So you're a horticulturalist with a passion for growing plants, and you've decided to build a greenhouse. This is actually a common project for many gardening enthusiasts, though the size of the job can be intimidating.
Luckily for you, learning how to build a greenhouse is all a matter of knowing what to learn from. And, today, it's our complete pleasure to bring you our ten-step guide to putting together a greenhouse of your very own.
1. Location
The first and most important factor in building any greenhouse is finding the right place to build it. And what makes all the difference when it comes to choosing a location is good, consistent sunlight.
Start by choosing a south or north-facing location. This depends on where you build your greenhouse. Give preference to locations with morning sun over ones with afternoon sun. If there are trees nearby, choose a spot that won't be in their shadow until late afternoon.
A good tip is to build your structure in a location near deciduous trees, not evergreen. Because deciduous plants lose their leaves in the winter, they will block less of the sun from entering the greenhouse in the winter. This is a period when your plans will need the most sun, so everybody wins!
2. High-Quality Doors, Hinges, and Hardware
If you commit to building a greenhouse, it is imperative that you not skimp on quality. Your structure needs entry and exit points that both work stylistically and are functional as well.
Door options come in a range of different colors and styles. Do your homework and find the right model for you. Look for components with insulating properties and high-quality construction. With so much to choose from, there are combinations out there for everyone.
3. Premium Covering
Choosing the right covering is central to quality greenhouse construction. With materials in different thicknesses and styles, though, it's easier than you might think to find a covering that fits your needs.
Strong, durable, and cut to the measurements you need for your specific house, polycarbonate materials won't tear or wear out. Choose a durable covering, remember to read the guidelines for installation, and get you'll have a structure that stands the test of time.
4. Cooling and Ventilation
Ventilation is one of the most common concerns most people have before building their own greenhouses - and with good reason! Greenhouse ventilation and cooling keep your plants from overheating.
Cooling systems make use of mechanical and natural ventilation, to actively bring down the temperature of a room. They may also use shading to achieve the same effect. Quality products are important in achieving efficient homeostasis. Select the appropriately-sized system and you'll have a perfectly-cooled growing room.
5. A Heating System
Any complete greenhouse structure should incorporate heating to create a healthy environment. Heating systems circulate warmed air around the room with the help of your ventilation installation.
Heating has a direct correlation to the type of growth, from propane, natural gas and oil heaters to convection tubing and hot water. Greenhouse heating systems come down to what it is your greenhouse structure is going to be used for.
6. Environmental Control Systems
Greenhouse growing is all about control. That's the whole idea - the create an environment that is more efficient than the outside world at growing plants in.
Creating a greenhouse that is equal parts functional and energy-efficient, you have to maintain control. Thermostats, integrated computers, and other specific controls let you set the interior to exactly what it needs to be for growth. More importantly, they're also easy to use, so you can be accurate without running the risk of destroying your plant growth.
7. More Specific Systems
As with most things, no two greenhouses are ever built the same. What that comes down to, usually, is the fact that most people have their own plant preferences.
With that in mind, novices should research relevant systems for their unique greenhouses. CO2 generators, for example, aren't always necessary but can improve growth for certain plants. A simple irrigation installation, meanwhile, helps plants to stay properly watered, constantly.
There are always solutions to any build. Investigate your specific needs and ask about components to help create a perfect growth environment.
8. Functional Seating
What most people forget about greenhouses is that it's not just plants that spend their time in them, it's also people. Greenhouse owners walk these structures for maintenance and watering purposes pretty regularly.
And what's the one thing you need in an area you walk up and down for a few hours at a time every few days? Seating. Available in various materials and styles, benches offer long-lasting, unobtrusive seating. Perfect for taking a short break during your daily growing work.
9. Place Your Order
And, finally, with all of those factors in place, you're officially ready to start putting your greenhouse together. With your greenhouse plans and components in place, as well as any accessories, it's time to order your greenhouse.
Gather your order together, fill up your shopping carts, and give the entire order one more look-over. It might seem strange, but this part of the process is a lot like ordering a textbook off of Amazon. Place your order, process your payment, and get ready to collect your greenhouse on delivery day.
10. Build It
So, you've Googled "how to build greenhouse". You found this article and got all of the information you need to build it. You found and ordered your components, and the big day is finally here. It's time to get building.
Start with the basic structure. Get a building permit from your local government, hire any construction help you might need, and follow the instructions to the letter.
Though it might seem daunting, learning how to make a greenhouse is just like any other DIY project. Stick to the plan, work slowly, and it's just a matter of time until your greenhouse is ready for use.
How To Build A Greenhouse? One Brick At A Time
If you're wondering how to build a greenhouse, congratulations: you've already taken the first step towards getting the job done. Hopefully, with today's tips in hand, you'll be ready to take the second one.
For more horticultural advice, tips, and resources visit Decker's Nursery today and get the best out of your garden.