Cucumber under Controlled Environment Polyhouse: A Step Forward to Enhance Farmers Income

Abstract

Present study was conducted to see profitability of cucumber crop when grown under polyhouse. Controlled environment crops have greater consistency and production is more reliable than uncontrolled open field crops. Technology is used to manage and manipulate the growing conditions to reduce uncertainty and optimise crop growth. Particularly, cucumber crop was uneconomical when grown under open field conditions due to its climate sensitiveness. Present study was conducted in cucumber which was being cultivated in environment-controlled poly house. The cost return analysis showed that the total cost of cultivation per 1000 m2 area was Rs. 307746 with an output value of Rs.888960 resulted in Benefit Cost Ratio of 2.89. As the poly house involves initial establishment costs besides maintenance costs every year. This component was amortized to be included in Total Fixed Cost component (TFC) of cost analysis. Similarly, the bed prepared for cucumber sowing also amortized as it lasts for five years once prepared. As most of the farmers were facing initial capital issues for establishing polyhouse, majority of farming fraternity till unable tap the full benefits of cucumber crop. By utilizing the policies of government, cucumber cultivation under poly house is economically beneficial.