Opportunities for the sustainable greenhouse production on small-scale family farms in Serbia

Abstract

In this paper a way of improving the greenhouse production on the small scale or family farms is presented. A new type of round shape greenhouse construction is introduced that should lead to more energy, economy and ecology efficient vegetable production. Energy efficiency of the spinach and tomato production in the round greenhouse was compared with common tunnel structure. Results show that, regardless the production surface restrictions, with this type of greenhouse construction financial and energy savings are possible together with the minimization of the plant protection chemical usage. If organic fertilizer is used this type of construction can lead to improved food safety production.