The design of horticultural structures

Abstract

The basic methods and skills used to design horticultural structures are identical to those used to design large buildings or bridges. However, to produce a design that is acceptable to the client, the design approach needs to be significantly different. This paper offers guidance by discussing aspects of design philosophy and consequences of failure. It also reports or refers to research that is particularly relevant to the design of horticultural structures. To this end, the authors recommend the references listed. This is not a comprehensive and stand-alone document. It does however, signpost the directions, and reports on research not previously published. Our experience of horticultural structures has been in the design of artificial shelter, crop supports and horizontal canopies, which are described below.