Polyhouse farming will transform how farmers farm in India! In simple terms, it is a way to grow crops in a controlled environment using a house-like structure built with transparent material.
Farmers in rural and semi-urban areas have started to take up this method of growing crops primarily for off-season growing, with the potential to earn larger yields and profits. In this blog, we will cover the whole idea in very simple ways—what polyhouse farming is, how to go about it, the pros, types, cost and whether polyhouse farming is better than greenhouse farming.
Let’s get started.
What is Polyhouse Farming?
The polyhouse is a mode of protected cultivation; crops grown within a protected structure using UV-stabilized polyfilm and maintained as a crop system. In terms of control, polyhouse production is able to control temperature, humidity, light, and pests, meaning they are not restricted to outdoor situations by elements (for example, it is possible to grow sensitive crops in an aggressive climate).
Most structures are built with galvanized iron and covered with plastic sheeting, blocking harmful UV rays from the sun while allowing sunlight into the structure. As a result, phenotypically, plants can grow faster, larger and healthier.
Related: How to Start a Profitable Mushroom Farming Business
Polyhouse Farming Benefits in India
In a country like India, where agriculture is highly dependent on climatic conditions and seasons, polyhouse farming gives farmers greater access and flexibility because crops can be grown in any season.
In India, there are many climates across the country, and that’s where the fascinating effect of polyhouse farming occurs. Here are the main advantages for Indian farmers:
- Higher Yields: Crops grow faster and better because of the controlled conditions. One can get 2–3 times more yield compared to open farming.
- Water Saving: Polyhouse farming uses drip irrigation, which saves around 40–50% water.
- Off-Season Cultivation: You can grow crops all year long, even in harsh winters or hot summers. That means steady income.
- Pest Control: Pests and diseases are much lower, which saves money on pesticides.
- Better Quality Produce: Crops like capsicum, cucumber, flowers, and tomatoes are grown in better quality and fetch higher prices in the market.
- Employment Generation: It creates more work opportunities in rural areas, as skilled labor is needed to manage the structure and crops.
4 Types of Polyhouse Structures
There are many polyhouse structures based on size, design, and crop needs. Some are naturally ventilated, while others use fan-pad cooling. here are many types of polyhouse setups available in India depending on the crop, location, and budget. Below are the main types:
Some are vented, while others utilize fan-pad cooling. In India, there are numerous types of polyhouse structures available, depending on crops, region, and budget. The following are the primary groups of polyhouses:
1. Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse
No use of electric equipment, depends on windows and vents for air circulation. Best for moderate climates.
2. Fan and Pad Polyhouse
Uses fans and wet pads to control temperature and humidity. Cost is higher but results are excellent.
3. Low-Cost Polyhouse
Made with bamboo or local material, suitable for short-term farming or trial crops.
4. Hi-Tech Polyhouse
Fully automated system with temperature, humidity, and irrigation control. Expensive but very productive.
Want to understand how a polyhouse really works? this video clearly explains the science behind polyhouse farming: Plantation | Farming, Cultivation | Agro Based and Livestock Projects
Setup Cost of Polyhouse in India
The price for constructing a polyhouse located in India can be determined by several variables, including geo-location, size, and how you construct it.
Establishing a polyhouse will require an investment, but it will provide a good return on investment. The following are average costs:
| Type of Polyhouse | Cost per Sq. Meter | Description |
| Low-cost Polyhouse | ₹300 – ₹400 | Basic, small-scale, temporary |
| Naturally Ventilated | ₹500 – ₹800 | Semi-permanent, suitable for vegetables |
| Fan & Pad Polyhouse | ₹900 – ₹1500 | Automated control system, high-end |
Related: How to Start Biofertilizer Manufacturing Business and Organic Farming
Polyhouse Maintenance Tips
A clean polyfilm and fresh air should be checked every day, and check for rust on the galvanized iron frame and clean the galvanized iron frame whenever anything rusts.
All irrigation and control systems should also be checked every month. Maintenance helps support the benefits of protected cultivation while improving the overall health of plants for longer than unprotected cultivation.
- Regular Cleaning
Clean the polyfilm with water once a month to avoid dust and algae buildup.
- Check for Damages
UV-stabilized polyfilm and galvanized iron frame should be checked for tears, rust, or damage regularly.
- Pest Control
Even though polyhouse reduces pests, weekly checks and using sticky traps or organic sprays is helpful.
- Irrigation System Check
Drip system pipes can get clogged. Flush them once in 10–15 days.
- Temperature Monitoring
Use a simple thermometer and hygrometer to monitor inside conditions daily.
How Polyhouse Farms Trap Greenhouse Gases
You may be thinking, “That sounds complicated!” but it really isn’t. In polyhouses / Tunnels, sunlight comes through the plastic sheet (polyfilm), warms it up inside, and the heat gets trapped in, much like a greenhouse. The trapped heat can keep crops warm, which is useful during the colder winter season.
Due to this effect, polyhouses can produce crops that require a warmer climate in cooler environments. It is one thing to use the polyhouse/tunnel as a hurdle for winter weather; it is quite another to become part of the CO₂ emissions problem.
Is Polyhouse Better Than Greenhouse?
Polyhouse farming seems to be more beneficial than the conventional greenhouse method in Indian conditions, making it an attractive option for farmers.
First, polyhouse farming is cheaper, easier to manage, and has better outcomes for off-season production. When managed as a controlled environment, growing vegetables and flowers with reduced risk and a greater return. This is a common question. Asking if polyhouse farming is suitable for you is a fair question. The answer? It depends on your objectives.
| Feature | Polyhouse | Greenhouse |
| Material Used | UV polyfilm | Glass or polycarbonate |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Durability | 3–5 years | 10+ years |
| Climate Control | Semi- or full automation | High-end full control |
| Light Transmission | Medium | High |
| Usage | Vegetables, flowers | Research, export farming |
Detailed Comparison Between Polyhouse and Greenhouse: CLICK HERE TO WATCH
Polyhouse vs Greenhouse Farming Comparison – Which One to Choose?
Polyhouse farming suits small to medium farms with limited funds. Greenhouses are costlier but work well in extreme weather. Both support protected cultivation, but polyhouses use UV-stabilized polyfilm and are more common in India due to low setup cost.
If your goal is to:
- Start small – choose polyhouse
- Export quality flowers or exotic veggies – go for greenhouse
- Cut cost and use subsidy – polyhouse is better
- Long-term durability with higher investment – greenhouse
At the end, both are part of protected cultivation, but polyhouse farming is more accessible for small and medium farmers in India.
If you are passionate about automation, greenhouse performance, or biofertilizer integration, then you should check out The Complete Technology Book on Biofertilizer & Organic Farming (4th edition).
Final Words: Should You Try Polyhouse Farming?
Polyhouse farming is not just a trend—it’s the future of Indian agriculture. With better crop yields, off-season cultivation, water-saving, and protection from pests, it offers a lot of promise. It’s also scalable, which means you can start small and grow your setup later.
And with government subsidies, loans, and expert support available, there has never been a better time to start your polyhouse farming journey.
If you need help setting up a polyhouse or want to download a ready-made checklist or project plan, just reach out to us.
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