The Department of Agriculture Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Khalsa College has a shade net house facility designed to support Practical exposure and hand on training learning by doing to agricultural students and create awareness to farmer community also. This structure is composed of two basic components i.e. frame and cladding material. The shade house frame provides support for cladding material and designed to protect against wind, rain and crop load.
Shade net houses have become increasingly popular in agricultural sectors due to their numerous benefits to crops.
Improved Crop Quality
The quality of the crop is as crucial as the quantity. One of the standout benefits of shade net farming is the marked improvement in the quality of crops. Crops grow well and taste good when they have good growing conditions. These conditions include protection from the environment, ideal light for photosynthesis, and longer growing seasons. Fruits and vegetables cultivated under shade cloth tend to have a richer flavor, better texture, and enhanced nutritional value. Also, the way the produce looks is better, with fewer marks and a brighter color, which is important for its worth.
Reduced Chemical Use
In the modern age, consumers are increasingly leaning towards organic produce, primarily because of the perceived health and environmental benefits. Shade net is a step in this organic direction. With the protective barrier that the nets offer, there’s a reduced need for chemical pesticides and insecticides. Pests and insects find it more challenging to infiltrate the crops, leading to lesser reliance on chemicals. As a result, the produce is healthier, and the environmental impact of farming is diminished. Moreover, the reduced need for chemicals means cost savings for the farmer, promoting sustainable and organic farming practices.
Reduce heat
Shade net houses make an effective form of shelter, which can provide a cool, ventilated environment. Shade net structures can reduce heat, water evaporation and wind speed, allowing growers an advantage by creating suitable conditions for crop growth.
Control environment
Shade nets effectively regulate temperatures and humidity compared to traditional open fields, providing protection against unfavorable environmental conditions. Shade net also offers ample protection against various pests. Shade net house provides a significant benefit when it comes to agricultural production by allowing precise control over the crop environment.
Optimal sunlight
Shade net house reduces the risk of damage to plants that are due to excessive sun exposure while still providing enough light needed for photosynthesis. It provides even distribution of sunlight on plants and eliminates harsh shadows from being cast onto them.
Reduction of Water Evaporation
Water conservation is paramount, especially in areas prone to drought or where water is scarce. Sun shade net plays a crucial role in conserving water. They provide shade and reduce sunlight on soil, helping to minimize water evaporation from the soil surface. This keeps the soil wet for longer; reducing how often you need to water and saving this valuable resource.
This structure facility is an essential part of the college’s agricultural programs and allowing students to engage in hands-on learning and research based practical work. Inside the shade net house, students can experiment with various cultivation practices and study of the growth patterns of various crops under controlled conditions and irrigation techniques like Micro irrigation system, fertigation techniques etc.