There are many sources of information that can be very useful in the development of a profitable greenhouse vegetable production system. If there are greenhouses already being successfully operated in the area, it can be very helpful to talk directly with veteran local producers. The county Extension agent can help with information about who the active growers are and about local growers' associations. Established growers should have informed opinions about professional contractors that install greenhouses and about what works and what doesn't.
In addition to growers' opinions, there are several well regarded trade journals that review products and feature techniques used by successful growers. There are also design booklets distributed by equipment manufacturers that can be very informative. In addition, most manufacturers have technical representatives that are available to answer questions concerning design and proper installation of their equipment. Finally, there are other Extension publications that address many topics of particular concern to the Florida grower in greater detail than is usually found in publications intended for a national audience.
More Information
For more information on greenhouse crop production, please visit our website at http://smallfarms.ifas.ufl.edu.
For the other chapters in the Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, see the documents listed below:
Volume 1: Introduction • Financial Considerations • Pre-Construction Considerations • Crop Production • Considerations for Managing Greenhouse Pests • Summary
Volume 2: Physical Greenhouse Design Considerations • Production Systems • Other Design Information Resources
Volume 3: Preface • General Aspects of Plant Growth • Production Systems • Irrigation of Greenhouse Vegetables • Fertilizer Management for Greenhouse Vegetables • Production of Greenhouse Tomatoes • Greenhouse Cucumber Production • Greenhouse Nematode Management • Alternative Greenhouse Crops • Vegetable Insect Identification and Management
