Polyhouse farming offers a method to cultivate vegetables with minimal losses, irrespective of weather conditions. It functions as a protective system that empowers farmers to generate substantial profits. The process involves creating a conducive environment for cultivation, enabling the growth of various vegetables. A polyhouse comprises a sheltered, frame-supported structure draped with low-density polyethylene or transparent plastic, along with insect-proof netting. Facilitating an optimal environment for high-value crops within polyhouses results in enhanced earnings. Cucumber cultivation, for instance, can be sustained year-round in polyhouses. Precise climate control is paramount for successful crop development. Typically, daytime temperatures within polyhouses are 5-7 degrees Celsius higher than nighttime temperatures. Elevated levels of carbon dioxide, exceeding 350 ppm, contribute to increased productivity. Conversely, humidity exceeding 80% in polyhouses can lead to fungal infections. To safeguard plants, humidity levels should ideally range between 60-80%. Maintaining balanced climate conditions within polyhouses demands a substantial amount of energy.
Cucumber cultivation is readily feasible in warm and tropical regions worldwide. It serves various purposes in culinary endeavors, commonly featuring in salads, pickles, and raita. Furthermore, its seeds hold value for extracting oil, which offers benefits for both the body and the brain, and are also utilized in Ayurvedic remedies. Owing to its cooling attributes, cucumber is employed in alleviating conditions such as jaundice and constipation.
Cucumber is a warm-season crop. It requires temperatures ranging from 27 to 35 degrees Celsius for optimal growth. It is sensitive to excessive cold and frost, and high temperatures and humidity can lead to the development of powdery mildew disease. The suitable temperature range for cucumbers is between 15 to 40 degrees Celsius. Adequate moisture, around 90 percent, is necessary for cucumber growth.
Seedlings are prepared using trays with 50 compartments, each containing one seed. A mixture of cocopeat, perlite, and vermicompost is used to fill the trays, after which one seed is sown in each compartment. Germination typically occurs within 3-4 days of sowing, and the seedlings are ready for transplantation within 20-25 days. The use of polythene film is beneficial as it helps prevent pest damage to the crop and maintains moisture levels for an extended duration.
Planting and Varieties of Cucumber: For cucumber cultivation, a trellis of one meter height and rows spaced at 15 centimeters apart are prepared. Subsequently, drip lines and mulching are applied. After mulching, holes are made at a distance of 75x75 centimeters for planting each seedling. Post-planting, irrigation of the seedlings is done with the help of a thousand-liter tank until the plant is established properly. Some common varieties include China, Poinsett, Long Green, Super Green, Straight-8, Balam Cucumber, Poona Cucumber, Pusa Hybrid, Parthenocarpic varieties.
Harvesting and Yield: The plants are ready for harvesting fruits after 35-40 days of planting. It is advisable to harvest the fruits at intervals of 3-4 days. After harvesting, they are packed in plastic crates and sent to the market. Cucumber production in polyhouses yields around 250-300 quintals per hectare.
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