2. Visit a green house if there is one near your place. Observe how they grow plants. Find out how they regulate the amount of light, water and carbon dioxide to grow the plants.
Answer:
Visiting the greenhouse and speaking to the employees and supervisors taught me the operating mechanisms of the greenhouse. These operating procedures are vital for successfully growing healthy plants, crops etc.
Light Regulation:
- Natural Light is essential for successful growth of plants. Therefore, the walls of greenhouses are made of transparent plastic or glass so that sufficient sunlight can enter through the walls.
- Artificial Light is also neededto supplement natural light so crops can be grown in regions which receive less light. This approach also compensates for the seasonal variation of light.
Temperature Regulation:
- Natural Ventilation is the process by which fresh, cooler air is allowed to enter the greenhouse through vents or openings on the walls. The cooler air replaces the warmer air inside and regulates the temperature.
- Heating and Cooling Systems: Heating systems such as heaters and cooling systems which use evaporative cooling are used to artificially regulate temperature.
- Thermal Curtains areanother form of artificial temperature regulation. These curtains can be drawn to retain heat inside the greenhouse during cold weather.
Water Regulation:
- Automatic Systems for Irrigation: Automatic sprinklers and other automatic systems are programmed to ensure that water and mist are delivered in the right amounts and at the right times.
- Hand Watering: Sometimes a hose is used by hand to water plants and crops in a greenhouse.
Carbon Dioxide Regulation:
- Carbon dioxide regulation is done naturally using vents for exchange of air. Cooler air containing carbon dioxide is allowed to enter the greenhouse from outside, which helps in photosynthesis and plant growth.
- Frome time to time carbon dioxide is supplemented artificially.
Nutrient Management:
Hydroponic systems are used which has numerous advantages. It does not require soil and grows in water. Thus, it makes more efficient use of water and space and gives you precise control over the nutrient combination. This results in quick and efficient growth of the plant.
Conclusions:
Thus, we can see that plants and crops are successfully grown in a greenhouse in a controlled and protected environment. This helps in year-round growing of plants and crops and better-quality produce.
“Visit a green house if there is one near your place. Observe how they grow plants. Find out how they regulate the amount of light, water and carbon dioxide to grow the plants.” – Solved.
Related Links:
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 1
Solution to Extended Learning Problem 3
Solution to Activity 1.1
Solution to Activity 1.2
