What is Polyhouse, What are the Step to Start Polyhouse Farming?

Polyhouse farming in India is the process of raising various types of greenhouse. In a controlled environment in order to produce healthy and high-quality food. House farming began with the use of greenhouses.

But with the advancement of technology. It has shifted into something that could not be grown inside these greenhouses.

Despite the change, Polyhouse farming remains one of the most innovative ways to produce healthy food. On an industrial scale, making it one of the leading methods used by large scale farms around the world.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur who wants to start your own business. You should consider the Polyhouse farming industry as it has many potentials. Making it one of the most profitable businesses today.

This article will provide you with all the necessary information. That you need to know about this type of farming. Thus enabling you to start this profitable business in no time.

So what are you waiting for? Read on and find out more!

What is Polyhouse?

Poly farming is essentially an outsized greenhouse that uses glass &  plastic poly film walls. In Addition, aluminium siding and sheeting, or netting instead of glass and plastic film. With more surface area for solar panels and more insulation. Between you and what nature might throw at you. It’s clear why growing in a poly house can save you money on electricity bills.

It also makes growing vegetables throughout the winter possible. Polyhouses are easy to build yourself. But many growers choose to have them professionally constructed.

This option often includes a low-cost lease option with upgrades later on. When choosing a design for your new home. Keep in mind they come in two main varieties. Those with solid walls and those with mesh coverings.

A polyhouse is an ecological house, heat-insulated against heat loss. Making it more suitable for year-round living.

The roof has skylights that allow natural light into the house. Thus avoiding reliance on electricity for lighting during the winter months.

The walls are thick enough to retain warmth at night. And minimize radiant heat loss during winter months. By means of double glazing of polycarbonate or Lexan panels. To understand polyhouse meaning read more.

In India, polyhouses are mostly made from glass reinforced plastic due to its advantages like-

1. High tensile strength
2. Flexibility
3. Lightweight
4. Easy availability at a cheaper price in the market.

• When compared with steel, GRP is also comparatively cost-effective. Aluminium is another good option for constructing a Polyhouse. But the comparatively high cost of raw materials. Makes it costlier when compared with GRP.
• Polyhouses are portable, high-tech greenhouses. That help farmers extend their growing season in colder climates. They offer protection from adverse weather conditions, pollution and diseases. Which allows farmers to grow more crops at once.
• Not only does Polyhousing protect plants. From extreme temperatures. But it also provides optimal growing conditions for healthy growth. The sun shines through translucent plastic panels all day long. Without scorching plants or seeds.

Polyhouse technology– 

• Poly agriculture, or vertical farm, is an enclosed greenhouse. That allows for year-round farming. Inside, crops are grown in vertically stacked tiers.
• The poly house design keeps sunlight and fresh air in close proximity with plants at all times, resulting in increased yields and improved quality. There are several factors to consider when building your own polyhouse. Chief among them is determining which crops you will be growing inside it.
• Some common examples include leafy greens (like lettuce), tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. Get polyhouse farming information at Shriji Green.

Polyhouse VS Greenhouse

• The main difference between a Greenhouse and Polyhouse structures. Is that poly houses are less expensive than greenhouses. But they’re not as durable.
• However, even with fewer material costs, you can still save money by using plastic instead of glass for your structure. And it’s far easier to repair or replace if something goes wrong (such as broken plastic panels).
• Learn more about Polyhouse and Greenhouse.

Greenhouse VS Polyhouse

Which one should you choose? One major difference between Polyhouse and greenhouse is their quality and build.

• When it comes to durability, polyethylene plastic is more durable than glass or PVC.
• Polyethylene plastic doesn’t crack or break as easily as glass. And it also lasts longer than traditional greenhouse frames.
• It stands up better against strong winds and weather conditions such as hail, hurricanes, tornadoes, and tropical storms.
• A greenhouse is traditionally made of glass panels.
• On farms, Greenhouses are commonly used for growing flowers, vegetables and fruits.
• Greenhouses are also called vegetable or flower houses.

