Western Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education
(SARE) Farm Internship Curriculum and Handbook

Greenhouse 101

Learning Objectives
The learner will...

• Understand the purpose, types, and needs of various greenhouse systems.
• Examine various pest and disease control issues related to greenhouse use.

Purpose

• Propagation of plants to be transplanted
• Raising crop from seed to harvest
• Perennials

Types

• Fully enclosed, automated air, heat, and water systems
• Hoophouses
• Cold frames

Needs

• Heating/cooling – provides optimal temp range for germination and growth
• Active vs. passive heat
• Heating to aid germination
• Temperature ranges – cool crops 50 – 70, hot crops 60 – 85
• Shade cloth

• Air circulation – strengthens plants, reduces chance for fungi and disease
• Automated vents and fans
• Opening doors or roll-up side

• Light – in winter, supplemental light could be used to speed growth

• Growing infrastructure
• Beds – in ground or raised – mostly used for crops to be harvested in greenhouse or perennials
• Flats and pots – used for crops to be transplanted

• Water – ranges from hose to fully automated sprinkler/mister systems

Pests and Disease Control

• Healthy plants are most resistant
• Sanitary conditions – wash flats, pots, tools, do annual cleanout
• Regular monitoring – remove diseased plants immediately
• Mechanical – pick or spray off insects
• Biological – use of predatory insects
• Seed source – seeds can carry disease

Assessment/Review

• Discuss various types of greenhouses.
• What are the basic needs to be provided for in any greenhouse?

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