Greenhouse Resources
These days, greenhouses can be made from a variety of materials and have come a long way since the time of only traditional glass. What really defines a greenhouse, compared to other controlled environment structures like high tunnels, is that a greenhouse can maintain complete control over the growing environment inside. A greenhouse system, at a very basic level, controls heating and cooling via temperature sensors, but can also be set up to control things like lighting, irrigation and humidity to optimize growing conditions. Greenhouses may also have benches for pots or other systems in which plants are not grown directly in the ground.
When considering a greenhouse structure, growers should pay close attention to the economics of each crop in question, as well as production style for each. As an example, a greenhouse producing floral hanging basket would likely set up a structure differently than one producing transplants or tomatoes. Analyzing the market channels before construction would also be vital, due to the high start-up costs associated with a greenhouse.
Construction, production systems, and equipment are highly variable and often crop specific.
Greenhouse grown tomato returns are highly dependent on yields, marketing channel and price per pound.
Challenges
- Potential for rapid buildup of disease and insects.
- Winter crop production is not always economical in KY depending on crop.
- High startup costs.
Opportunities
- Potential for untapped winter market.
- Can keep on staff year round.
- Ideal conditions for different crops can be reached.