Title: Evaluate greenhouse facilities and operations.
Course: Floriculture (18052-II) > Section: Gaining an Overview of the Floriculture Industry

Evaluation should include

- designing greenhouse layout, considering
  - structure orientation
  - topography
  - accessibility
  - availability of water and other utilities
  - municipal laws, zoning laws, and other restrictions (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
  - roll-out beds
  - 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 some 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?