Evaluate greenhouse facilities and operations.
Evaluation should include
- designing greenhouse layout, considering
- structure orientation
- topography
- accessibility
- availability of water and other utilities
- municipal laws, zoning laws, and other restrictions
- access considerations regarding accessibility standards, guidelines, and compliance (e.g., Americans with Disabilities Act [ADA])
- comparing greenhouse styles, including
- Quonset
- gutter-connected
- retractable-roof
- contrasting glazing materials, including
- glass
- polyethylene
- acrylic
- polycarbonate
- designing bench and bed arrangements, including
- bench materials
- rolling bench
- floor production
- investigating growing containers
- researching greenhouse cooling options, including
- shade cloth and shading compounds
- fan-tube systems
- pad and fan systems
- exploring greenhouse heating and energy sources, including
- passive solar
- unit
- central.
Process/Skill Questions:
- Why are floral crops often grown in greenhouses?
- What factors should one consider when choosing the location and layout of a greenhouse?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different glazing materials used for greenhouses?
- How are greenhouses heated?
- How are greenhouses cooled?
- What are potential safety hazards associated with employees working in the greenhouse?
- What are the advantages/disadvantages of the various benching systems?
- What is the difference between a hoop house and a greenhouse?
- How do hoop houses extend the growing season for flower farmers?
- What are the major costs associated with operating a greenhouse?
- How does location affect the greenhouse?
- What ADA considerations should be made in greenhouse design?