Propagation/Greenhouse Management
Part 1 – 132 | Unit 1.3
Instructor’s Demonstration 5 Outline
Demonstration 5: Greenhouse Irrigation
for the instructor
OVERVIEW
In this demonstration, students
will learn about the various tools
and techniques used to deliver
water to pre-emergent seeds and
seedlings in a given propagation
facility. Emphasis should be placed
on creating optimal soil moisture
conditions to facilitate healthy plant
growth through proper irrigation
frequencies and volumes of water
applied. You should also discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of the
systems and tools used.
PREPARATION AND MATERIALS- All irrigation equipment commonly used in the propagation
facility (e.g., hoses, watering cans, fixed spray nozzles,
irrigation timers and solenoid control valves, mist systems,
etc.) - Recently sown seeds in flat and cell tray format
- Seedlings in flat and cell tray format
PREPARATION TIME
1 hourDEMONSTRATION TIME
1 hourDEMONSTRATION OUTLINEA. Irrigating Seeds and Seedlings- Discuss and demonstrate irrigation techniques prior to
seedling emergence with attention to the differences in
wet-to-dry swing for large- and small-seeded crops - Discuss and demonstrate irrigation techniques used for
post-seedling emergence and early seedling development - Discuss the typical changes in frequency and volume of
water delivered during seedling development (i.e., from
pre-germination—frequent, shallow applications—to
lower frequency, greater volume of water supplied as
seedlings mature) - Discuss and demonstrate any necessary adjustments
needed based on germination, disease or pest problems,
and/or plant growth observations - Emphasize the importance of paying extra attention
to corners and edges of greenhouse; these are often
overlooked