A steam boiler was salvaged and serviced to provide the hot air for the project. The project has been installed using recycled materials to reduce cost. The project is motivated by the sharp temperature fluctuation in Naivasha region especially at night when temperatures drop below 10ºC. Roses require an average temperature of between 10ºC – 30ºC for optimum growth. It is nearly impossible to achieve this during the sharp temperature drops at night at certain times of the year in Naivasha area.

Cold water enters the steam boiler through the pipe inlet then it is heated. The steam is then delivered to the beds through the pipes that circulates from end to end and maintains a circular delivery system. At the ends, the cooled water is taken back to the boiler to begin the process again.  The project is expected to keep temperatures inside the greenhouse optimum at night. The other benefit to be looked at is managing disease and pest as there is more control in greenhouse environment. Also, forecasting weekly production should become easier as there is more control over the crop!

06.05.2016