Whether you want to grow your vegetables, start a flower garden, or enjoy fresh air and natural lighting, a greenhouse can be a fantastic addition to your home. As you plan, you’ll need to pick a size and layout, buy the right materials, decide what plants you’ll grow, and create a maintenance plan. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when building a greenhouse.
Plan the Ideal Size and Layout
Before you start building, you’ll need to plan the ideal size and layout that best suits your needs. Consider the available space in your backyard to determine the maximum length of your greenhouse.
You’ll also need to consider the layout of your greenhouse. The two popular styles are the Quonset style and the gable style. Quonset-style greenhouses are cylindrical and feature a rounded top. On the other hand, gable-style greenhouses are taller and resemble traditional houses with sloping roofs.
Buy the Right Materials
A greenhouse is only as strong as its materials, so invest in high-quality materials to create a properly structured environment. Aluminum and steel are popular options for greenhouse framing, but wood can also work for the frame. Polycarbonate panels or glass are ideal for the walls and roof.
As you shop for essential materials, you should also buy grow lights to keep your plants healthy when it’s cloudy outside. Adequate amounts of light help plants flourish; you don’t want to sacrifice this when you have overcast days.
Decide What You’ll Plant
Another consideration to make when building a greenhouse is what you’ll plant. The beauty of a greenhouse is that you can grow almost anything, regardless of the outdoor weather conditions. However, it’s essential to decide what you’ll plant before building. This will determine your planting timeline and resolve your greenhouse’s setup.
If you want to cultivate late vegetables, you’ll need a greenhouse with ample space to accommodate fully grown plants. Growing flowers will require benches that provide space for vases and pots. Likewise, if you grow plants that require constant light, such as lamb’s ears, cucumbers, and lavender, installing grow lights is a must.
Pro Tip
Many individuals wonder whether to leave grow lights on all the time. Generally, plants thrive when they receive a balanced combination of sunlight and shade. Even plants that love lots of sun need some time in the shade.
Create a Maintenance Plan
The amount of care necessary varies depending on the size and type of greenhouse and the kinds of plants you plan to grow. This includes controlling air quality, watering, and removing pests and diseases.
Stay up to date with the latest techniques to maintain your greenhouse effectively. Regular cleaning during seasonal changes and keeping plant paths clear keeps your greenhouse looking well maintained so that you can enjoy gardening in it for years to come.
