Advances in greenhouses and other protected structures used for cultivation of vegetables

Publication date: 09/09/2019
Extent: 44 pages

Contributions by: Martine Dorais, Centre de recherche en innovation sur les végétaux, Université Laval, Canada

Chapter synopsis: Research work conducted during recent years (e.g. structure design, covering, climate control, energy use efficiency, water and nutrient management, supplemental lighting, new cultivars) has revolutionized greenhouse vegetable production. This chapter reviews the current situation of such protected vegetable production around the world, and presents recent advances related to this sector. Types of greenhouses and protected structures currently in use are discussed, and the effect of greenhouse location and the selection of the greenhouse covering material and how this impacts plant productivity are also reviewed. Both heating/cooling requirements and climate management (light, carbon dioxide, humidity etc.) are also covered. The use of both soil and soilless growing systems are included as are the impacts of cultivar and rootstock selection on protected vegetable production. The chapter concludes with sections on the use of fertilizers, water management and plant protection within protected systems. A review of the environmental impact of greenhouse and protected vegetable production is also included.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2019.0045.13