Course Code : ABF 319

Course Title : Greenhouse Technology and Management

Weekly lecture and application hours of the course: 2-2

Course Description:The course covers the greenhouse structures, types as well as the interaction with the environment, greenhouse energy andmass balances, evapotranspiration under cover. Equipment for climate control: Heating systems, ventilation, cooling and shading systems.Climate control and decision making in greenhouses. Energy saving technologies: Thermal screens, windbreaks, thermal insulation. Renewableenergy sources for heating greenhouses. Emerging technologies for sustainable agriculture in greenhouses: Insect proof, photo selective andanti-drop cover materials. The second part of the course will deal with Hydroponic systems. It will discuss the substrates used for soillessgreenhouse cultures and their chemical properties. Equipment’s, water and nutrient management in hydroponics. Composition of nutrientsolution. Calculation of nutrient solutions for open systems. Calculation of nutrient solutions for closed systems. Horizontal and vertical systems.Disinfection in hydroponics. Hydroponics, product quality and integrated crop management in greenhouses. The course includes lectures andfield practical’s.

Textbooks and supplementary books:

  1. Hydroponic Food Production: A Definitive Guidebook for the Advanced Home Gardener and the Commercial Hydroponic Grower, Sixth Edition by Howard M. Resh ISBN 093123199X, 9780931231995

  2. An Introduction to Greenhouse Production by Robert W. McMahon ISBN 1565020022, 9781565020023

Course Evaluation:

  • Class Participation 10%,

  • Mid-term Examination 30%,

  • Assignments 10%,

  • Final Examination 50%,

Attendance 95%compulsory