Green house

Green house

A greenhouse is a structure with walls and a roof primarily made of transparent material, such as glass, in which plants requiring regulated climatic conditions are grown. These structures range in size from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings. A miniature greenhouse is known as a cold frame. The interior of a greenhouse exposed to sunlight becomes significantly warmer than the external temperature, protecting its contents in cold weather.

Many greenhouses also have a heating system to maintain the desired temperature during the cooler months. The primary purpose of a greenhouse is to extend the growing season of certain crops and to allow for the cultivation of plants that wouldn't normally survive in the local climate, particularly during unfavorable seasons. It is a critical tool in botany and agriculture, facilitating the production of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants out of season and in regions where the climate may not naturally support their growth.

History

The concept of the greenhouse goes back to the Roman Empire. Emperor Tiberius had a structure designed to grow cucumber-like vegetables year-round. However, modern greenhouses began to appear in Italy in the 13th century to house the exotic plants that explorers brought back from the tropics. They were originally called giardini botanici (botanical gardens). The concept spread to the Netherlands and then to England along with the expansion of the European empires and the collection of plants from around the world.

Construction and Design

Greenhouses can be constructed from a variety of materials, including glass, plastic (such as polyethylene film), and polycarbonate. Frames are typically made of wood, aluminium, or steel to provide support for the covering material. The design of a greenhouse can vary depending on its purpose, the climate it is located in, and the plants it is intended to grow. Common designs include the A-frame, dome, gothic (pointed arch), lean-to, and Quonset.

Environmental Control

Controlling the environment inside a greenhouse is crucial for the health of the plants. This includes regulating the temperature, humidity, light levels, and ventilation. Advanced greenhouses may employ automated systems to monitor and adjust these conditions, including the use of computer-controlled heating, cooling, and shading systems. The use of hydroponics, a method of growing plants in nutrient-rich water rather than soil, is also common in greenhouses.

Sustainability

Greenhouses have the potential to be sustainable systems that can produce a high yield of crops with minimal environmental impact. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting, solar energy, and the use of biological pest control can enhance the sustainability of greenhouse farming. However, the energy required for heating and the use of plastic materials in construction are concerns that need to be addressed to improve the sustainability of greenhouses.

Impact on Agriculture

The use of greenhouses has revolutionized agriculture by allowing for year-round production and the growth of exotic and out-of-season crops. This has increased the availability of fresh produce and has contributed to the global food supply. However, it has also raised questions about the carbon footprint of such practices, especially in regions where greenhouses are heated using fossil fuels.

See Also

• Botanical garden
• Hydroponics
• Sustainable agriculture