Greenhouse Protected Agriculture of Vegetable Crops at the University of Florida : An Overview

The Florida vegetable industry relies heavily on plasticulture technologies from the transplant nursery through the packing house and market chain. The value of the Florida vegetable industry has consistently risen while the acreage has declined for many commodities. The use of greenhouse technologies for high-valued crops is an alternative method of crop production that would compliment the current industry while answering several of the many challenges that have caused acreage to decline. Greenhouse protected agriculture technology allows production in less desirable locations using sustainable irrigation methods and low use of chemicals via integrated pest management methods. The University of Florida Protected Agriculture Project researches the process of greenhouse vegetable production with key focus for Florida growers.