Selection of Site for Greenhouse

The success of greenhouse cultivation largely depends on proper site selection. A well-chosen site ensures optimal crop growth, ease of management, and economic viability.

A. Climatic Considerations

a. Temperature

• Avoid areas with extreme temperatures that may exceed the structural limits.
• Ensure that natural sunlight is sufficient for plant growth.

b. Light Intensity and Duration

• Maximum exposure to sunlight is essential for photosynthesis.
• Avoid shaded areas caused by nearby trees, buildings, or hills.

c. Wind Protection

• Select sites sheltered from strong winds to prevent structural damage and heat loss.
• Use natural windbreaks or plan artificial windbreaks if necessary.

d. Rainfall and Humidity

• Moderate rainfall is preferred; excessive rain may require advanced drainage systems.
• High humidity regions require proper ventilation to prevent fungal diseases.

B. Topographical Considerations

a. Slope and Elevation

• Gentle slope (1-3%) is ideal for natural drainage.
• Avoid steep slopes that complicate construction and irrigation.

b. Land Leveling

• Land should be leveled to facilitate even water distribution and uniform structure installation.

c. Soil Drainage

• Well-drained soil prevents waterlogging and root diseases.
• Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.

C. Soil Characteristics

a. Texture and Fertility

• Loamy soils with good water-holding capacity and fertility are preferred.
• Sandy soils may require frequent irrigation; clay soils need drainage improvements.

b. pH and Salinity

• Neutral to slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0–7.0) are ideal for most crops.
• Avoid saline or sodic soils unless corrective measures are planned.

D. Water Availability

a. Irrigation Access

• Reliable and adequate water supply is critical for drip, sprinkler, or fertigation systems.

b. Water Quality

• Water should be free from excessive salts, chemicals, or pathogens.
• Poor water quality can reduce yield and cause crop damage.

E. Accessibility

a. Proximity to Markets

• Easy access to local markets, transport facilities, and processing units reduces post-harvest losses.

b. Access to Inputs and Labor

• Site should be near suppliers of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and skilled labor.

c. Transport and Communication

• Good road connectivity facilitates timely input supply and marketing of produce.

F. Environmental and Legal Considerations

a. Pollution-Free Area

• Avoid sites near industrial zones, heavy traffic, or areas with chemical drift that can affect crop quality.

b. Land Ownership and Legal Permissions

• Ensure clear land ownership, zoning regulations, and permissions for greenhouse construction.

c. Future Expansion

• Consider availability of adjacent land for potential expansion of greenhouse area.

G. Orientation of the Greenhouse

a. East-West Orientation

• Reduces maximum sunlight exposure on the roof, minimizes heat accumulation in hot regions.

b. North-South Orientation

• Maximizes sunlight exposure, suitable for regions with low winter sunlight.

c. Local Climate Adaptation

• Orientation should balance sunlight, wind, and ventilation requirements specific to the site.