Growers thrive with online training

By Andi Anderson

The Greenhouse College of Knowledge Online Course Series, developed by Michigan State University, has provided essential training to 1,343 commercial greenhouse growers from 47 countries, 48 U.S. states, and 42 Michigan counties.

This accessible and cost-effective online education platform offers comprehensive courses in various aspects of greenhouse management, helping growers improve their practices and enhance crop quality across millions of square feet of greenhouse space.

These courses, which evolved from the original face-to-face College of Knowledge courses offered between 1999 and 2011, have been available online since 2015.

Each year, four noncredit courses are offered during the winter, covering topics such as Biological Control for Greenhouse Growers, Greenhouse and Horticultural Lighting, Root Zone Management, and Abiotic Disorders of Greenhouse Crops.

The courses, priced at $129, include 2.5 to 4 hours of pre-recorded videos, handouts, quizzes, and additional resources. Participants evaluate their progress through pre- and post-course tests and self-assessment quizzes.

Surveyed participants reported significant improvements in their greenhouse practices:

Biological Control for Greenhouse Growers: 86% of participants changed practices, impacting 1.35 billion square feet of greenhouse space, with 45% reducing pesticide usage.

Greenhouse and Horticultural Lighting: 60% of participants improved lighting strategies, affecting 27.4 million square feet of greenhouse space.

Root Zone Management: 94% of participants enhanced nutrient management, benefiting 7.2 million square feet of greenhouse space.

Abiotic Disorders of Greenhouse Crops: 95% of participants became more confident in diagnosing plant problems, impacting 4 million square feet of greenhouse space.

The Greenhouse College of Knowledge courses have proven to be a valuable resource for growers, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to optimize greenhouse operations, improve crop quality, and increase overall profitability.

These courses continue to play a crucial role in advancing greenhouse practices worldwide, offering a practical and effective learning platform for growers of all levels.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-karen-massier