More Information
Learn To Choose The Right Greenhouse Style
In order to choose the right type of greenhouse structure and thereby increase the efficiency and productivity of a greenhouse within a specific nursery environment, it is important to be aware of the many designs that are available, and to understand the advantages and disadvantages of each design.
Greenhouses are normally used for one or more of the following purposes:
- To propagate new plants inside by providing the ideal conditions for seeds to germinate or cuttings to initiate the growth of roots.
- To grow tropical plants in cooler climates.
- To protect cold and frost sensitive plants.
- To grow vegetables, cut flowers or berry fruits out of season or faster than what might be achieved outside.
- To grow nursery container plants over winter when there may not be much growth in the outside environment.
- To provide a contained growing environment in which CO2 enrichment is carried out to promote increased yields.
- To provide a contained ‘isolated’ growing environment for plant breeding or quarantine purposes.
Types Of Greenhouses
Many different types of greenhouses are available today, each with their advantages and disadvantages. Generally, the old adage ‘you get what you pay for’ applies. Less expensive greenhouses generally do not do as good a job, and normally do not last as long as the more costly structures. Some of the more expensive greenhouses can last a lifetime and will, in many respects, do a better job. However, the initial cost may be a significant deterrent to a nursery manager.
Commercial GreenhousesÂ
There are three common designs:
1. Gable or Even Span
This type is generally used with inflexible covering materials such as glass. The straight-sided walls make it easy to use the entire floor space.
2. Igloo
A hemispherical cross-section makes this the best shape for light transmission (less sunlight is reflected). This form is also the most efficient in terms of the amount of covering material required and volume enclosed. However, the curved sides make it difficult to use the space as fully as is possible in straight-walled greenhouses. Also, only more flexible materials such as coreflute or polyflute and PVC film can be used on igloos.
3. Raised Arch
This is a compromise between the gable and igloo shapes in which straight sides carry a curved ceiling. Light transmission is better than in the gable type, but not as good as in the igloo. However, the straight sides of the raised arch make the structure easier to work inside than the igloo. Only flexible materials such as PVC film can be used to cover the curved roof-section.
Gable or Even Span
This type is generally used with inflexible covering materials such as glass. The straight-sided walls make it easy to use the entire floor space…
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
