5 benefits of greenhouse farming and how to start

In addition to that, extreme weather events like heavy rain and droughts are less likely to destroy your plants in the greenhouse. It is the ideal habitat for diverse plant growth, from the delicate to the robust.

This is about to get more interesting. Lets get started.

1.What are greenhouses?

Greenhouses are structures designed to cultivate plants in a controlled atmosphere. They are mostly made of translucent materials, like glass or plastic, letting light in while retaining heat.

Even during the colder seasons, the greenhouse effect helps to keep the interior of the building at warmer temperatures.

Plants can survive in isolation in a greenhouse, which offers ideal circumstances. Gardeners can manage variables like temperature, humidity, light exposure, and ventilation in a greenhouse environment.

These variables can also be modified to meet the specific requirements of diverse plant species, resulting in year-round cultivation and individualized growing environments.

Greenhouses come in different sizes and styles. It can be a modest backyard hut or a vast industrial complex. Their design may include sophistications like automatic ventilation systems, shading devices, and irrigation systems to promote plant growth.

They can also be constructed to stand independently or linked to existing buildings.

2. How does a greenhouse work?

Light penetrates, and the plant absorbs.

A greenhouse has translucent walls and a roof that allows sunshine to enter, giving plants the energy, they need for photosynthesis.

The buildings internal heat is trapped, creating a warmer microclimate that lengthens the growth season and shields plants from bad weather, pests, and illnesses.

Plants convert absorbed light to heat

The plants and other items inside absorb the suns rays, converting that light energy to heat.

Plants release the energy absorbed

When the plants and other objects in the greenhouse release energy, they warm the environment. Internal heat buildup in the greenhouse increases the temperature.

Windows or vents are utilized as ventilation devices to let hot air out and cool air in. This keeps the temperature range where plants can thrive.

Controlled environment

The mixture of sunlight, heat, and temperature regulation creates a conducive and controlled environment in the greenhouse.

Farmers or gardeners can control the environment by altering irrigation, light exposure, and humidity.  A greenhouse allows you to cultivate plants year-round and protect them from the elements in this controlled environment, encouraging optimal plant growth.

3. Tips for greenhouse farming in Nigeria

●     Cover the roof with white sheets to block out light during scorching weather.

●     Install a brick floor to keep your greenhouse warm at night.

●     Use fans if the greenhouse remains hot with ventilation.

●     Building an independent greenhouse is best if you live in a warm area. Attach the greenhouse to a building.

●     Consider placing your greenhouse under a tree in extremely hot regions.

4. What are the best plants to grow in a greenhouse?

Many different things are grown in greenhouses, including flowers, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental plants.

Here are some things you can grow throughout the year: tomatoes, cucumbers, spinach, strawberries, peppers, mushroom, potatoes, lettuce, cabbage, etc.

5. Benefits of greenhouse farming

5.1 Unlimited growing season

With a proper understanding of how the greenhouse works, every season is a good season for plant growth.

Greenhouse farming enables an extended growth season despite the weather or season outside. You can plant at any season of the year when you have a controlled environment.

5.2 Climate control

Ventilation, temperature, and humidity can all be controlled in greenhouses to produce the ideal environment for plant growth. As a result, farmers can produce the best conditions for various crops regardless of the weather outside.

This equally makes it possible for you to cultivate a wider variety of crops and the privilege of growing plants that might not be appropriate for the local climate.

5.3 Yield the best plant quality

Crop quality is improved by greenhouse farming because it offers a regulated environment.

The capacity to control significant variables like light, ventilation, temperature, and humidity results in a consistent and ideal growing condition. Ultimately, you have Improved plant health, quicker growth, and flavor, color, and texture of the harvested plants.

5.4 Continuous harvest

Throughout the year, greenhouse farming can guarantee you a continual harvest. You can have a steady supply of fresh crops by carefully regulating plant dates. Greenhouse farming can also give farmers increased market opportunities and profit.

5.5 Protection from external forces

Greenhouses protect crops from bad weather and pests by acting as a barrier. To lower the danger of crop damage, they act as a physical barrier against pests, hail, strong winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures.

Higher-quality crops are produced due to this protection that keeps plants healthy and productive.

6. How do I set up a greenhouse in Nigeria?

6.1 Choose a suitable space

Select a spot that gets plenty of sunlight all day long. It should be a level region with sufficient drainage. Ensure there is proximity to a water source and maintenance.

6.2 Determine a type and size

There are different sizes and types of greenhouses. There is the freestanding, the lean-to, and the attached to a building. Ensure you consider the type of plants you want to grow before deciding.

6.3 Clear the region

Remove any plants, rocks, or rubbish from the area you intend to build the greenhouse. Depending on the style of the greenhouse, you might need to install a foundation or base.

6.4 Choose the necessary materials and frame

Select suitable materials for the greenhouses frame and roof. For the frame, the top choices include wood, PVC, metal, and glass or plastic for the covering. Think about things like light transmission, insulation, and durability.

Assemble the frame. Make sure it is level and safe. Consider where vents, doors, and other essential features are situated.

6.5 Fix the covering

Depending on what panel you choose, glass or plastic, fix them and ensure the fit is tight and stable so that proper ventilation and insulation are possible.

6.6 Consider the ventilation system

You should install windows and fans to ensure that there is proper circulation of cool air during the day and at night. This will also handle the accumulated heat.

6.7 Set up an irrigation system

You need to plan this. Decide if you will be using irrigation systems or watering tools like sprinklers. Ensure adequate and proper drainage and water supply.

Setting up a greenhouse requires some level of expertise. You must also monitor and maintain it regularly for your plants to perform optimally.

7. Final words

Building a greenhouse is one of those small investments you can make, but it will be worth your time. Aside from the unlimited access to food you will get, who knows, tending to your greenhouse can become a hobby other than a chore.

However, it must be well constructed. At Daibau Group, experts are available to construct a greenhouse for you. We have worked with many clients nationwide and pride ourselves on delivering excellence.

Get in touch, and we will connect you to the best in the industry. Use the link below.