Gardin Demonstrates Energy Savings in Orchid Production Through Real-Time Photosynthesis Monitoring

Key Takeaways

• Gardin’s chlorophyll fluorescence sensors detect real-time drops in orchid photosynthesis linked to malate depletion.
• Dimming supplemental lighting by 50% after malate depletion can generate savings of up to €21,000 per hectare per year.
• Independent trials showed malate depletion timing varies by temperature, cultivar, and light source.
• Gardin provides non-invasive monitoring across 10 m² for crop-representative measurements in commercial greenhouses.
• The system enables growers to optimize CO₂ dosing, lighting, and climate based on plant demand.

Gardin Supports Orchid Growers With Real-Time CAM Monitoring

Gardin has presented findings demonstrating how its sensor technology can help reduce supplemental lighting costs in commercial orchid production by detecting real-time changes in photosynthetic performance.

Many orchid varieties use Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM), a photosynthetic pathway in which CO₂ is absorbed at night and stored as malate. During daylight hours, plants rely on these stored reserves for photosynthesis. Once malate is depleted, photosynthesis declines sharply. The timing of this transition can vary daily depending on environmental conditions, making it difficult for growers to adjust lighting and CO₂ inputs precisely.

Gardin’s non-invasive chlorophyll fluorescence sensors measure photosynthetic efficiency in real time, identifying malate depletion, CO₂ limitation, and light stress. The autonomous system monitors approximately 10 m² per sensor zone, enabling growers to make data-driven adjustments at commercial scale.