Effect of the height of the greenhouse on the plant - climate relationship as a development parameter in mint (Mentha Spicata) crops in Colombia Efecto de la altura del invernadero en la relación planta - clima como parámetro de desarrollo en cultivos de menta (Mentha Spicata) en Colombia

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effect of the height of the greenhouse on climatic conditions generated on a mint crop (Mentha spicata). The tests were conducted in the town of Carmen de Viboral, 40 minutes away from the city of Medellin (6o 05’ 09” N and 75o 20’ 19” W, 2150 m.a.s.l.). Three greenhouses with the same dimensions were used, changing only the gutter height in 2 m, 2,5 m and 3 m respectively. Temperature and relative humidity measurements were taken every 30 minutes for 3 years, time during which crop production was assessed. Statistical analyses were performed to determine climatic variations caused by the difference in height between the greenhouses, and to determine differences in production levels. The results indicate that, under the study conditions, the greenhouse height directly affects the weather conditions and the mint crop yields.