What is Greenhouse?
A Greenhouse is a framed structure, enclosed primarily with a transparent material and large enough to grow crops under partial or fully controlled environmental conditions, to get optimum growth and productivity. Size of a greenhouse can range from small sheds to industrial-sized buildings. In agriculture, it the fastest growing sector globally. A greenhouse business with hydroponic technique is a great idea.
Advantages
Round the year production with a wide variety of plants.
Being covered, gives the benefit of gardening, also production in regions with adverse weather conditions.
Protection from pests, predators and difficult weather.
High yields and healthy production, as can regulate heating, humidification etc.
It’s possible to grow plants without dangerous, toxic pesticides, with controlled usage of water, so more environmental friendly.
Can keep beneficial insects inside, which further help to keep the population of nuisance insects under control.
Can customize the greenhouse structure as per farming needs.
Tips to start greenhouse farming business
Market Research
A market must be critically analyzed to decide the niche area, level of competition, threats and challenges, to ensure the space and the need for another greenhouse business, in the market. The demographic and psychographic composition of area must be examined and then calculate what is your projected growth according to the previous data.
Choice of Crop Type
The type of crop you want to grow must have high commercial value & sustainable market demand. Investigate the competitors and types of crops currently being grown in the area. Then research the ideal growing conditions, soil, and planting times of the plants you would like to grow. So, as per research you can go ahead and purchase the seeds.
Costing or Economic Analysis
To plan the size of your business is also crucial. Calculate what quantity of crops you will need to grow, the selling prices and the specific markets where plants will be sold in order to turn a profit. Divide expenses into two categories: Variable and Fixed. Variable expenses are the direct or allocated expenses, in some situations will vary with the amount of crop you are growing. Variable expenses typically include pots, plugs, seed, substrate, labels, chemicals, etc. Fixed costs are those expenses that have to be paid whether or not a crop is produced, including depreciation, insurance, marketing, labor cost, etc.
Legal Consideration
Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a greenhouse business. One must contact the local authorities to learn about the regulations governing your greenhouse. With these legal obligations, one would be able to find out about farming land, finance options, taxes, water regulations, land use regulation, pesticide regulation, labor laws , food safety, organic certification and farming ,insurance policy, collecting sales tax and other related legal duties.
Greenhouse Structure
After securing a suitable land, the next important step is to design and construct a greenhouse. What crop type you will grow and what suitable conditions would be required for it, accordingly you can design your greenhouse. Technicality and specification of a greenhouse design involves the control of temperature, levels of light and shade, irrigation system, fertilizer application, atmospheric humidity, benches, power line, ventilation, etc., factors which impact the layout of a greenhouse.
Marketing
The best way to market your business is to build strong connections with local vendors, to sell your products. Advertise your greenhouse business as a brand on both print and electronic media, also use internet and social media platforms. The more visibility you get, the more chances you’ll have repeat clients, as long as your product is top quality.