greenhouse

The Evolution of Greenhouses

Greenhouses the way we know them today find their origin centuries ago, in the Roman times. But how does this affect the way our greenhouses look today and how far exactly have we come?
24 December 2025

All Greenhouses Lead to the Romans

Cultivating plants under controlled conditions dates back to Roman times. To grow a cucumber-like vegetable for Emperor Tiberius throughout the year, Roman gardeners had to think of artificial methods. They used specularia (light structures fitted with semi-transparent panes) or cloths soaked in oil stretched over a framework. The plants were kept in movable beds, placed outdoors in the sun by day and wheeled inside at night to protect them from the cold. By doing so, they established the principle of cultivation within a controlled microclimate. Disinfection with biocides did not yet exist, but the Romans occasionally used sulphur or ash around plants or storage areas to limit mould and insects.

Greenhouses Through the Centuries

During the Renaissance, a growing interest in nature and science led to major advances in horticulture. Orangeries (stone buildings with glazed facades) started appearing to overwinter citrus trees, and the introduction of stove heating allowed exotic and valuable plants to survive more easily. During this period, systematic hygiene came to life by means of ventilation to limit condensation, liming and the removal of plant debris.

long shot of greenhouse

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries the technology of greenhouses was refined. Water supply in greenhouses became the norm and central heating came into use. In 1806, the first all-glass greenhouse was built. This structure no longer depended on load-bearing walls, which further optimised light availability and climate control. As for biosecurity measures, the focus shifted to steam sterilisation of soil and materials and the use of sulphur fumes to combat fungi.

In the Victorian era, greenhouses evolved into the form we recognise today. Large glass-and-steel structures became prestigious showpieces as well as practical tools. The combination of improved materials, more efficient heating, and a better understanding of botanical needs made greenhouses a widely applicable technology.

Technical Sales Taking Water Sample

Cultivation in Modern Times

In recent decades the focus has shifted strongly towards sustainability and resource efficiency. Modern greenhouses no longer rely solely on durable materials like glass and galvanised steel, but also integrate combined heat and power systems (CHP), CO₂ reuse, and closed water systems that allow for the recirculation and purification of irrigation water. Additionally, LED lighting, precision fertilisation, and smart climate control systems have improved both productivity and energy use. Greenhouses nowadays are completely integrated production systems where climate, water systems, light, nutrients and hygiene are closely monitored and are all intertwined.

The 20th century also brought phytosanitary legislation, disinfection protocols and integrated crop protection. The right cleaning (Roam Eco Clean) and disinfection products (Huwa-San TR-50 & Virba-San) have become increasingly important in the way growers enhance their cultivation. Nowadays there’s also more focus on growing performance with nutrients and fertilisers such as Ambiorix and Sili-Fert P. Cultivation has become more advanced, yet also more efficient.

Technical sales support in greenhouse

The Future of Greenhouses

Looking ahead, technology will further transform greenhouse cultivation. Sensors, data-driven climate control, and advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning are enabling more precise management of temperature, light, humidity, and nutrients. Roam Technology closely monitors the latest technological trends, which is visible with our integrated fully automatic injections and dosing systems. This way we can help farmers transform their operations to be more efficient and precise.

As a company we’re constantly evolving together with our customers and the horticultural sector, because greenhouses will keep evolving in ways we can’t even imagine yet.

Huwa-San and Virba-San are biocidal products and subject to certain laws and regulations per country. As a result, in some countries, our full range isn’t available. Please contact us for more information on our registrations. Use biocides safely. Read the label carefully before usage.