A Comprehensive Guide To Buying A Greenhouse

Greenhouses act as a barrier between the environment and the plants you are growing, allowing you to lengthen and boost your growth cycle.

The purpose of a greenhouse is to provide a space where heat may be stored. It is designed to impede the flow of thermal energy and the sunlight that passes through the transparent walls in the greenhouse, which radiates heat and warms the air. Greenhouses also keep plants from freezing under negative temperatures.

Aside from knowing what to plant in your greenhouse, owning greenhouse grants you the option to grow your food, conserve power, get relevant gardening experience, and unwind.

If you are looking for tips on buying one, you are in the right place!

BENEFITS OF A GREENHOUSE

Greenhouses offer numerous advantages for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here's a breakdown of how a greenhouse can enhance your gardening experience:

  1. Extended Growing Season: By controlling the environment, greenhouses allow you to start planting earlier in the spring and continue growing later into the fall, and in some cases, all year round.

  2. Protection from Weather: Greenhouses shield plants from adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, and extreme temperatures, providing a more stable growing environment.

  3. Pest and Disease Control: The enclosed space of a greenhouse helps reduce the risk of pests and diseases affecting your plants.

  4. Optimized Growing Conditions: Greenhouses can maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels, ensuring that your plants thrive.

  5. Conservation of Resources: With a controlled environment, greenhouses can help conserve water and reduce the need for pesticides.

  6. Homegrown Food: Grow your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, ensuring fresh and organic produce.

  7. Learning and Relaxation: Gardening in a greenhouse can be a therapeutic activity, providing both educational and relaxing experiences.

Types Of Greenhouses:

Conventional

Most gardening that requires protection from the harsh environment may be done in a conventional greenhouse. This type gives you plenty of space to move around within the greenhouse.
In warmer climates, conventional greenhouses are efficient. Wood, PVC, LDPE plastic, or metal are the most common greenhouse materials. Glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate panels are also used to construct the house frame, which may be wrapped in Visqueen plastic, LDPE, or marine vinyl sheeting. They come in various shapes, including A-Frame, Quonset, and Gothic Arch.

Lean-to Greenhouses

Attached to one side of a building, typically a house or garage, they share one wall with the existing structure. Made from wood, metal, or plastic frames with glass or polycarbonate panels, they utilize existing structures for support and heating, ideal for small gardens or urban settings, but limited by the size and shape of the existing structure.

Tunnel and Arch-shaped

These greenhouse designs are cost-effective and straightforward, resulting in increased agricultural output. They shield plants from harsh weather, such as extreme colds and rainstorms.
Tunnel greenhouses feature a half-circle roof that gives them the appearance of a tunnel. Plants are rarely grown vertically but rather horizontally. They are designed mainly for small spaces. Snow and rain flow off easily because of its form.
An arch-shaped greenhouse has a pointed top and a barn-style design and is oval rather than round. Because there is no surface for snow to pile up on, it just slides down the sides.

Portable

With a portable greenhouse, you may conveniently shift cultivation according to weather and season. You may also change its position in places with little sunshine to follow the sunlight.  There is no need to miss out on the pleasures of growing herbs and veggies due to a lack of space. Even the smallest patio, balcony, porch, or yard may be transformed with a suitable model.

HOW GREENHOUSES WORK

Greenhouses are designed to trap heat from the sun, creating a warm environment for plants. Here's how they function:

  • Heat Retention: The transparent walls of a greenhouse allow sunlight to enter, which warms the soil and plants inside. This heat is then trapped by the greenhouse structure, raising the internal temperature.
  • Thermal Insulation: The materials used in greenhouse construction impede the flow of thermal energy, preventing heat loss and maintaining a stable internal climate.
  • Frost Protection: By maintaining a higher internal temperature, greenhouses protect plants from freezing during cold weather.

Tips for Buying a Greenhouse

When considering purchasing a greenhouse, consider the following tips:

  1. Size and Space: Choose a greenhouse size that fits your available space and meets your gardening needs. Consider future expansion when selecting the size.
  2. Material: Greenhouses can be made from various materials like glass, polycarbonate, or plastic. Each material has its pros and cons in terms of durability, insulation, and cost.
  3. Ventilation: Ensure the greenhouse has adequate ventilation to prevent overheating and maintain air circulation. This is a serious investment that should not be ignored or underestimated.
  4. Heating and Cooling: Depending on your climate, you might need additional heating in winter or cooling in summer. For example using plant growth enhancing lightings to increase temperature during cold days and using humidifiers and/or fans on days with high temperature or less ventilation.
  5. Location: Place your greenhouse in a spot that receives maximum sunlight throughout the day. Avoid shaded areas or places with strong winds.
  6. Foundation: A solid foundation is crucial for the stability and longevity of your greenhouse.
  7. Budget: Set a budget that includes not only the initial purchase but also ongoing maintenance and additional equipment like shelving, bags, heaters, and fans.