Where To Put Your Greenhouse?

The optimal location for a greenhouse is typically on the south or southeast side of the house, in a sunny area that receives the most sun from fall through winter (November to February). Factors such as climate, sunlight, and soil type play a significant role in choosing the ideal location. By designing efficient pathways, strategically arranging benches, shelves, and work areas, and ensuring proper ventilation, you can create an optimal greenhouse layout.

Orientation is another crucial aspect of greenhouse design, with three schools of thought: capturing the morning sun, capturing the winter sun, and orienting plant growth instead of the building. To maximize light and avoid shade and exposed, draughty positions, it is recommended to position the greenhouse lengthwise North to South to catch the maximum amount of light and on a surface with good drainage propensities.

Situation should also ensure ample light, natural daylight, and protection from harsh winds and frost pockets. It is essential to choose a location where the greenhouse will receive at least six hours of sunlight daily, especially on the south or southeast side of the house. Level ground and good soil are crucial, and low-lying areas should be avoided.

South-facing locations are ideal, but East- and West-facing spots can also work, just be sure to account for the angle of the sun at different times of day. Aligning the longest side of the greenhouse to face south will attract the most amount of sunlight during the day. This comprehensive guide will help you make the right choice for your greenhouse, whether you are a seasoned pro or new to greenhouse growing.

Should a greenhouse be in the sun or shade?

Greenhouses should be placed in areas with uninterrupted sun and protection from cold winds to promote plant growth. Wood is a popular material for glasshouses, with a natural metal or painted finish. It requires no upkeep and produces minimal shade. Wood is a traditional building material, suitable for some garden styles but requires periodic maintenance. Wooden frames are bulkier and can cast excessive shade. The height of the eaves at the eaves is crucial for light transmission and plant growth. A minimum of 1. 5m (5ft) tall eaves is recommended, with a maximum of 1. 8m (6ft) or more.

How should I position my greenhouse?

The best position for a greenhouse is to ensure it receives ample sunlight, is away from trees, is spacious, and can be easily accessible. This is crucial for a greenhouse’s long-term growth and success. While there are many options to change about a greenhouse, such as growing in pots or raised beds, or installing ventilation, changing its location is time-consuming and costly. Therefore, it’s essential to follow these best practices when choosing a greenhouse for your garden.

Should you close a greenhouse at night?

To ensure optimal greenhouse ventilation, use a maximum-minimum thermometer to monitor the temperature and be alert for signs of plant damage. Open doors and vents on sunny days, and temporarily remove panes to help during heat waves. Fit automatic vent openers to ensure roof vents open even when you’re not around, but remember that it takes time for the wax to expand. Provide alternative ventilation such as doors and side vents to prevent damaging temperatures. In changeable weather, vents and doors may need to be partially open to limit sudden temperature increases. Larger greenhouses may require automated ventilation and shading.

Shading is usually required from mid-spring until early autumn to release some heat but limits the light plants receive. Use only the minimum amount of shading to keep temperatures below 25-27ºC (77-81ºF), allowing as much light in as possible, especially for edible plants like tomatoes. Sun-loving plants like succulents may not need shading, but providing shade can make the greenhouse more pleasant.

What are the negatives of a greenhouse?

Greenhouses have several disadvantages, including increased monthly costs for heating, ventilation, and watering, as well as the installation cost. While these costs may be worth absorbing for businesses, hobby gardeners can extend their growing season without the high cost. Greenhouses also require more maintenance than outdoor gardens, including cleaning windows, using insect screens, and maintaining heating, ventilation, and watering systems. Additionally, greenhouses are walled-off ecosystems, making them susceptible to pest or disease spread. Pollinators must be introduced, and other insects may need to prey on pests.

What should I put on the bottom of my greenhouse?

Greenhouse floors can be made from various materials, with poured concrete being the most ideal choice due to its ease of cleaning, drainage, and heat retention. However, there are other options available depending on the budget and considerations. Before installing the floor, it is crucial to consider factors such as time spent in the greenhouse, the longevity of different flooring materials, and the budget. Concrete, for example, can last many years, while mulch floors degrade rapidly. Ultimately, the choice should be based on the specific needs and preferences of the greenhouse.

Where not to put a greenhouse?

Place a greenhouse under tall trees to reduce sunlight and prevent glass damage. High walls, hedges, and trees can serve as windbreaks, providing shelter without blocking light. These barriers keep plants warm and prevent wind damage during storms. However, it’s important to ensure the trees are a suitable distance to provide shelter without blocking light. Providing ample room for cleaning and maintenance is crucial for maintaining a healthy greenhouse environment.

What is the best way to layout a greenhouse?

When setting up a greenhouse, consider creating a comfortable and easy-to-move space with wide aisles and a designated potting spot. Each plant should have its own microclimate to thrive, making the greenhouse a pleasant and peaceful garden retreat. Maximize your space by using shelves for vertical gardening, tiered benches for efficient plant organization, and hanging plants for depth and air circulation. These strategies can save floor space and create an attractive display of your greenery.

By arranging plants in a way that suits their unique needs, you can create a harmonious and enjoyable environment for both plants and you. By incorporating these strategies, you can create a dynamic and enjoyable greenhouse experience for both you and your plants.

Where is the best place for an indoor greenhouse?

In order to optimize the utilization of a greenhouse, it is essential to ensure that the structure is situated in an area that receives an adequate amount of sunlight and is in close proximity to a window. In the event that the level of natural light is insufficient, it may be advisable to consider the purchase of a grow light. For a smaller indoor greenhouse, an alternative option is to construct a picture frame mini greenhouse by spray-painting and hot-gluing picture frames together. It is recommended that the greenhouse be situated in close proximity to a window to create an aesthetically pleasing and functional indoor space.

Where should you not put a greenhouse?

Place a greenhouse under tall trees to reduce sunlight and prevent glass damage. High walls, hedges, and trees can serve as windbreaks, providing shelter without blocking light. These barriers keep plants warm and prevent wind damage during storms. However, it’s important to ensure the trees are a suitable distance to provide shelter without blocking light. Providing ample room for cleaning and maintenance is crucial for maintaining a healthy greenhouse environment.

What are the 3 common layouts in a greenhouse?

There are three main types of greenhouses: lean-to, detached, and ridge and furrow or gutter connected. Lean-to greenhouses are popular among hobbyists due to size limitations. Detached greenhouses, such as the Quonset, stand independently and can be connected to work areas or access another greenhouse through a corridor. These houses, constructed from arched rafters and solid end walls, are suitable for most crops but have a restricted growing area near side walls, reducing efficiency and productivity. Quonset greenhouses are commonly used for commercial production.

Should a greenhouse have a floor or no floor?

A greenhouse is a cozy garden space with decorative plants and a fireplace, ideal for those who prefer a solid floor. This doesn’t mean sacrificing plant cultivation options, as capillary boxes, pots, containers, or buckets can be used. Additionally, leaving holes in the ground allows for planting olive trees, fig trees, or winter-resistant plants. A greenhouse with fixed beds and decorative flooring can accommodate both capillary boxes and a table.