The AVATARS project involves growing rapeseed both in the field and in a fully controlled “greenhouse” environment known as the Phenosphere. Below, we will explain the differences between field and greenhouse cultivation.
Field cultivation and greenhouse cultivation are two distinct methods of growing plants, each with its own characteristics and advantages.
Field cultivation involves growing plants in their natural outdoor environment, directly in the soil and exposed to the elements. It relies on natural sunlight, rainwater, and the inherent nutrients present in the soil. Field cultivation allows plants to grow under natural conditions, benefiting from the full spectrum of environmental factors such as temperature variations, wind, and seasonal changes. It is often used for large-scale agricultural production and is well-suited for crops that require ample space, such as cereal crops or certain fruits and vegetables.
Greenhouse cultivation involves growing plants in a controlled environment within a structure called a greenhouse. Greenhouses provide protection from external factors like extreme weather conditions, pests, and diseases. They create a stable microclimate by regulating temperature, humidity, and light conditions to optimize plant growth. Greenhouse cultivation allows for year-round cultivation, irrespective of seasonal variations, making it suitable for growing crops that have specific temperature and light requirements. It also provides opportunities for precise control over growing conditions, enabling the cultivation of delicate or exotic plants.
While field cultivation harnesses the natural ecosystem and relies on its inherent processes, greenhouse cultivation offers a controlled and protected environment that can optimize plant growth and protect crops from external threats. Each method has its own considerations in terms of cost, resource utilization, environmental impact, and scalability. The choice between field cultivation and greenhouse cultivation depends on various factors, including the specific crop, climate conditions, desired yield, and economic considerations.
Overall, field cultivation and greenhouse cultivation represent two distinct approaches to plant growth, each with its own advantages and considerations. The selection of the cultivation method depends on the specific goals, requirements, and constraints of the farming operation or research endeavor.