Introduced in the early 2000s in Kenya. Greenhouse farming allowed people to experiment with farming. The practice was not limited to basic needs but was also economically beneficial. People in the country have discovered how a small piece of land can generate a large income.
An important aspect of greenhouse farming is its financial return. That looks at maximizing land and space to produce high-quality products. Greenhouse farming does not depend on natural climatic conditions to grow your produce.
The greenhouse farming concept was developed through the creation of microclimates. That helps grow high-quality and vigorous produce. Allowing for constant supply throughout the year without depending on nature.
Here is how to start greenhouse farming without delay.
Types of Greenhouses
Greenhouses come in various types and sizes. Determined depend on the type of crop to be planted and the cost involved. The most common and available greenhouses in Kenya are;
· Wooden Greenhouse
· Metal Greenhouses
· Plastic
· Lean-to
· Freestanding
Once you have made your choice of the greenhouse it is time to move to the next step of action
Soil Testing
Test your soil to determine what nutrients are deficient and what nutrients are abundant. Conducting a soil test might seem irrelevant but it is the most important action. This determines whether you become a successful farmer in your venture or not.
What institutions are available to conduct this test? Yara Analytical Services, Green life Crop Protection, are institutions centered on soil testing for farming purposes. Once your soil is tested this helps to determine the best crop to farm in your greenhouse.
Plant Variety
Each crop grows best when provided with the best nutrients and conditions. You don’t want to become a blind farmer in the 21st century.
Your intention to become a greenhouse farmer is centered on economic advantage. You can choose your plant based on several factors.
1. High-quality yields
2. Does the plant have a weak rind, thus, having a short shelf life?
3. Does your plant variety have extended harvesting periods?
4. What is the current supply and demand ratio in the market?
Below are some plant varieties that you can plant in your greenhouse
· Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
· Herbs – Rosemary, mints, thyme, basil, Oregano
· Flowers – Rose flower, African Violets, Amazon Lilies, Orchids
· Eggplants
· Carrots
· Turnips
· Zucchini
· Cucumber
· Tomatoes
· Capsicum
In addition to enjoying the experience of farming your chosen plant, you will also see positive returns.
Irrigation System
Your greenhouse irrigation system should be suited to your planting needs.
An overhead irrigation system might be beneficial at first, but a hazard as plants grow.
The drip irrigation system is not only the most appropriate for a majority of the plants grown. This system minimizes water wastage while preventing the spread of pests and diseases.
Knowledge acquisition
Research and training are essential tools for every business venture. The same principles apply to greenhouse farming as well.
Get the right training from the experts. Get a better understanding of greenhouse materials and how they function. Learn about the various preventative measures available in greenhouse farming.
What are the costings you may ask? Depending on the type and size of greenhouse you intend to build the costings will be appropriate.
Polythene greenhouse costing range at Ksh; 150,000
Miniature greenhouse costing at Ksh; 40,000
Amiran Kenya and Hand in Hand International are organizations that have ventured in greenhouse training and building.
Create and maintain the best environment for your plants by learning how to create and maintain the right climate. In addition to that, learn how to prevent pests and diseases in the greenhouse.
