What is the difference between a semi-closed and a fully closed greenhouse?

A semi-closed greenhouse combines mechanical ventilation with limited natural ventilation options. A fully closed greenhouse has no roof vents and relies entirely on air conditioning. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® is a semi-closed system that provides optimal climate control without the high costs associated with fully closed climate systems.

How much energy can I save with a semi-closed greenhouse?

Research shows energy savings of up to 18.5% compared with conventional greenhouses. The exact savings depend on the location, crop, heating system and energy sources. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® also achieves more than 25% lower CO₂ emissions per kilogram of produce.

Which crops are suitable for a semi-closed greenhouse?

Semi-closed greenhouses are highly suitable for fruiting vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers, as well as ornamental crops and specialty crops. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® technology is optimised for five to six crop types that together account for 95% of the fruit and vegetable market.

How does positive pressure affect crop protection?

Positive pressure of 10 to 20 pascals causes air to flow outwards when doors are opened. This makes it more difficult for insects and spores to enter. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® system effectively keeps pests out and significantly reduces the need for chemical interventions.

Can I use residual heat in a semi-closed greenhouse?

Absolutely. Semi-closed systems work very well with low-grade heat at around 40°C. This creates opportunities to use residual heat from industrial processes or power plants. KUBO has completed projects in which these low-cost heat sources significantly reduce energy costs.

What is the main limiting factor for crop growth in winter?

Light is the primary limiting factor during the winter months. In the Netherlands, greenhouses receive only 10–15% of summer light levels in December. This directly limits photosynthetic capacity. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® optimizes the use of available light by creating stable climate conditions that minimize crop stress.

How much energy can be saved with modern greenhouse systems?

Semi-closed greenhouse systems can save up to 18.5% in energy compared with traditional Venlo greenhouses. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® achieves this through heat recovery, efficient cooling and smart ventilation systems that recycle heat instead of releasing it outdoors.

Can I grow year-round without fossil fuels?

Yes, this is possible with the right infrastructure and strategy. KUBO’s CO₂-negative cultivation strategy combines residual heat, efficient climate control and smart CO₂ utilization. This results in a cultivation system that captures more carbon than it emits while maintaining high yields.

How can I prevent pests in my greenhouse without chemicals?

Semi-closed greenhouse systems use positive air pressure to keep insects out. KUBO’s Ultra-Clima® creates a physical barrier against pests. Combined with biological pest control and good hygiene practices, this makes pesticide-free cultivation achievable for many crops.

What does switching to high-tech greenhouse horticulture cost?

The initial investment in an Ultra-Clima® greenhouse is higher than in a traditional Venlo greenhouse. However, lower operating costs, higher yields and reduced energy consumption result in an attractive long-term return on investment. KUBO provides tailored advice to help you find the best balance for your specific situation.

Innovative concepts for sustainable greenhouses

If you are a grower or an investor

We are going to surprise you

You want more control over your crop and more certainty in your results.
As a grower, you need systems that are reliable, smart and supported by fast service.
As an investor, you look for stability, predictable returns and long-term value.
Whatever your goal, growth, profit or impact, KUBO brings the knowledge and technology to make it happen. Together, we grow for a world that demands more with less.

A greenhouse where tomato plants are grown in long, vertical channels. The plants are lush and green, with a mix of red and green tomatoes hanging from the vines. A person is seen tending to the plants, possibly monitoring their growth or performing maintenance tasks.

I am an investor

The image shows a close-up of a strawberry plant with ripe red strawberries, green leaves, and unripe green strawberries.

I am a grower

Year-round premium strawberry cultivation, proven in our testcenter

At KUBO, we do not just talk about strawberry growing. We prove it ourselves first. In our own testcenter BlueLab, we have tested, validated and refined year-round premium strawberry cultivation, from seed and cutting to premium fruit.

The result: more than 25 kg per m², consistent quality and a CO₂-negative cultivation strategy. Built on Ultra-Clima® and AutoPylot, and developed from our own hands-on growing experience.

Greenhouse Technology

Innovative greenhouse structures designed for efficiency and performance.

Cultivation Systems

Systems that support smarter crop handling, better use of space and efficient production.

Horti Software

Data and intelligence to improve control, insight and decision-making.

Service & Expertise

Long-term support from people who understand growing in practice.

Innovation & Technology

How semi-closed greenhouses increase yields

6 min read

Roof of a traditional Venlo glass greenhouse with several open ventilation windows.

Innovation & Technology

What limits year-round yields in traditional greenhouses?

5 min read

Innovation & Technology

“Sometimes I feel like a child in a candy shop”

2 min read

Company

Sustainable greenhouse solutions for growers and investors

We are going to surprise you

I am an investor

I am a grower

More growth, less impact

Year-round premium strawberry cultivation, proven in our testcenter

Everything your growing operation needs

Greenhouse Technology

Cultivation Systems

Horti Software

Service & Expertise

Why growers and investors choose KUBO

years of greenhouse experience

countries where KUBO helps growers build greenhouse projects

days of year-round growing

From Our Knowledge Base

How semi-closed greenhouses increase yields

What limits year-round yields in traditional greenhouses?

“Sometimes I feel like a child in a candy shop”

Grow with KUBO Group

About KUBO Group