By means of electric heating in cloudy periods or at night. For instance, many farmers use both kinds of heating in combination. In order to keep plants growing continuously throughout spring, summer and autumn.

Others decide not to have heating systems in their greenhouses. Since winter temperatures are not that low anyway. Which choice you make depends on your personal preferences and your location.

Due to its large surface area, a greenhouse requires more water than any other kind of house. So place close to a water source such as a river or well.

Information About Polyhouse

Polyculture, or multiple-use farming, is an age-old practice designed for self-sufficiency. The basic idea behind poly agriculture is that if you grow different types of plants in close proximity. Therefore, they will tend to protect each other. For example. Some plants provide natural insecticides. That keep pests away from neighbouring crops. While others are more vulnerable. But produce better when grown near plants that are toxic to pests.

• A poly-tunnel or Polly house farming is an agricultural covering. Or structure that extends for at least part of its length above ground level.
• It is traditionally constructed from galvanized sheet steel. Supported by timber, concrete, brick, stone or plastic walls. And accessed by large sliding doors at either end.
• Poly-tunnels are particularly popular with market gardeners and allotment growers. As they provide shelter for their crops over winter. And extend growing seasons into autumn and spring.
• When well designed, sheltered spaces. Like these can aid early-season plant growth considerably.
• They allow earlier sowing times due to increased temperatures. Inside (particularly when light reflects off white surfaces) and help control pests that prefer cool conditions.

Advantages Of Polyhouse Farming

• More Quality, Fewer Costs: The advantages of poly farming in India are many. In fact, if you do nothing else with your life. At least build your house from poly-glass!
• Not only will it outlast any other type of housing by far. But it is literally impossible for insects or rodents to chew through them.
• This saves farmers money and hassle. As pests become infrequent problems.
• You can grow healthier polyhouse farming crops that taste better and yield more.
• You’ll pay less in terms of both food and labour costs. Because crops stay healthier throughout their growth cycle. And harvest yields increase as well due to lack of disease outbreaks!
• Certainly, it’s no surprise that small polyhouse plants stay cleaner and last longer before spoilage.
• Most importantly, they simply aren’t subject to unwanted pests like those grown in open fields.

Polyhouse Construction Materials Available At Shriji Green 

Shriji Green is a distributor of eco-friendly, moreover, innovative and cost-effective agricultural products. The company carries a large selection of materials. For instance, that can be used in the construction of Polyhouses or other types of agriculture buildings.

The selection includes two different types of plastic sheeting:

1. Architectural grade
2. Agricultural grade.

Both grades provide substantial resistance against cracking, weathering, melting and degradation caused by sunlight.

These materials are very durable and UV resistant, ideal for weathering exposure in outdoor environments without altering their chemical structure over time. Most importantly we carry 12mm (0.47) thickness polycarbonate sheeting. Which is recommended if you want to reduce energy costs. Therefore, while maximizing protection from harsh elements like hail and winds.

We also carry 10mm (0.39) thickness polycarbonate sheeting. While not as impact resistant as thicker sheets. It’s still good at reducing frost damage due to its high light transmission rate.

Our inventory also includes HMWPE fibreglass mesh on rolls ranging from 25m to 50m (82ft. – 164ft.). It protects polycarbonate panels by securing them between ground anchors with stainless steel straps. This material has excellent strength properties. Which make it capable of supporting heavy loads safely during storms or hurricanes.

List Of Poly Farming Material Available At Shriji Green Rajasthan

Before start growing plants, plants need a healthy. And sufficient growth medium. Shriji Green Rajasthan provides the following material for poly houses:

1. Compost:

Compost is also called organic fertilizer which is used as a growth medium in greenhouse farming. There are different types of compost available at Shriji Green Rajasthan. Like cow dung compost, horse dung compost, chicken manure compost, mushroom compost etc. At first, you should make your own compost and after one month it will be ready for use.

2. Coir/ coco peat soil:

Coir – made from natural coconut husk. Therefore, the best thing about coir beds is that they do not compact over time. Thereby increasing the water holding capacity of the soil. Because they do not allow any fine particles to sift through them.

