What Is a Strawberry Greenhouse?
Strawberry greenhouses are specialized vinyl greenhouses designed for strawberry cultivation, offering various types to suit different climatic conditions and cultivation preferences.
In warm seasons like summer and fall, single greenhouses, which allow efficient air passage and prevent excessive temperature rise, are preferred. Conversely, during colder seasons, row greenhouses help maintain warmer air inside, aiding in strawberry growth.
Uses of Strawberry Greenhouses
Strawberry greenhouses enable optimal strawberry growth, shielding plants from external elements like snow and wind. They are crucial for maintaining consistent crop yields year-round, especially in areas with weak winter sunlight.
Features of Strawberry Greenhouses
Pros
These greenhouses offer protection from extreme weather, allowing for controlled temperature, humidity, soil, and nutrient levels. They also provide a barrier against pests and animals, while enabling efficient use of space for a higher density of seedlings.
Disadvantages
One downside is the risk of high humidity leading to fungal growth and crop damage. Regular maintenance and cleaning are also necessary to ensure optimal conditions and pest control.
How to Choose Strawberry Greenhouses
When selecting a strawberry greenhouse, consider the sunlight requirements of the crop. Options for plastic greenhouses include agricultural vinyl, polyolefin, and fluorine films, each offering different levels of light transmission and durability.
1. Agricultural Vinyl
This material is cost-effective but less durable and translucent than fluorine film, making it less suitable for winter cultivation.
2. Polyolefin for Agricultural Use
Polyolefin is more durable than agricultural vinyl, offering better resistance to rain and wind. Its lightweight nature makes it easier to handle.
3. Scattering Film
Scattering film reduces shadows and allows more light to reach the plants, but may compromise greenhouse durability. Selecting a strong structure that maximizes light entry is important.
Methods of Strawberry Cultivation
Strawberry cultivation can be done through soil cultivation or elevated bed cultivation. Soil cultivation, while initially inexpensive, requires skillful soil management. Elevated beds, on the other hand, offer higher yields with less labor but entail higher initial costs.