Greenhouse Irrigation Systems Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis by Type (Drip, Sprinkler, and Boom Irrigation), Analysis by Application (Vegetables, Flowers & Ornamentals, Fruit Plants, and Nursery Crops), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global greenhouse irrigation system market is a massive and growing industry driven by several factors, such as the increasing demand for year-round produce, the rising cost of labor, and increasing focus on sustainability. The global population has been rising and people are becoming more health-conscious, increasing the demand for fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. According to the United Nations organization, in November 2022, the world population reached 8 billion and is expected to increase by nearly 2 billion persons in the next 30 years. Greenhouse cultivation allows for year-round production, regardless of the season or climate, helping meet the food demand. Therefore, efficient irrigation systems are crucial for ensuring optimal crop growth and yield in greenhouses.

Water scarcity is a growing concern in many parts of the world, driven by climate change, population growth, and pollution. Greenhouse irrigation systems significantly reduce water waste compared to traditional open-field irrigation methods. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the roots of the plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff. The prominent players in the market have been developing innovative irrigation systems to overcome water scarcity and quality problems.

• For instance, in September 2023, Rain Bird, an international manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services, launched two new pressure-compensating dripline systems for permanent crop and greenhouse growers. The new products GritX DSV (Dual Seal Valve) and the GritX SDI (Sub-Surface Drip Irrigation) Pressure Compensating Heavywall Driplines help deliver water directly to the plants, preventing clogging and enabling the conservation of water quality.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Greenhouse Irrigation System Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the global greenhouse irrigation system market. Irrigation agencies had been functioning despite challenging circumstances and restrictions. The irrigation industry faced multiple challenges which impacted the service deliveries, such as supply chain disruptions, lack of availability of labor and fiscal constraints. However, several other players used the crisis as an opportunity to leverage investments in irrigation and drainage as well as modernize their systems to tackle future restraints.

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Overview of the Greenhouse Irrigation System Market


• Demand for Greenhouses in Key Countries


• Analysis of Major Crops Grown Globally and their Irrigation Needs


• Key Developments


• Regulatory Analysis


• Impact of COVID-19 on the Global Greenhouse Irrigation System Market

Segmentation

Analysis by Type

The drip irrigation segment is expected to hold a significant share of the global greenhouse irrigation system market. Drip irrigation systems can be easily adapted to greenhouses of all sizes and shapes, making them a versatile solution for small and large operations. Moreover, drip systems deliver water and other nutrients directly to the roots of the plants through a network of tubes and emitters, minimizing waste and evaporation. Traditional methods often lose significant amounts of water to runoff and overspray, increasing the demand for drip irrigation systems in greenhouses.

The sprinkler irrigation segment is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. Overhead sprinklers can be a cost-effective option for large greenhouses compared to complex networks of drip or any other irrigation methods. Moreover, sprinklers offer fine mist for humidity control and cooling in greenhouses, creating an ideal environment for delicate crops such as orchids or leafy vegetables.

The boom irrigation system consists of one or more pipes having nozzles that apply water as the system moves over the plants. The pipes are usually suspended from a single or double overhead rail system attached to the greenhouse frame. A boom irrigation system requires less water and offers the optimum amount of water for the crop.

Analysis by Application

The vegetable segment is expected to hold a major share of the global market. The global vegetable consumption is on the rise, fueled by growing health consciousness, urbanization, and changing dietary patterns. Moreover, greenhouse cultivation allows for year-round production of fresh, high-quality vegetables regardless of season and climate. The controlled environment and efficient irrigation system, such as drip irrigation in the greenhouse, further align with the growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture. Prominent players in the market adopt several strategies to meet the growing demand. For instance, in March 2021, Netafim signed a definitive agreement to acquire Gakon Horticultural Projects, one of the leading companies offering high-quality turnkey horticultural projects. The acquisition would combine Netafim's global presence and Gakon's advanced greenhouse technology to provide year-round crops and farm-to-table local produce.

The flowers and ornamental segment is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Flowers and ornamentals often fetch higher prices compared to vegetables, making them an attractive option for greenhouse growers seeking profitability. This can offset the potentially higher initial investment costs associated with setting up greenhouses and irrigation systems.

Regional Analysis

North America is expected to hold a major share of the global greenhouse irrigation system market. North America is known to be a hub for innovation in agricultural technologies, including advanced irrigation systems. Prominent players in the region have been developing smart irrigation systems, sensors, and automation tools that optimize water usage, improve crop yields, and reduce labor costs. Moreover, the government organizations in the region offer financial incentives and subsidies to encourage the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, including efficient irrigation systems. Such strategies act as a catalyst for the growth of the market in the region.

Europe is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. Europe boasts a long history of greenhouse cultivation, making it a mature and established market. Research and development in fields such as sensor technology, data analytics and robotics are being applied to irrigation systems, leading to greater efficiency, precision, and resource optimization.

Key Market Players

The key players in the market include Rain Bird Corporation, The Toro Company, Valmont Industries, Inc., Lindsay Corporation, Netafim, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited, Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., Micro Grow Greenhouse Systems, Crane Garden Buildings, and Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd.

Key Developments

• In January 2023, the Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture in Saudi Arabia announced a plan to invest USD 1 billion in the expansion of the greenhouses and plant resources sector in the country. The expansion of the greenhouse sector is expected to support the development, improvement, and increase in irrigation efficiency and sustainability of the agriculture industry in the country.


• In October 2021, Netafim introduced a range of new sustainable irrigation solutions at EIMA  International,  a leading international exhibition for the agricultural and gardening sector. The new products include Sophia PSS, Streamline X ReGen, Netbow, and AlphaDisc.


• In December 2020, Temasek Holdings Limited, a global investment company, acquired a majority stake in Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., an Israeli irrigation tech company. The acquisition would help Temasek become a global sustainability player and offer Rivulis portfolio of micro irrigation to several sectors such as agriculture, mining, landscaping, and other industries.