation on the plants.

"At night, we manipulate humidity by extending the screen and allowing condensation to fall on the screen, which is then evaporated through roof windows, preventing plant diseases," they commented.

In the cold rooms where phalaenopsis are cultivated, the Solaro 8635 screen has been installed to reduce light entry by 85% and maintain the adequate humidity that these plants need.

"We can control the amount of light our plants receive. In the mornings and evenings when the sun is setting, we have our crops uncovered, but in the hours with higher solar radiation, we cover the crop to protect it."

Finally, at the end of our visit to Chiltepec, they shared their experience using Svensson's climate screens, and this is what they told us:

"It is a fundamental tool for our crop, especially when we have registered measurements of up to 120,000 lux in the months of April and May. Without the screen, this excessive light intensity could delay the development of our plants."

Currently Chiltepec is considering starting the migration to Harmony screens. If you are interested in learning more about how to leverage shade screens to boost flower production and crop health, download our Floral Shading Guide.