A Polyhouse is a type of protected farming structure made using UV-stabilized polyethylene sheets that creates a controlled environment for growing crops.
It helps farmers grow high-value vegetables, fruits, flowers, and plants by controlling temperature, humidity, light, and irrigation.
Polyhouse farming allows year-round cultivation, higher yield, and better quality produce compared to open-field farming.
Controlled temperature & humidity
Protection from rain, wind, pests, and extreme weather
Efficient use of water and fertilizers
Suitable for high-value crops
Can be naturally ventilated or climate-controlled
Ideal for commercial farming
Vegetables: Capsicum, Tomato, Cucumber, Lettuce
Flowers: Rose, Gerbera, Carnation, Orchid
Fruits: Strawberry
Nursery plants & saplings
Higher crop yield (2–4 times more)
Better quality & uniform produce
Reduced pest and disease attack
Less water usage (drip irrigation)
Off-season cultivation possible
Higher income for farmers
| Merits | Demerits |
|---|---|
| Higher productivity | High initial investment |
| Year-round cultivation | Requires technical knowledge |
| Better quality crops | Maintenance cost |
| Water & fertilizer saving | Power dependency (in some systems) |
| Protection from weather | Skilled labour required |
| Higher market price | Risk if not managed properly |
1? Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse
– Low cost, suitable for moderate climate
2? Climate Controlled Polyhouse
– Fully automated, high cost, high yield
? Individual farmers
? Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
? SHGs & Cooperatives
? Entrepreneurs involved in agriculture
? Land ownership or long-term lease required
Government provides subsidy under MIDH / NHM / State Horticulture Schemes.
| Category | Subsidy |
|---|---|
| General farmers | 50% |
| SC / ST / Small farmers | 60–70% |
| Maximum area | Up to 4,000 sq. meters |
| Subsidy limit | As per state norms |
Subsidy amount varies state to state.
Capital subsidy on construction
Technical training & guidance
Support from Horticulture Department
Bank loans with subsidy linkage
Promotion of protected cultivation
Assistance in drip irrigation
High income potential
Modern farming method
Less crop failure risk
Export-quality produce
Efficient land utilization
High setup cost
Needs proper planning
Requires continuous monitoring
Not suitable without training
Polyhouse farming is protected cultivation using plastic-covered structures to control crop environment.
Cost ranges from ?800 to ?1,200 per sq. meter depending on type and materials.
Subsidy ranges from 50% to 70%, depending on category and state.
Capsicum, tomato, cucumber, flowers, and strawberries.
Yes, if managed properly, it offers very high profitability.
Structure lasts 15–20 years; plastic sheet lasts 3–5 years.
Yes, with long-term lease agreement (usually 7–15 years).
Yes, basic training is essential for success.
Yes, banks provide loans under agriculture & horticulture schemes.
Yes, especially with government subsidy support.