3. Vermiculite/ perlite:

The main ingredients present in vermiculite or perlite are silicon dioxide. Along with other impurities like potassium oxide, sodium oxide, etc.

4. Clay/ kaolin clay:

Kaolin clay- extracted from kaolinite deposits located in various parts of India. Mainly Jharkhand, Odisha, Haryana etc. This clay undergoes an extensive procedure known as calcination to remove unwanted minerals. Like iron oxides and aluminium, hydroxide leads to a reduction in porosity (spaces between particles).

5. Lightweight Aggregate/ Calcium carbonate sand:

Lightweight aggregate is found beneath the topsoil layer throughout several parts of India. It makes up around 27% of the soil’s mass. But absorbs moisture very quickly making it ideal for sprinkler irrigation systems. That leave no standing puddles behind.

6. Spunbonded Organic Cotton/ Cotton buds:

Spunbonded cotton buds are produced using 100% pure cotton fibre. During production, cotton fabric goes through special spinnerets. To form threads thinner than strands of human hair.

7. Bentonite / Natural rock powders:

Bentonite is produced using naturally occurring volcanic ash-like minerals. That has been processed into powder form.

Poly House Material

Polyhouse Farming Subsidies

You may qualify for farm subsidies from your local or state government. As well as other national programs that support small and organic farms. To find out if you qualify, contact your local farm service agency at extension service offices or visit their website.

The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA) has information on federal and state programs. Contact Shriji Green Irrigation service agency for 50% Polyhouse Subsidy all over India.

Some states require contractors working in urban areas. To participate in higher levels of composting before receiving payments. Check with your local contractor about their requirements.

Most contracts require an environmental inspection. Before they will make payments. Make sure you understand what is required and plan ahead.

Not only this, we help you with your polyhouse project, and help you with all your requirements with polyhouse construction. Shriji Green gives you a complete project report on polyhouse farming . And makes your work easy. For any requirements regarding poly house in India give us a call now.

Poly House Subsidy

History and Evolution of Polyhouses

1. Ancient Roman and Chinese Greenhouses

Greenhouses have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations. The Romans and Chinese were among the early innovators in creating controlled environments for plant growth.

2. European Renaissance

During the European Renaissance period, which spanned the 14th to 17th centuries, Italian and French gardeners developed greenhouse-like structures known as orangeries. These were used to cultivate tender plants and exotic fruits that were not well-suited to the local climate.

3. 17th to 19th Centuries

In the 17th century, French botanist Jules Charles established one of the first scientific greenhouses for plant research. This period also saw significant advancements in greenhouse technology, with larger and more efficient structures being constructed.

4. 19th Century Advancements

The 19th century marked a significant turning point in greenhouse technology. Innovations in glassmaking and iron framework construction techniques led to the creation of larger and more durable greenhouses. Notable examples include Joseph Paxton’s Crystal Palace, an iconic structure built for the Great Exhibition in London in 1851.

5. Use in Agriculture

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, greenhouses became increasingly common in commercial agriculture. Growers recognized the benefits of extended growing seasons and higher crop yields that greenhouse cultivation offered, particularly in regions with colder climates.

6. Plastic Greenhouses

A major breakthrough in greenhouse construction came with the introduction of plastic covers in the mid-20th century. Polyethylene, a lightweight and affordable material, replaced traditional glass covers in many instances. Plastic greenhouses were more versatile and allowed for easier installation and maintenance.

7. Modern Polyhouses

Today, polyhouses have evolved to incorporate advanced technologies and designs. These structures are equipped with climate control systems, automated irrigation, and other smart farming solutions. They offer precise control over temperature, humidity, and ventilation, optimizing crop growth and productivity.

8. Environmental Concerns

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainability in greenhouse practices. Modern polyhouses focus on energy-efficient designs, utilizing renewable energy sources, and implementing water-saving techniques. Greenhouse growers strive to minimize environmental impact and reduce the use of synthetic chemicals.

