Multiple-day temperature settings on the basis of the assimilate balance: a simulation study

Temperature control on the basis of a crop?s physiology offers advantages over a control that avoids strong climate fluctuations. The assimilate balance, defined as the ratio between the supply of and demand for assimilates, enables a radiation-dependent temperature regulation. The INTKAM crop growth model and KASPRO greenhouse model were coupled, and were combined with an optimization module to evaluate the potential of this regulation. The simulation study resulted for cucumber in all growing seasons in production increase or reduced energy consumption. Annual figures were 5.25 m3 m-2 gas reduction or 4.4 kg m-2 production increase. The underlying mechanisms include a more stable and greater dry matter partitioning to the fruits, and more stable fruit size, length and age.