Source launches Approximated PAR Sum software for greenhouse growers

Source.ag has launched Approximated PAR Sum, a data reconstruction feature designed to estimate photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) levels in greenhouses without the use of physical PAR sensors.

The system calculates daily usable light levels for crops using existing greenhouse data, including solar radiation, structural transmission loss, screen positions and artificial lighting such as HPS or LED systems. PAR is measured in mol per square meter and is a key metric used by growers to monitor plant photosynthesis.

According to the company, the feature reconstructs PAR levels every five minutes by analyzing greenhouse conditions and equipment settings. The data is then integrated into Source’s crop modeling platform to support harvest timing and yield forecasting.

“Our goal was to turn existing greenhouse data into growing insight,” said lead R&D engineer Leonard Baart de la Faille.

The system can also be used alongside existing PAR sensors. When sensors are present, the platform compares measured values with modeled estimates to detect calibration drift or equipment issues.

High-precision PAR sensors can require significant investment and maintenance. Source said the new feature allows growers to access PAR data without installing additional hardware, using information already collected through greenhouse climate systems.

Approximated PAR Sum is available to all current Source users and is designed to support data-driven decision-making in greenhouse crop production.

Photo courtesy of Source.ag.