BENEFITS OF GREENHOUSES PDF Print E-mail
Currently in Barbados, most of our farmers are still using traditional methods of producing crops.  While many of our farmers have successfully grown from their experiences in the field, current trends with greenhouse technology has proven to be more productive compared to conventional practices, which are on average less successful when compared to production under greenhouse type settings.  

Major benefits of using greenhouses
* Increased availability of produce will lead to reduced importation of that produce.
* Increased yields and quality of commodities.
* Protection of delicate crops from adverse weather condition.
* Efficient management of crop production scheduling.
* Increased food security.
* Soil-less cultures can be used for some crops.
 
* Reduced cost of production and crop losses lead to higher profits and more competitiveness in an open market.

* Farmers can adopt organic farming practices, and benefit from growing health consciousness.
* Integrated pest and weed control management reduces the use of insecticides and pesticides that can pose health risk or contaminate ground water supplies.

Factors to consider before setting up a greenhouse:

* Excessive heat must not be allowed to build up thus a tinted roof or shaded netting should be used to assist in cooling.
* Good ventilation, but a restricted air flow of less than three miles per hour.
* The importance of effective pest and disease management practices.
* Effective weed management practices.
* Appropriate site selection.
* Presence of good CO2 for plants.
* Soil in green house must have good water holding capacity.
* Pollination of flowers by bees and other insects can be done to ensure maximum yield.
* Seedlings used in green houses should exhibit good leaf and root development.
* Varieties should be researched and selection done for those that are best suited for green house production.
* Proper management and record keeping