9. Vertical Farming and Urban Agriculture

With urbanization and limited arable land, vertical farming and rooftop greenhouses have gained popularity. These innovative approaches maximize space utilization by growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often utilizing hydroponic or aeroponic systems. Urban agriculture aims to bring fresh produce closer to consumers and reduce transportation distances.

10. High-Tech Greenhouses

The integration of cutting-edge technologies is transforming greenhouses into high-tech facilities. Sensors, artificial intelligence, and data analytics enable precise monitoring and control of environmental conditions, optimizing resource utilization and crop quality. High-tech greenhouses are at the forefront of innovation in agriculture, driving productivity and sustainability.

Polyhouse vs. Traditional Open-field Cultivation: A Comparative Analysis

Polyhouse cultivation and traditional open-field cultivation are two contrasting approaches to crop production. Understanding the differences and benefits of each method is crucial for farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural industry. Here is a comparative analysis of polyhouse and traditional open-field cultivation:

1. Environmental Control:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses offer a controlled environment where temperature, humidity, and light can be adjusted according to crop requirements. This allows year-round cultivation, protection from adverse weather conditions, and prevention of pest and disease infestations.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Open-field cultivation relies on natural environmental conditions. Farmers have limited control over temperature, humidity, and light exposure. Crops are susceptible to weather fluctuations, seasonal variations, and pest attacks.

2. Crop Yield and Quality:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses provide optimal growing conditions, leading to increased crop yields and improved quality. Controlled environments reduce crop stress and enhance plant growth, resulting in higher yields and better quality produce with consistent characteristics.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Yields in open-field cultivation can be influenced by external factors such as unpredictable weather patterns, pests, and diseases. Quality may vary due to natural variations in environmental conditions.

3. Seasonal Flexibility:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses allow for year-round cultivation, irrespective of seasonal limitations. Farmers can grow crops during off-seasons, ensuring a continuous supply and potential market advantage.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Open-field cultivation is largely dependent on specific seasons and favorable climatic conditions. Growing crops outside their natural seasons may result in lower yields or crop failure.

4. Water and Resource Management:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses enable efficient water and resource management. Water usage can be optimized through controlled irrigation systems, reducing wastage. Nutrient application can be precisely regulated, minimizing fertilizer runoff and environmental impact.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Water management in open fields can be challenging, as irrigation relies on natural rainfall or manual methods. Resource utilization may be less efficient, leading to higher water consumption and nutrient loss.

5. Pest and Disease Management:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses provide a physical barrier against pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions. Controlled environments make it easier to monitor and manage pests, minimizing crop damage.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Open fields are more susceptible to pests and diseases. Farmers may need to rely on pesticides and fungicides to control infestations, which can impact human health and the environment.

6. Land Utilization:

• Polyhouse Cultivation: Polyhouses optimize land utilization by allowing vertical farming, stacking multiple layers of crops. This is especially beneficial in urban or limited land areas where space is a constraint.
• Traditional Open-field Cultivation: Open-field cultivation requires larger land areas for crop production, limiting opportunities for agriculture in densely populated region.

Polyhouse cultivation offers significant advantages over traditional open-field cultivation, providing controlled environments, improved yields, year-round production, and enhanced resource management. However, it requires higher initial investment and specialized knowledge. Traditional open-field cultivation, on the other hand, relies on natural conditions and is more accessible to small-scale farmers. Ultimately, the choice between polyhouse and traditional open-field cultivation depends on factors such as climate, crop type, available resources, and market demand.

Economic Viability and Profitability of Polyhouse Farming

Polyhouse farming, with its controlled environment and year-round cultivation potential, can offer economic viability and profitability for farmers. Here are key factors that contribute to the financial success of polyhouse farming:

1. High Yield and Productivity:

Polyhouses provide optimal growing conditions, resulting in increased crop yields and productivity compared to traditional open-field cultivation. The controlled environment allows for better plant growth, reduced stress, and protection against pests and diseases. Higher yields translate into more produce to sell, increasing the potential for profitability.

