Optimising Nursery Operation Schedules with Multiperiod Linear Programming

Abstract

A dynamic multiperiod linear programming model which addresses nursery scheduling is presented. Due to its dynamic nature, it provides a means to manage risks and uncertainties such as disease, rootstrike, germination and fluctuating demands. By optimising the whole production process, all production capacities such as the greenhouse and shadehouse are optimally utilised. Shortfalls in any period are eliminated by modelling inventory while overproduction can be prevented by using production control constraints. A working example is presented.