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Course Content
Definition, principles, importance and scope of protected cultivation of horticultural crops
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Introduction
Objectives of Protected Cultivation
Limitations of Protected Cultivation
Importance
Challenges in Protected Horticulture
Issues in Protected horticulture
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Protected Cultivation
Advantages and Constraints of Protected Horticulture
Principles of Protected cultivation/horticulture
Different growing structures for protected horticulture (glasshouse, naturally ventilated greenhouse, hi-tech and semi hi-tech structures, polyhouses, heating tunnel, screen house, rain shelters)
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Introduction
On the basis of environment control
On the basis of technology used
On the basis of structure/shape
Based on construction material
Based on utility or use
Other Structures
Based on soil and climate
Historical perspective and status of protected horticulture in Nepal and around the world
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History of greenhouse industry
Global status of greenhouse production
History of greenhouse technology in Nepal
Selection of site and designing of appropriate protected structures based on microclimate
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Selection of Site for Greenhouse
Basic Design Considerations of Greenhouse
Parts of greenhouse
Loads carried by protected structure
Types of Cladding Material in a Greenhouse
Properties of an Ideal Greenhouse Covering Material
Greenhouse covering material
Principles of protected farming and common practices of farming (soil based and soilless – hydroponics, substrate based, aeroponics and aquaponics)
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Principles of Protected Farming
Soilless culture
Sources of Nutrients in Soilless Culture
Sources of Macronutrients
Sources of Micronutrients
Organic and Alternative Sources
Reasons to Follow Soilless Culture
Types of Soilless Farming
Hydroponics
Advantages of Hydroponics
Disadvantages / Limitations of Hydroponics
Types of Hydroponics
Nutrient film technique (NFT)
Deep flow technique /Flood and drain
Drip-system/technique
Wick system/ technique (Capillary movement)
Root dip method
Floating method
Aeroponics
Principles of aeroponics
Aquaponics
Types of Aquaponics
Effect of different environmental and soil factors on crop growth in protected culture: temperature, humidity, soil moisture, air circulation, pH, electrical conductivity, solar radiation and light intensity.
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Introduction
Temperature
Light
Relative humidity
Ventilation
Carbon dioxide
Techniques to maintain optimal temperature inside greenhouse
Greenhouse cooling techniques
Greenhouse Heating Systems
CO2 enrichment
Humidity management
Dehumidification
How to dehumidify the greenhouse?
Controlling light levels
Soil Moisture Management inside greenhouse
pH Management inside Greenhouse
Electrical conductivity Management inside Greenhouse
Roofing structures, roofing materials and ventilation systems
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Introduction
Covering/roofing materials
Greenhouse covering materials
Ventilation Systems in Greenhouses
Micro irrigation technology, fertigation practices and soil management
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Introduction
Rules of Watering
Types/ Categories of Micro irrigation
Methods of irrigation under greenhouse condition
Advantages and Disadvantages of hand watering in Greenhouse
Advantages and Disadvantages of Perimeter Watering Irrigation in Greenhouse
Advantages and Disadvantages of Overhead Sprinkler Irrigation
Advantages and Disadvantages of Boom watering system
Advantages and Disadvantages of drip irrigation system
Fertigation system
Fertilizers
Fertilizer Application Methods
Fertilizer Injectors
Soil Management inside a Greenhouse
Key Components of Soil Management
Media preparation for greenhouse production
Methods of Decontamination
Fungal Disease Management inside Greenhouse
Temperature necessary to kill soil pests
Automation of irrigation and nutrient management
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Introduction
Master Protected and Precision Horticulture – Notes, Case Studies and Practical Insights – with Rahul

Basic Design Considerations of Greenhouse

Proper design is crucial for the success of a greenhouse. It ensures optimal crop growth, efficient resource use, and structural durability. The design must balance environmental control, cost, and local conditions.

a. Site Selection

  • Greenhouse should be located on level or gently sloping land (1–3% slope) for proper drainage.
  • Avoid areas prone to flooding, waterlogging, or strong winds.
  • Ensure maximum sunlight exposure and minimal shading from trees or buildings.

 

b. Orientation

  • North-South Orientation: Maximizes sunlight exposure throughout the day and suitable for regions with low winter sunlight.
  • East-West Orientation: Reduces heat accumulation in hot climates and Roof receives less intense sunlight during midday.
  • Orientation should consider local climate, wind direction, and light intensity.

 

c. Structural Frame

  • Material should be durable, corrosion-resistant, and capable of supporting covering material.
  • Common frame materials: galvanized steel, aluminum, bamboo, or wood.
  • Design should withstand wind, snow, and other environmental stresses.

 

d. Covering Material

  • Should allow maximum light transmission, protect from rain and wind, and maintain temperature.

Common materials:

  • Glass: High light transmission, long-lasting, but expensive.
  • Polythene Sheets: Cost-effective, easy to install, limited lifespan.
  • Polycarbonate Sheets: Durable, good light diffusion, moderate cost.
  • Shade Nets / Screen Nets: Used for shade houses and screen houses.

 

e. Size and Shape

  • Height and Width: Tall enough for crop growth and ventilation and adequate spacing for plant management and machinery movement.
  • Shape of Roof: Gable roof, arched, or curved roofs improve rainwater runoff and wind resistance.
  • Span and Bay Design: Determines internal layout, crop spacing, and irrigation planning.

 

f. Ventilation and Air Circulation

  • Essential to control temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels.
  • Proper air movement prevents fungal diseases and ensures uniform microclimate.

Methods

  • Natural Ventilation: Roof vents, side openings, louvered windows.
  • Forced Ventilation: Fans, exhaust systems, and air circulation devices.

 

g. Irrigation and Water Management

  • Drip or sprinkler systems preferred for uniform water distribution.
  • Ensure adequate water storage and pressure.
  • Design should allow easy maintenance and water quality management.

 

h. Temperature and Humidity Control

  • Greenhouse design must accommodate heating, cooling, shading, and misting systems.
  • Use of thermal screens, shade nets, or evaporative cooling in hot regions.
  • Proper insulation reduces energy consumption in cold regions.

 

i. Accessibility and Operational Convenience

  • Pathways and layout should allow easy crop management, harvesting, and maintenance.
  • Ensure adequate space for machinery, irrigation lines, and storage.
  • Design should facilitate monitoring of environmental conditions and pest control.

 

j. Safety and Durability

  • Structure should withstand wind, hail, snow, and other environmental stresses.
  • Covering materials must resist UV degradation and have proper anchoring.
  • Safety measures include fire protection, emergency exits, and secure entry points.

 

k. Cost Considerations

  • Balance between initial investment, operational cost, and expected returns.
  • Low-cost structures (polyhouses, shade nets) for small-scale farming.
  • Hi-tech greenhouses for high-value crops and export-oriented production.
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