2. Off-season Production:

Polyhouses enable cultivation during off-seasons, providing opportunities to grow high-value crops when market demand is higher. By supplying produce when it is scarce, farmers can command better prices and increase profitability. Off-season cultivation also reduces competition, as fewer farmers are involved in producing crops during non-traditional growing periods.

3. Market Advantage:

Polyhouse farming allows farmers to provide consistent and high-quality produce throughout the year. This can give them a competitive edge in the market, as consumers increasingly seek reliable and fresh produce. Establishing relationships with buyers, such as restaurants, retailers, or direct-to-consumer channels, can lead to stable and profitable market opportunities.

4. Diversification of Crops:

Polyhouses offer flexibility in crop selection, allowing farmers to diversify their production and cater to niche markets. By growing a variety of crops, farmers can tap into different consumer preferences and market trends. Diversification also spreads the risk, as the failure of one crop does not significantly impact the overall profitability.

5. Efficient Resource Management:

Polyhouses allow precise control over resource utilization, including water, fertilizers, and energy. Implementing efficient irrigation systems, nutrient management practices, and renewable energy sources can lower production costs and increase profitability. Smart technologies and automation further optimize resource usage, reducing waste and improving overall efficiency.

6. Reduced Input Costs:

Polyhouses offer advantages in terms of reduced input costs compared to open-field cultivation. By controlling the environment, polyhouse farmers can minimize pesticide and fertilizer usage. Additionally, protection from adverse weather conditions reduces crop losses and the need for expensive crop protection measures. Lower input costs contribute to higher profit margins.

7. Value-added Opportunities:

Polyhouse farming opens doors to value-added opportunities such as organic or specialty crop production, herb cultivation, or flower farming. These niche markets often command premium prices, enhancing profitability. Farmers can also explore processing or packaging options to add value to their produce and increase profitability further.

8. Government Support and Incentives:

Many governments provide support and incentives for polyhouse farming due to its potential contribution to food security, crop diversification, and sustainable agriculture. These can include financial assistance, subsidies, tax benefits, and technical guidance. Taking advantage of such programs can positively impact the economic viability and profitability of polyhouse farming.

Polyhouse farming has the potential for strong economic viability and profitability. By leveraging controlled environments, off-season production, market advantages, diversification, efficient resource management, reduced input costs, value-added opportunities, and government support, farmers can maximize their returns on investment. However, it is crucial to consider factors such as initial capital investment, ongoing operational costs, market demand, and the expertise required to manage polyhouse farming effectively. Proper planning, market research, and continuous monitoring of expenses and market trends are essential for achieving economic success in polyhouse farming.

FAQ Polyhouse Farming

What is Polyhouse farming?

A polyhouse or intensive greenhouse is a multi-levelled farming structure designed for commercial-scale vegetable production. While polyhouses can produce any crop, they are mostly used for growing vegetables and other fruits and herbs. These greenhouses allow farmers to grow crops throughout the year without having to worry about adverse weather conditions such as cold winter nights or periods of drought. A typical polyhouse will be made up of rows of shelves that hold trays upon which plants are grown.

How to Start Polyhouse?

The polyhouse is also called an apron house, referring to its shape resembling that of an upside-down apron. It can be used in conjunction with hoop houses for year-round production, even in cold climates. For many gardeners, setting up and maintaining their own polyhous is less expensive than purchasing plants at retail outlets or by mail order; they can use quality potting soil or seed-starting mix; they know exactly what types of plants are growing in their crops.

How to make a small polyhouse?

You can use something as simple as cardboard and duct tape or more permanent if you have time and money. The best materials will be wood, but there are other options that can work just as well. How you build your polyhouse is completely up to you, so play around with it until you find something that works for your particular situation.

How to Control the temperature in polyhouse?

Temperature control is very important for polyhouses. If the temperature is not controlled, plants may die due to heat or cold stress. There are three main factors of heat stress in plants: wet bulb temperature, dry bulb temperature and wind speed. Plants must be protected from any one of these or they will begin to lose water through transpiration (evaporation) and wilt.

