What is the primary purpose of a greenhouse?

The primary purpose of a greenhouse is to admit natural light and control the atmosphere for plant growth. A greenhouse provides an environment that can be carefully managed to optimize conditions for plants. This includes temperature control, humidity regulation, and protection from adverse weather conditions. By trapping sunlight and providing a warm, sheltered environment, greenhouses help extend the growing season and can allow for the cultivation of plants year-round, regardless of external climate conditions.

While protecting crops from pests and diseases is certainly an important aspect of agriculture and can be a function of a greenhouse, it is not the overarching purpose of the structure. The main focus is on creating an ideal growth environment through light and atmospheric control.

Therefore, the emphasis on controlling factors like temperature and light within a greenhouse illustrates why it is crucial for successful plant cultivation, making this answer the most accurate representation of the primary function of a greenhouse.