Benefits of greenhouse farming

Globally, greenhouse farming has gained a lot of popularity. It all began in the 13th century as a means of meeting the dietary needs of aristocrats. This was also utilized in the past to cultivate medicinal herbs. However, in order for researchers to advance their work, the knowledge of greenhouse growing has spread to institutions. Thanks to the agriculture industry's technological advancements, everyone can now employ greenhouse farming.

There are several advantages to greenhouse farming, some of which are readily apparent to the average person. However, what about people who are now employed in the agricultural industry, like farmers and agriculturalists? Are they still justified in wearing their sharp boots in the fields? In order to learn more, we approached a group of specialists for their thoughts on commercial greenhouse farming. Continue reading to learn more about the advantages of growing food in greenhouses from the farmers we spoke with.

A rise in production

Compared to producing crops in an open field, greenhouse farming allows you to grow more plants per square foot and establish the ideal atmosphere for plant growth, which can boost agricultural productivity.

Reducing production hazards

When crops are kept in an enclosed area, they are shielded from harsh weather conditions, including abrupt temperature changes. Additionally, it can protect crops from creatures like birds that could damage them. The use of materials like fiberglass greenhouse panels and FRP panels enhances durability and insulation, providing even greater protection for plants.

Increasing revenue

According to studies, when greenhouse farming is combined with other techniques like hydroponics, the profits per crop per square foot can be two to three times higher than when open-field agriculture is used. Making better use of resources reduces waste, which can result in increased revenue.

Prevention of disease and pests

In addition to offering more control over other diseases, greenhouses can help avoid issues like pests. Only the most important employees can enter the enclosed area, and fewer individuals entering and leaving reduces the possibility of introducing undesirable substances near the crops. If issues arise, it also enables you to isolate them. Your harvest may be saved if you move sick or unhealthy plants away from the other crops!

Year-round development

Because a greenhouse is a reasonably autonomous climate-controlled area, crops can be grown there year-round rather than only during certain seasons. If you have the technology to set up the proper greenhouse climate, you can grow high-quality crops even in the bitterly cold winter or the scorching summer.

Enhanced security and stability

The greenhouse's protected environment offers a steady and safe atmosphere because neither workers nor plants are affected by external conditions.

It's no surprise that greenhouse farming has gained so much popularity given its numerous structural, environmental, and financial advantages. Both large commercial processors of greenhouse crops and home-based operations exist. It appears like the possibilities for expansion are endless. Proponents of this kind of farming claim that because greenhouse produce is harvested when it is ripe and at its best, it has a longer shelf life.

Compared to conventional farming, greenhouse farming has several advantages, such as less pollution, lower energy use, and greater resource conservation. Because greenhouses provide ideal climate control conditions for year-round plant growth, they also enable more crop versatility. The greenhouse farm of the future, when coupled with technological advancements, may help us meet our food needs while lessening our adverse environmental effects.

The benefits of greenhouses for water conservation

Compared to people who live in the mountains or the Tahoe Basin, those who live in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas may enjoy slightly better weather and a longer growing season for farming and gardening. Therefore, you may believe that a greenhouse is not necessary. However, from the perspective of water sustainability, a greenhouse is necessary.

Particularly in the drought-stricken Western United States, water is a valuable resource. Without it, crops may suffer serious harm. Because there just isn't enough water for everyone, several areas of the state even have stringent water restrictions. Giving the food you're growing exactly the proper amount of water—and no more—is what you want to do when you're farming or gardening.

Rainfall usually occurs exclusively in the winter. As a result, we are not as able to use rain barrels as other locations, but surprisingly, greenhouses are a great tool for anyone looking to contribute to water conservation.

Water use is decreased by greenhouse farming because:

  • The rate at which water evaporates is slower than when it is outdoors.
  • Usually, crops are planted closer to one another, which minimizes water waste.
  • The greenhouse's water use efficiency is increased by drip irrigation.
  • In a greenhouse, the crop cycle is typically shorter, resulting in reduced water consumption throughout the growing season.

Water Conservation, Technology, and Greenhouses

The tools that farmers can use to counteract the negative consequences of climate change are becoming more and more apparent as the phenomenon intensifies. When combined with these technologies, greenhouses have the potential to revolutionize water saving.

Among the technologies that are accessible are climate-based irrigation, drip irrigation, water reuse, soil moisture sensors, sub-irrigation, rainwater capture, and micro-irrigation. Drip irrigation technology, for example, can provide your crop precisely the right amount of water. Neither more nor less. This device is saving water by making sure plants aren't overwatered.