Functions of a Greenhouse

Horticulture II: 7.01-8.02

What does a Greenhouse DO?

What are its functions?

- Make a list on the back of your handout.

Basic Function

To provide a protective environment for crop production.

Temperature range needs to be conducive to plant production. Ideal temperature 65 degrees-80 degrees

Moisture range is conducive to plant production Watering Humidity

Functions

Pest Control Insects Diseases Weeds Rodents

Nutrition In soil and water In air – ventilation is necessary to supply carbon

dioxide.

Expenses

Labor is usually the greatest expense Heat is usually the second highest expense

Greenhouse effect (front of HO)

The way greenhouses collect and store heat from the sun.

Radiant energy warms the greenhouse and its contents.

Greenhouses lose heat through the plastic, glass, etc. and additional heat has to be provided especially in winter.

8.02-Temperature Controls

HeatersFansCooling PadsMechanical Air Conditioners

VentilatorsShade ClothFoggingMisting

7.02-Environmental Controls

Thermostat-should be at plant level Aspirated-small fan blows air continuously over

temperature sensing unit for more uniform temperature Thermistor-use of computers to monitor

Light Photocell-measures light intensity (turns lights on and off) Timer-turns lights on and off at a certain time

Moisture Humidistat-controls fogging and misting to regulate

relative humidity

8.01-Maintenance Items

Temperature Heaters-adequate clean fuel Thermostats working properly Fans, Fan motors, belts, etc-work Cooling pads-adequate water and clean Shade cloth-attached and is at right percentage

Light Shade Cloth-attached or removed Light bulbs-all work Photocells & Timers-work correctly

8.01-Maintenance Items

Moisture Humidistat & Fogging/Mist Systems-work

properly Water lines & faucets-no leaks and adequate

source of high quality and clean water Sanitation

Diseases, Weeds & Insects-controlled by prevention methods

8.02-Temperature, Light, & Moisture

Temp Controls Heaters Fans Cooling pads Mechanical air conditioners Ventilators Shade cloths & materials Fogging and misting

Heaters , Fans and Cooling Pads

Ventilators, Shade Cloths, Foggers and Misters

8.02-Temperature, Light, & Moisture

Light Controls Lights Shade cloth Shade materials Black cloth

Moisture Controls Watering System Shade cloth Foggers Mist system Humidifiers