Greenhouses

Introduction
Greenhouses are available in a large variety of sizes, shapes, materials of construction and accessories. If you wish to construct your own greenhouse, there are detailed plans available on-line and in publications which show step by step how to purchase materials and construct greenhouses from scratch.  These greenhouses can be easily assembled by purchasers who have limited handyman ability. A large variety of kits can be purchased which contain all of the parts, accessories and instructions necessary to erect quality greenhouses. The larger, commercial greenhouses are best erected by contractors experienced in this type of construction.

Types of Structures

Greenhouses fall into several categories:
1.    Freestanding or lean-to (attached)
2.    Commercial or hobbyist
3.     Permanent or temporary

The third category relates to the local building permit process. Most jurisdictions require a building permit for a permanent structure, defined as having a floor slab and/or foundation under the walls. When planning your project, check with your local jurisdiction regarding this issue.

The first category is self-explanatory. The advantages of a lean-to structure are easy access in inclement weather and heat transfer from your house to the lean-to.

Commercial greenhouses are for the most part large metal framed structures with replaceable coverings. They are freestanding but can be multiplexed side by side to create large open space for maximum production.

  Hobbyist greenhouses come in a variety of types and sizes, from less expensive to very expensive redwood and glass greenhouses which can enhance the value of your property. You should be able to find a match to your particular financial and space circumstance because of the large selection available.


Garden Starter® Greenhouse


Greenhouse Uses

Greenhouses serve a multitude of purposes. The more common uses for greenhouses are:
•    Over wintering outside plants which you do not want to lose.
•    Growing tender vegetable and herb plants for fresh use during the winter.
•    Growing plants which thrive best under controlled temperature and humidity conditions, such as orchids.
•    Starting seeds and promoting starter plant growth for spring and summer planting.

Other, less common uses for greenhouses are:
•    Use as a sanctuary or relaxation area, capitalizing on the serene, green, oxygen producing atmosphere present in greenhouses.
•    Use at schools and colleges to augment agricultural, natural science and biology lesson plans.
•    Use as a sunny lifestyle extension room or sun room.

More exotic uses for greenhouses are as incubators to hatch chicks and as aviaries for birds compatible with the plants grown. The uses for greenhouses are only limited by the imagination. Let your imagination soar!