The Best Greenhouse Drainage Systems

Whether it’s keeping your plants protected from insects or bacteria, greenhouses use a variety of methods and resources to help plants thrive all year long. 

Among these resources is a simple yet often-overlooked component that not only influences the function of the building but also improves the health of the plants: greenhouse drainage systems.

WHAT IS A GREENHOUSE DRAINAGE SYSTEM?

A greenhouse drainage system is used within a greenhouse to help remove excess water—both inside and outside—the greenhouse.

While indoor greenhouse drainage systems help remove excess water from the ground to increase safety, outdoor drainage systems reduce the amount of water runoff to prevent flooding.

However, it’s also important to consider that both indoor and outdoor greenhouse drainage systems work to prevent bacteria growth and mosquito infestations.

HOW DO GREENHOUSE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS WORK?

While drainage systems can have different designs, they all work similarly. The greenhouse drainage systems typically have a drain channel that collects water runoff and diverts it from the greenhouse into a designated outlet. More often than not, these outlets consist of larger garden areas or sewage systems

TYPES OF GREENHOUSE FLOOR DRAINAGE

Because greenhouses use both indoor and outdoor drainage systems, we need to take a closer look at the different types of drainage systems that are available, and where they should be used within the greenhouse as a whole.

French Drains

French drains have been around for many years and are simple in design. They consist of a perforated pipe covered in a thin fabric lining. The pipe, which is buried under gravel on the outside of the greenhouse, allows any excess water to trickle through the layers of gravel and filter out contaminants. Once the water reaches the pipe, it is then moved away from the area to a designated outlet. 

Trench Drains

Trench drains are another drainage system that has been popular for a long time. These systems consist of long channels, protected by grate covers, which are set into the ground. Typically, trench drains can handle a substantial amount of water, which means they can be used both inside and outside of the greenhouse, though another thing to consider is that they are usually more expensive.

Slot Drains

Slot drains are similar in design to trench drains, with some key differences. For one, they have a smaller, narrow channel which eliminates the need for a grate cover. As a result, a slot drain will drain more slowly than a trench drain. However, by using a slot drain, the water can be more controlled when directing water towards the drain.

Catch Basins

Although not a drain, catch basins are a key part of the greenhouse drainage system and can help catch water runoff and any objects and debris that may fall into the system. Plus, they keep them safe in a strainer basket where they can be retrieved later. Catch basins can work alone or in conjunction with a trench drain or slot drain system within the greenhouse.

MAINTAINING GREENHOUSE DRAINAGE

Managing and maintaining your greenhouse floor drainage system is crucial for it to work effectively. If you don't perform the necessary maintenance, bacteria can take hold and allow disease to grow and harm the grass, the plants in the ground, and the plants inside the greenhouse. Without proper maintenance, the system can also become clogged, which can prevent it from effectively removing water and lead to backups and overflowing.

French drains don't require much maintenance, but they need to be cleaned at least once a year to remove any debris that may build up in the holes in the pipe.

You'll need to clean trench drains, slot drains, and catch basins regularly as well to avoid bacteria build-up. Cleaning also includes accessories like grate covers and strainers, because they can also harbor harmful bacteria.

WHAT MAKES FOODSAFE DRAINS BETTER

Having drainage in a greenhouse is essential, and choosing the right system is even more important, which is why you should want something made with quality.

At FoodSafe Drains, we offer trench, slot drains, and catch basins made of T304 and T316 stainless steel. Grate covers and strainer baskets are also made of this stainless steel, which makes them extremely durable and corrosion and bacteria-resistant. 

All of these products are heavy-duty rated and capable of holding up even under the weight of a forklift. This ensures that the system will not bend or break under weight and its longevity. 

The FoodSafe trench drain offers three different bottoms: rounded, flat, and v-shaped, which all work to effectively transport wastewater and debris.

The FoodSafe slot drain also offers several options, including the 6,000 PLUS-R Series, 6,000 PLUS Series, and 10,000 Series system. 

The FoodSafe Catch Basin doesn’t come in different models, but it does offer different sizes, depending on your needs.

FoodSafe Drains systems are easy to maintain, largely due to their stainless steel and NSF/ANSI/3-A-certified design, which ensures there are no bacteria-harboring points. For the FoodSafe Slot Drain, options like Flush Flo and Clean in Place offer semi-automated and automated cleaning and sanitation, which takes much of the work out of the necessary maintenance procedures.

GETTING THE RIGHT DRAINAGE FOR GREENHOUSE FLOORS

Greenhouses provide an opportunity to grow all types of plants all year by creating the perfect microclimate and protecting them from praying bugs and animals. 

When you're setting up your new greenhouse, one thing you don't want to forget is greenhouse floor drainage. Effective drainage will protect your plants while ensuring the greenhouse is safe and free from hazards. 

FoodSafe Drains products provide the perfect solution, with a level of durability and reliability that surpasses the competition.

Contact FoodSafe drains today to learn more about our product offering and discover the best solution for your greenhouse!