How to apply for poly house?

To get started with your farm, apply for an agricultural land use zone. This zone includes infrastructure such as water and electricity and can lead to discounted rates for services such as internet and mail delivery. With help from an agriculture expert, you’ll also need to apply for permission from your town council and zoning board of appeals. These bodies will evaluate your property and examine its suitability for agriculture, so it’s important that you have done thorough research on what crops you want to grow before applying.

How many companies investing in Rajasthan under NHM poly house?

As many as 200 companies have shown interest in setting up poly-houses for horticulture. The duration of setting up poly-houses ranges from 12 months to 18 months, depending on how much government assistance is provided for land acquisition and getting statutory clearances.

How many days it will take for poly house construction?

A typical poly-house can be built in 15 days. The first 5 days are used for designing and making a cutting pattern, other 10 days for construction. In different areas, farmers start by cutting flooring and rooftop first, or roof first and then flooring, or wall framing and roofing at the same time. It all depends on local conditions such as road conditions, soil quality etc., etc., so it may vary from place to place. But general construction time is estimated at about 15days.

How much amount is needed to open a poly house?

For those who want to run a large farm or even an industrial one, it would require a lot of investments. However, those who only want to try their hands in farming and start with small fields can begin farming by investing as little as Rs. 25,000. On average though, a minimum investment of Rs. 1 lakh is needed if you wish to keep up with market standards for running multiple crops every year on your farm.

How much land require for poly house farming?

The size of your poly house will depend on how much agricultural land you want to farm. The bigger your house, the more area you can farm, and vice versa. If you don’t have enough money for large poly houses (e.g., 150x30 feet), building many smaller ones (e.g., 10x15 feet) may be an option for you.

How much profit from poly house 1 acre

If you have an acre of land, you can earn more than Rs 40 lakh per year by cultivating vegetables on it. This calculation is based on a cost of Rs 80,000 per acre for the installation of polyhouse and plastic films. You will need an investment of around Rs 20 lakh on 1 hectare to set up complete infrastructure, including 10 ponds for irrigation and parking facility for buyers.

How much yield increase in poly house?

Drip irrigation is used in most poly house farms. A drip system means that water will be evenly distributed by droplets of water, drizzling down plants with precision. This technique uses less water than conventional systems, which are prone to overwatering, meaning more profits for you.

How to apply for Poly House Subsidy in Rajasthan?

If you are planning on setting up a poly house in Rajasthan, then it is important that you understand how you can get subsidized by the government. The Rajasthan Government has decided to encourage poly houses in order to promote mushroom cultivation in its State. Thus, they have recently introduced legislation wherein if you are growing mushrooms inside poly houses, then you are eligible for subsidy under various schemes which are specially meant for promoting mushroom cultivation in Rajasthan. Contact Shriji Green for all the details regarding Poly House Subsidy in Rajasthan.

How to build a Poli House?

The first step to building a poli house is to start by making sure that you have acquired all of your poli house supplies. You will need a house shell with at least one door and three windows, as well as some sort of foundation for your shell. This can be as simple as placing concrete blocks under each corner of your shell, although it is also possible to purchase more elaborate bases from many home improvement stores.

How to construct a low cost Poly House?

A poly house is basically just like any other greenhouse, except they are generally smaller in size and designed specifically for growing plants that are meant for consumption. However, many people try to use them as normal greenhouses, which can be inefficient and actually reduce their efficiency. To properly use a poly house for food production purposes is actually fairly simple.

How to fix polythene sheet in Poly House?

Fixing polythene sheets in a Poly House is very important as they can be easily broken by wind and storms, so it is advised to fix them properly. Drive at least 8-10 iron rods in cement concrete slabs placed on walls along with half an inch protruding out of upper parts towards the roof. Hammer tap head nails on each rod. These will prevent wind pressure from breaking your sheet(s). You may also drive nails all-around upper walls for extra strength.