Greenhouse cultivation is noted for its high uptake of minerals, consistent climatic conditions, exclusion of natural precipitation and control of salt accumulation. Acknowledging that plant nutrition in greenhouse cultivation differs in many essentials from field production, this volume details specific information about testing methods for soils and substrates in a greenhouse environment. It does so while offering a universally applicable analysis. This is based on the composition of the soil and substrate solutions, methods for the interpretation of tissue tests, and crop responses on salinity and water supply in relation to fertilizer application. Fertilizer additions, related to analytical data of soil and substrate samples, are presented for a wide range of vegetable and ornamental crops. The subject is especially apt now as substrate growing offers excellent possibilities for the optimal use of water and nutrients, as well as the potential for sustainable production methods for greenhouse crops.

The media amended with poultry litter compost combined with the organic fertilizer treatments that derived at least half of total season nutrients from granular sources produced the highest organic marketable yields of 57-138% of the conventional hydroponic control. A sensitivity analysis was conducted based on the yields and input costs in this study. Compared to greenhouse-grown red bell pepper produced conventionally, producing organically resulted in a 30% average increase in estimated partial net returns due to a 35% reduction in nutrient management input costs and an average increase in market price of 75%, even with an average reduction in yield of 30%.

Soilless Culture - Use of Substrates for the Production of Quality Horticultural Crops provides useful information on the techniques of growing horticultural crops using either inert organic or inorganic substrates and also on use of substrates consisting locally available and inexpensive materials with adequate physical and chemical properties. The contents mainly includes influence of different substrates on horticultural crops grown under soilless culture, production of vegetables and ornamental crops in water shortage area, comparative evaluation of commercial inert substrate used for growing high value horticultural crops. In this book, interesting researches from around the world are brought together to produce a resource for teachers, researcher, and advanced students of biological science.

The book consists of 32 chapters featuring the concepts and applications of precision farming and protected cultivation broadly covered with theoretical and practical approach. The first 8 chapters are exclusively designed to provide detailed information on concept, need, objectives, benefits, components, applications and limitations of precision farming; laser leveler and its working mechanism, components and functioning; mechanized sowing and types of mechanical seeders and their use; approaches for mapping of soils and plant attributes; site-specific weed and nutrient management; precision management of insect-pests and diseases; yield mapping in horticultural crops. An attempt has been made to cover the concept and application of protected cultivation in chapters from 9 to 30 characteristically highlighting the concept of greenhouse technology, its principles as well as historical and technological developments, agrivoltaic system, its concept and features, response of plant species under greenhouse conditions, criteria for the selection of crops and varieties for protected cultivation, basic considerations for site selection, orientation and designing of greenhouse structures, climate control mechanisms for cooling and heating in greenhouses, components, accessories and BIS codes for protected cultivation, types of Irrigation system for greenhouse production system, growing media for greenhouse cultivation, soil pasteurization namely solarization, steam sterilization, chemical sterilization and augmentation with biological agents, checking the suitability of soil and water for greenhouse crops, plug tray nursery raising, basics of fertigation in greenhouse production system, packages of practice for greenhouse cucumber, bell pepper, tomato and melons, potential of pruning as unconventional alternative for mass multiplication of greenhouse cucumber and tomato, types of soil-less cultures, GAP for protected cultivation and economic analysis of protected cultivation. Note: T&F does not sell or distribute the Hardback in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Dive into the colorful world of bell peppers with "The Comprehensive Guide to Growing Bell Peppers," a detailed exploration into cultivating one of the world's most popular vegetables. This book offers gardeners of all skill levels insights into every aspect of growing bell peppers—from seed selection and the importance of sunlight to the intricacies of soil composition, watering needs, and beyond. Whether you're a novice gardener or a seasoned grower, this guide provides valuable information on how to select the right seeds for your climate, manage soil pH, implement effective watering strategies, and optimize nutrient applications for different stages of growth. You'll learn about the unique requirements of bell peppers, such as their need for full sun, moderate temperatures, and specific humidity levels. Moreover, the book addresses common challenges like pest and disease management, providing strategies to keep your plants healthy and productive. With its comprehensive coverage and practical advice, this guide is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in adding bell peppers to their garden. Experience the satisfaction of harvesting your own crisp, colorful peppers by mastering the art of bell pepper cultivation with this thorough and engaging guide.