Review: CO2 enrichment in greenhouses. Crop responses

Abstract The interest in CO 2 enrichment has risen and declined several times throughout this century. During the last few years the interest of CO 2 enrichment has strongly increased, mainly due to a better scientific understanding of how CO 2 affects plants and due to the introduction of non-polluting CO 2 sources. CO 2 enrichment decreases the oxygen inhibition of photosynthesis and increases the net photosynthesis in plants. This is the basis for increased growth rates caused by CO 2 at low as well as at high light levels. Elevated CO 2 concentrations also increase the optimal temperature for growth. Pot plants, cut flowers, vegetables and forest plants show very positive effects from CO 2 enrichment by increased dry weight, plant height, number of leaves and lateral branching. Plant quality expressed by growth habit and number of flowers is often enhanced by CO 2 enrichment. The rooting of cuttings is often stimulated by high CO 2 levels. The optimal CO 2 concentration for growth and yield seems to lie between 700 and 900 μl l −1 , and this CO 2 level is generally recommended in greenhouses. CO 2 concentrations higher than 1000 μl l −1 might cause growth reductions and leaf injuries, and certainly do increase the loss of CO 2 due to leakage from the greenhouse. Continuous CO 2 enrichment during the light period seems to be superior to intermittent CO 2 application. CO 2 enrichment during periods of ventilation of the greenhouse increases the yield of cucumber, while some other species seem to be less affected. Air pollution in connection with the burning of hydrocarbons for CO 2 enrichment might cause visible or invisible injuries to plants. The safest source of CO 2 is pure liquid CO 2 from containers, which is recommended for general use for greenhouse crops. Further research with the CO 2 factor should mainly be concentrated on how CO 2 enrichment affects the optimal levels of temperature and air humidity for plant growth and quality.

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