Greenhouses

Greenhouse Uses

Available in a range of structural types, greenhouses are designed to extend the growing season or help nonnative plants survive a different climate. For your own personal garden, consider the following specialized functions:

• Starting Seeds Early
• Propagating
• Forcing Bulbs
• Growing Exotic Plant Species
• Personal Off-Season Retreat
• Wintering Tender Plants
• Year-round Vegetable Gardens
• Hydroponics

If you are considering investing in your own backyard greenhouse, these uses can lead to additional savings in your pocket - an important consideration when budgeting for a new garden structure. Growing your own seeds and not having to buy new plants, added to the year-round protection, means that a new greenhouse will save you money in the long run.

At a time when the snowflakes have begun to settle in, imagining a warm garden oasis is quite a treat. For some, a heated glass garden filled with flowering plants and greenery, plus a cozy chair, is just the spot for some winter solace.

The Structure

The choice of greenhouse structure, and a variety of features, will depend on the type of gardening you do, the plants you plan to grow, and the zone your garden is in. From a simple glazed wooden structure to an elaborate climate-controlled house, there is a style for every need and budget.

Placement

A greenhouse can be a focal decorative part of your current garden or hidden behind the shed. Many harsh winter dwellers will add it as an extension to their own home, providing an interior garden retreat in any weather. Greenhouses essentially are divided into two main categories, the attached or the stand-alone. The choice will depend on your personal preference, budget, and placement options in your yard.

A greenhouse should be located in a sunny spot, out of severe weather, with reasonable access to utilities, on stable flat ground. Water access will be a necessity, with the need for electricity or gas another possibility.

Design

Build one yourself, hire a handyman, or order one custom-made. Whichever you decide, peruse the options online, in catalogs, or at your local garden supply center. Explore the variety of alternatives and costs; take into account your needs, before you make your final selection.

Once you have narrowed the options down, go with the largest you can afford. Place most of your budget into the size, as most indoor gardeners complain about the lack of space. Once you discover the joy of year-round gardening, you will soon find out why.

Interior

The main necessities for the interior are sturdy, well placed benches and proper storage areas. For some, their greenhouse doubles as a garden shed, but either way, it is important to have your supplies within easy reach. Layered shelving and hanging hooks will also add to the plant capacity.

Humidity controls and heating or cooling systems are for specialized gardens or climates. Depending on your needs, you may want to explore some of these luxuries. At the bare minimum your house will need vents, either as escape skylights or wall fans.

The floor is another important concern. A critical base for your stucture, it must drain well and provide steady footing when wet. Dirt will get too muddy, so if you have a dirt floor you will need to create walkways. An ideal material is pea gravel, and if you place it deep enough, it will also help to balance out the internal climate. To step it up a bit, consider a wooden deck or paving with drains as a sturdy upgrade.

Maintenance and Care

If you do basic cleanup and weatherizing, your greenhouse will easily stay in top shape. In the summer, they need extra shade to protect the plants. Either plant deciduous plants, trees, or bushes for a natural solution or use a shade cloth. Winterize your plants’ house like any other outdoor structure.

Remember that a greenhouse is basically a plant nursery where germs can spread like wildfire. As plants are clustered close together, you will need to be diligent to prevent any spread of disease or pests. Always use sterile soil, and carefully check any new plant for signs of trouble. If a plant develops a problem, remove it to a separate healing zone to avoid the potential contamination.