Controlled environment horticulture (also called protected structure
cultivation), the concept of cultivating horticultural crops in protected structures, dates
back to 14 AD. This method of cultivation offers protection to crops by regulating
environmental factors (both biotic and abiotic factors) as per the crop’s requirements
while reducing the incidence of pests and diseases. This chapter elucidates the diverse
designs of protected structures in controlled environment horticulture, tailored to meet
the growth requirements of various or specific crops. The regulations of environmental
conditions (such as light, temperature, humidity, ventilation, water, nutrients, and
pests) and the mechanisms of achieving optimum growing conditions are also
highlighted. The huge initial investment and operational costs of controlled
environment horticulture are stressed, and the need for improvement in the various
designs is advocated to achieve energy sustainability while reducing costs.
Keywords: Controlled environment, Disease, Humidity, Light, Management, Nutrients, Nutrient pest, Soil, Substrate, Temperature.
