As a gardener, what would you like to grow? Food, flowers, plants, trees for personal use or to start a business? Once this question has been addressed, the next item to check is whether there is enough space to set up a greenhouse and what the relevant codes for setting it up might be.
Greenhouses offer flexibility and let us grow all kinds of plants year-round. The right-sized greenhouse also allows for a stable environment to grow plants from seed. How do you find the right greenhouse to meet your needs?
Size
It is a known fact that most nurseries have a limited range of plants and seedlings to choose from. If you have a green thumb and like to grow more than just tomatoes, herbs and flowers in the front yard, a small greenhouse for sale would serve your needs.
Ensure that there is enough space for potting soil, a bench and some space for your supplies. If you want to be a commercial operation, then you will have to get a big greenhouse with plenty of room for many items.
Type
There is a number to choose from – cold frames, portable cloches, walk-in options, and conservatories. Experts suggest that you buy the largest one you can afford, based on the space available to set it up. It is hard to add on to a greenhouse, and avid gardeners always run out of space.
Glazing
Another question to address is whether you want the panels on your greenhouse to be clear, diffused or opaque. This is essential as it will determine the amount and strength of light you receive for your plants. If the main goal is to start seedlings, clear panels are a good choice.
To grow plants till they are mature, you will need diffused light. For this, multi-wall polycarbonate walls are good for diffused light. Talk to an expert to get the right balance for your greenhouse.
Insulation
This will play a key role based on where you live. If you live in a very cold part of the country and want to grow vegetables year-round, you will need a well-insulated greenhouse.
If you live in a region with mild winters or warm climates, less insulation will work quite well. Glass panels work well in this type of climate and work well in sunny areas.
Design
You will have to take weather into account as well — glass panels are not advisable for extreme weather such as tornados or very cold places as they could crack. Plastic panels or polyethylene film may be a better option. Make sure that the overall design is sturdy as it will have to stand up to different weather situations.
Site
Choose a good spot for your greenhouse. It should have enough sunlight and be in a well-ventilated area. It would also be essential to check zoning regulations in your neighborhood and get the necessary permission to set up a structure in your yard.
Also check on what must be done to prepare a site before installing a greenhouse — good drainage, flooring materials, and so forth. Once this has been taken care of, you can assemble your greenhouse and start growing what you want.
