Greenhouse & Polyhouse Farming

Traditional farming is open to the sky — crops depend on natural sunlight, rain, and weather. But what if we could control the climate around plants? That's exactly what greenhouses and polyhouses do.

They are like protective shelters for plants, allowing farmers to grow high-value crops all year round, even when outside conditions are harsh.

🏠 1. What is a Greenhouse?

A structure made of glass or transparent plastic.

• Traps sunlight and warmth inside, creating a stable environment.
• Suitable for cold areas where crops normally Don't grow well.

🏠 2. What is a Polyhouse?

Similar to greenhouse but covered with UV-stabilized polythene sheets.

• Cheaper than glass greenhouses, widely used in India.
• Protects crops from wind, rain, pests, and extreme temperatures.

🌱 Crops Grown in Greenhouse/Polyhouse

• Vegetables: Tomato, capsicum, cucumber, lettuce.
• Flowers: Roses, gerbera, orchids, carnations (huge demand in cities).
• Exotic Crops: Broccoli, zucchini, strawberries.
• Seedlings: Nursery raising for vegetables and fruit plants.

🌞 Advantages

Here's why greenhouses/polyhouses are beneficial:

• Year-round production (off-season farming).
• Protection from rain, wind, frost, and pests.
• Higher yield and better quality produce.
• Saves water (drip irrigation is usually used inside).
• Ideal for high-value crops → floriculture, vegetables for urban markets.

⚠️ Challenges

Here's what to consider:

• High initial investment (₹8–12 lakh per acre).
• Needs technical knowledge (temperature, humidity control).
• Pests and fungus can spread fast if not managed.
• Best suited for farmers near cities (for quick market access).

🧑‍🌾 Government Support

Many states offer subsidy (40–60%) under National Horticulture Mission (NHM).

Farmers can apply through horticulture departments for setting up polyhouses.

💡 Real-Life Example

• In Maharashtra: Farmers growing polyhouse roses earn ₹6–8 lakh per acre annually by selling to cities and export markets.
• In Karnataka: Polyhouse cucumber fetches 3–4 times the price compared to open-field cucumber.

✍️ Practical Exercise for You

Try this simple activity:

• Visit a nearby polyhouse or greenhouse farmer (if possible).
• Observe how temperature, humidity, and irrigation are controlled.
• Compare the size and quality of their tomato/capsicum with open-field crops.