Protected Agriculture

Protected Agriculture is a practical resource for persons who wish to acquire the knowledge and skills to successfully produce crops under protected culture in the tropics. This comprehensive text combines the fundamentals of greenhouse design and construction with practical guidance on production practices including the preparation of ground beds, raised beds and growing media; the selection, establishment and maintenance of a range of crops under protected culture; and the operation of sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, hydroponics and fertigation systems.

The information is presented in clear, easy to understand language with numerous photographs and illustrations that are closely aligned with the text; also included are end of chapter questions for continuous learning assessments, numerous references and a glossary of terms used in the profession. It is equally suitable for use by senior secondary and junior college students who are pursuing vocational qualifications in agriculture and by persons engaged in farming. Practical exercises geared toward competency assessments are provided in 3 separate workbooks, namely: Workbook 7.1 - Erect and Maintain Protective Structures; Workbook 7.2 - Manage Protective Agricultural Systems; and Workbook 7.3 - Establish and Maintain Nursery Plants.