Build a Home Greenhouse: Guidelines for Success

There are many reasons why you may want to build a home greenhouse. A greenhouse, also commonly known as a hothouse, provides an ideal environment for a wide variety of plants, flowers, vegetable and fruits. Greenhouses are also used to start new plants or nurture exotic plants which require a tropical environment. The very first thing you need to decide is where you want to build your greenhouse and how large you would like it to be. As far as location is concerned, go for a spot that has abundant morning and evening sun. Most plants should be shaded from afternoon sunlight.

Your next decision is what kind of greenhouse you want to build. There are hot, warm and cool greenhouses. Then there are detached, lean-to and ridge and furrow styles. When it comes to the home gardener, the lean-to style is the most popular. Ridge and furrow styles are popular with commercial growers. The detached style is good for both home and commercial growers as it can be built to most any size and can stand on its own or be attached to another area. Sometimes, you'll see detached greenhouses attached to one another with passageways. No matter what style you choose, it is important to have the right supplies and equipment.

Greenhouses are crafted from glass, fiberglass or plastic. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Glass is traditional and weather-resistant. Fiberglass is even more durable and can stand up under severe weather conditions. If you choose fiberglass go for the highest quality to avoid discoloration. Plastic is becoming popular for home setups because it is inexpensive and traps heat effectively. Of course, you will also need PVC, wood and plenty of nails to construct a sturdy frame.

If you think you are ready to build a home greenhouse, you might want to read a book on the subject that features detailed plans. How to Build Your Own Greenhouse by Roger Marshall is a good choice. This book will tell you everything you need to know about building one of these structures from start to finish. There are plans for nine different greenhouses which range from very basic to complicated and ornate. Another option is to search for plans online. There are sites where you can download building plans and print them. With the right plans, you don't have to be a carpenter to build your own greenhouse!

Copyright 2007 Jack G. Nelson - All Rights Reserved





Hydroponic Gardening


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