Important Points To Consider Before You Buy A Greenhouse

By Katina Brady


The arrival of winter does not have to mean the end of gardening for those with a green thumb who love to grow plants and flowers, not with a cozy greenhouse in their own backyard. Before going to buy a greenhouse, it's a good idea for gardeners to keep these guidelines in mind in order to choose a design which will best meet their needs.

Before anything else, one must be certain that there is a suitable location for the greenhouse. The ideal spot should be free of trees, exposed to adequate sunlight, and protected from strong winds. Ample space should be left around its perimeter, for easy repair access, and it should be placed in close proximity to the house if electrical wiring will be installed.

Some greenhouses have an additional heating source, while others do not, this largely depends on how they will be used and when. Gardeners who plan on growing seedlings over the winter, will definitely require heating. A high temperature can be achieved with gas, paraffin, or electric heat systems, and moderate warmth can be established with insulating bubble-wrap. Temperatures should generally not be lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Its glass walls need to permit sufficient light to enter, and should be able to stand up to years of use and exposure to the elements. These can be made from traditional glazing glass, polycarbonate safety glass, or toughened safety glass. The latter two are more resistant to shattering, however they allow less sunlight in, while the former is more readily replaced if needed and encourages maximum light entry.

The frame may be made from either wood or aluminum. The former usually has a nicer appearance, and can have either full or half-glass walls, but is also more expensive. The latter costs less and provides ultimate durability as it is not subject to rot like wood is, the aluminum may be left plain or have a colored powdered coating applied to enhance its appearance.

In order to ensure suitable airflow in the structure, adequate ventilation is needed. This is done most effectively by installing both roof vents to eliminate hot air, and side vents to draw in fresh air from outside. Solar power vents and automatic vent openers make it easier to control their operation.

The gardener will also want to give some thought to the style of doors he or she prefers, either sliding or hinged, and the most suitable type of flooring. The roof shapes vary as well, and are a matter of personal and practical preference. A base gives the structure stability, and if it is wooden, it deters rotting.

The final touches to install, once the assembly of the greenhouse is complete, can include a water storage system, benching and staging. Plants are grown on specially designed shelves known as benching and staging, which can be either solid or slatted. Supply shelves can be installed underneath them. Water is usually collected from the greenhouse's roof and is used for watering plants.




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