Photosynthesis, respiration, and other essential plant
processes involve many chemical reactions that are
affected by the plant’s environment. A greenhouse is
constructed and operated to provide an acceptable
plant environment that will contribute to a profitable
enterprise.
Photosynthesis is the process by which light energy
in the 390–700 nanometer wavelength interval is
converted into usable chemical energy by green
plants. It is a process by which carbon dioxide
(CO2) and water (H2O), in the presence of light and
chlorophyll, are converted to carbohydrates and
oxygen.
Respiration, the reverse of photosynthesis, is
the process by which carbohydrates and fats
are broken down and CO2, H2O, and energy are
released. Maximum reactions are dependent on
temperature, with lower and upper limits between
50–85°F for most economically important plants.
Net photosynthesis depends on temperature, light
intensity, water, and nutrient availability. Respiration
processes are temperature sensitive.