Gulkhona
Gulkhona is a term primarily used in Central Asia, particularly in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and refers to a greenhouse or a structure used for cultivating plants, especially flowers and vegetables. The word is derived from Persian and Tajik roots, with "gul" meaning flower and "khona" meaning house or room, literally translating to "flower house."
Gulkhonas are typically enclosed structures made of glass, plastic, or other transparent materials that allow sunlight to penetrate and warm the interior. This controlled environment allows for year-round cultivation, regardless of the external climate, and protects plants from harsh weather conditions, pests, and diseases.
Gulkhonas range in size from small, domestic structures used for personal gardening to large-scale commercial operations producing crops for market. The technology employed in gulkhonas can also vary widely, from simple, unheated shelters to sophisticated climate-controlled systems with automated irrigation, ventilation, and temperature regulation. The use of gulkhonas is important in regions with short growing seasons or extreme temperatures, as they enable the cultivation of crops that would otherwise be impossible to grow.