Economic viability of soilless cucumber cultivation under naturally ventilated greenhouse conditions

Abstract

A study was carried out to evaluate the economic feasibility of soilless cucumber cultivation under naturally ventilated greenhouse conditions (with and without considering a subsidy of 50% on components of fixed cost of the greenhouse structure and plant support system). The study reveals that the fertigation levels and varieties significantly affected the economics of soilless cucumber cultivation, with being similar under growing seasons. Multistar under 100% level of fertigation recorded the highest B:C values of 1.7 and 1.4 respectively with and without considering subsidy. Irrespective of the fertigation levels, varieties and growing seasons, the average B:C value was computed to be 1.46 and 1.18 respectively with and without including subsidy. The payback period was estimated as 3.2 years from the start of the project (capital investment). However, with consideration of subsidy, the payback period was estimated to be just 1.8 years. Thus, soilless cucumber cultivation under naturally ventilated greenhouse conditions was found economically viable and the profits can further be improved through year-round cultivation of soilless cucumbers under a greenhouse aided with optimal microclimatic conditions.