Why should I own a greenhouse?

Gardening experts as well as novices will benefit from having a greenhouse. First, many people are deciding to grow their own produce to ensure that their food is grown organically. This also reduces pollution by eliminating any travelling your food would normally have to do to get to you. Because greenhouses are available in a range of prices, it is feasible to find a starter greenhouse at a reasonable price. Greenhouses are also great for vocational education. Whatever your reason, greenhouses prove to be a rewarding experience all year round.

What will I need to start?

First, do some basic reading on greenhouses. Educate yourself on the plants and produce you are interested in cultivating. This way you can be sure to have plenty of space for your interests. Once you have your greenhouse picked out, there are some fundamental requirements that your greenhouse, and what you are growing inside of it, will undoubtedly need. A base, foundation, or anchor will be needed to secure your greenhouse to the ground. Depending on what season you begin, you will need to consider various cooling and heating methods. Portable fans, heaters, and strategic vent positioning are all inexpensive and simple solutions for heating and cooling your greenhouse. Also, make sure that there is enough shelving or work bench space to place your greenery. Some of the answers below may elaborate on the subjects discusssed here.

How do I prepare my greenhouse site?

Not much preparation is needed before securing your greenhouse. First and foremost, you will need to have a level ground. If your greenhouse requires a base or foundation, then you may need to have a bare lawn without any sod or gravel. If you would like to build a permanent foundation for your greenhouse, you may find it beneficial to contact a local contractor for further information and/or assistance. Most permanent foundations are made of wood and/or concrete.

Where is the best location for my greenhouse?

Once you've picked your greenhouse based on size, purpose and physical characteristics, select the site where you will place it. Your greenhouse should be placed where it can receive maximum sunlight. This would be facing the south or southeast part of your yard. Morning sunlight is the best because it will begin the plants' food production early in the day. An eastern-facing location will capture light the best in the winter sunlight (November to February). If the greenhouse is placed in a western-facing location, it will receive sunlight later in the day. Lastly, if the greenhouse is facing the north, it will receive the least amount of light. Shading can be used to regulate lighting. Consider the natural shade of surrounding trees. Shade cloths are strong, weatherproof, and will protect your plants from the scorching sun. Shade cloths come in various sizes so that you can cover as little or as much of the greenhouse as needed.

What can I grow in my greenhouse?

You have so many choices! You will now be able to grow plants, vegetables, and herbs that would otherwise be impossible in your area and climate. With a greenhouse, you will be able to create a microenvironment that can grow even the most exotic plants.

Why is ventilation so important?

Ventilation is crucial in providing your plants with plenty of fresh carbon dioxide. Your goal is to remove the air from the inside of the greenhouse and replace it with fresh outside air. You will want to maintain an even flow of air, maintain relative humidity, and keep gas concentration at an acceptable level. Each season will require different methods of ventilation. In the winter, fresh air circulation will prevent stale and moist air from causing mold. In the summer, solar radiation is high and will cause the temperature of your greenhouse to rise significantly. Ventilation will keep the inside temperature of your greenhouse down. The spring-summer season varies so much that it will be important to keep track of the humidity levels and temperature inside your greenhouse. Ventilation can be achieved naturally or mechanically. Base vents on the sides and ends of the greenhouse can achieve this. The advantage to natural ventilation is that it is free and it does not depend on a power source. Mechanical ventilation, however, will guarantee that your greenhouse has the proper amount of air circulation.

How do I prevent pests?

The best way to ward off pests starts with basic prevention. Make sure that your greenhouse drains well so that there is no standing water. Plants that are inconsistently watered and then over watered are more susceptible to pests because they are more stressed. Some plants attract bugs more than others, like tomatoes. However, other plants like basil, rosemary, and lavender actually repel bugs. Remember that the presence of some bugs is natural. If numbers seem to be getting out of control, then it might be time to consider your treatment options. There are many natural ways of ridding pests; for example, there are beneficial insects that help keep plant-harmful bugs at bay.