Explore the fundamentals of polyhouse farming in horticulture with key concepts on protected cultivation, climate control, and crop selection. Designed for learners ready to deepen their understanding of modern agricultural practices.
Which of the following best describes a polyhouse in horticultural agriculture?
Explanation: A polyhouse is a greenhouse structure covered with transparent polythene, used to create controlled environmental conditions for plant growth. Open fields with irrigation are not polyhouses as they lack protective coverage. Storage facilities are for keeping harvested goods, not growing them. Natural habitats serve conservation, not targeted cultivation.
What is a major advantage of polyhouse farming compared to traditional open-field cultivation?
Explanation: Polyhouses allow farmers to grow crops even during unfavorable weather by providing a controlled environment. Fertilizers may still be necessary, so that option is incorrect. While diseases can be reduced, they are not entirely prevented. Irrigation is usually required, though it's more controlled in a polyhouse.
How is temperature commonly regulated inside a polyhouse to support plant growth?
Explanation: Ventilation and shading help control internal temperatures for optimal plant growth in a polyhouse. Sun exposure alone does not offer regulation. Growing only in winter limits production. Pesticides manage pests, not temperature.
Which crop is commonly grown in polyhouses due to its sensitivity to temperature and humidity?
Explanation: Capsicum is sensitive to environmental changes and thrives in the microclimate that polyhouses offer. Wheat and maize are generally grown outdoors, while potatoes are typically cultivated in open fields rather than protected environments.
What is the most widely used material for covering the structure of a polyhouse?
Explanation: UV-stabilized polythene sheets are preferred as they allow light transmission while providing durability and protection. Metal sheets do not offer transparency, timber planks are used for framing, and cotton fabric is not suitable for protection or light transmission.