White is the New Black

Introducing HARMONY O E – the light-diffusing white shade screen proven to lower temperatures while allowing more light in.

Standard black and metallic external shades often spread light inconsistently, causing some plants to receive more light than others, requiring crops to be moved regularly. In contrast, light-diffusing white shades allow light to penetrate deeper and more consistently, promoting even plant growth and less handling of the crop. This enhanced diffused light generates potential crop density increases – maximizing your profitability.

The aim of the two Florida studies – conducted by the University of Florida and at Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery – was to investigate if it is possible to lower air and leaf temperature and improve crop quality using a white light-diffusing open exterior shade compared to metallic and black shades.

In a trial performed at the University of Florida’s Gulf Coast Research and Education Centre, 12 metal-frame enclosures were clad with standard 6 mil clear polyethylene (poly) film.

Sixty per cent shade treatments, including a 60 per cent black shade (Shade Rite), 60 percent metallic shade (Aluminet) and a 60 percent white diffusive shade (Svensson Harmony 6420 O E) were randomly assigned and placed over the poly film. Interior ornamental plants (Dypsis lutescens or areca palm and Spathiphyllum spp. or peace lily) were placed in each enclosure. In addition to PAR, air temperature and relative humidity, plant-based measurements were included in the study.

In a separate trial at Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery in Lake Panasoffkee, Florida, two closed structure greenhouses with transparent double poly coverings and nets on the gables and sidewalls were equipped with a 50 percent diffusive shade (Harmony 5120 O E) and a 50 percent metallic Aluminet shade.

Shade and cool while improving production
Made with an open structure for maximum cooling and shade performance, Harmony O E screens feature unique white strips that actively scatter sunlight onto and into your crop more evenly. This results in reduced greenhouse temperatures, accelerated production and higher quality crops.

What you can expect
Superior shade benefits combined with light diffusion properties create a more uniform light distribution in the crop. Your crops will grow better and faster, and so will your business. Lower temperatures lead to a more pleasant environment, not only for the plant but for you and your staff.

Open structure Harmony can be used indoors or outdoors and is available in a wide range of shade levels.

Why Harmony
Standard shades often spread light inconsistently, causing some plants to receive more light than others, requiring crops to be moved regularly. This is not the case with Harmony as light penetrates deeper and more consistently, promoting even plant growth and less handling of the crop.

Enhanced diffused light from Harmony generates potential crop density increases – maximizing your profitability.

Is one shade cloth better than another?
A recent study conducted by the University of Florida compared properties of three sixty percent shades: 60% Harmony white diffusive shade, 60% metallic shade, 60% black shade.

Results show how Harmony compares to other shades.

* Results observed in a similar trial at Brite Leaf greenhouse in Florida during summer 2015 showed a 5°F decrease in average temperatures under a 50% Harmony shade compared to a 50% standard metallic shade.

Other Harmony product benefits vs. black and metallic shades
Harmony’s white strips reflect heat while black shades absorb and reradiate heat into the greenhouse. Low shrinkage in comparison to alternative shades that shrink up to 7%, making Harmony an easier option to install. Harmony’s flat screen structure makes it less abrasive against roof plastics, allowing for longer life-spans of greenhouse covers.