Why Should The Windows In My Greenhouse Face Southward?

In the northern hemisphere, greenhouses should face south, while in the southern hemisphere, they should face north. South-facing greenhouses receive the most direct sun but can overheat, so shade cloths should be added as needed. North-facing greenhouses get the least light, so grow only low-light plants. To maximize sunlight exposure, one of the longest walls should be facing south or within 20 degrees of south.

In the northern hemisphere, orienting the greenhouse with its longest sides facing true south is ideal. South-facing gives the most sunlight throughout the year. To protect against wind exposure, consider the location of your greenhouse and ensure it has 6 hours of sunlight per day during winter months.

For those in the northern hemisphere, the length of the greenhouse (longer dimension) should face south as this is where the majority of light comes from. The north side of the greenhouse should be insulated to reduce heat loss. Slanting the glazing is useful in colder climates to accumulate heat in a floor made of concrete or other mass material that then releases it.

A south-oriented greenhouse technically receives more sunlight, but it’s not always the best choice. For vegetables and flowers, a stand-alone greenhouse should be located with one of its walls facing south and slightly east. Lean-to greenhouses that are south-facing could capture too much sunshine and overheat, while a north-facing lean-to may not get sufficient sunlight.

In cold climates, it’s best to face your greenhouse south to maximize light exposure, allowing the most direct sunlight during winter.

What is the best direction to put a greenhouse?

For optimal spring and summer greenhouse use, a north-south ridge is recommended for equal light distribution. For lean-to greenhouses, a south-facing location with a supporting wall on the north side is ideal. Avoid placing the greenhouse under tall trees as they can reduce sunlight and cause glass to become dirty. Additionally, branches can break off in bad weather or high winds, potentially damaging the glass panes.

Can a greenhouse face east?

Greenhouse location is a crucial aspect of plant growth, and while many gardeners believe that a greenhouse should be facing south for optimal light, this is not always the best choice. Most plants do not need much light, and a south-facing greenhouse can be counterproductive, as it can get too hot during summer months and require shade cloth. For most hobbyist applications, a western exposure is the best, but other orientations, such as eastern or northern, can work as well.

Northern exposure may be too shady for tropical varieties and should be avoided if possible. Greenhouse hobbyists should choose a location that complements their home or garden, and remember that greenhouses do not need to be exposed to maximum light at all times. Most horticulturists prefer sunnier and shadier locations to accommodate the needs of various plant varieties. A greenhouse can work on any side of the house, except North.

What direction should greenhouse windows face?

If a greenhouse cannot face directly south, a southwest or southeast-facing greenhouse is possible. Southeast is preferable as it receives the morning sun, which helps heat up the greenhouse after it has cooled down overnight. The morning sun also helps plants warm up after being stressed and activates photosynthesis. However, caution is advised when choosing a southwest or completely west-facing greenhouse, as the afternoon sun can overheat the greenhouse.

Building a greenhouse without adequate southern exposure is not recommended unless there are limitations in what can be grown. Cool-weather and low-light crops thrive in east-facing greenhouses, while heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers thrive in west-facing greenhouses. Supplementing light may be necessary for proper fruiting.

Can you put a greenhouse on a north facing wall?

North-facing greenhouses are often considered a death-knell for gardens, but they offer numerous benefits. They are ideal for seedings and delicate plants, especially later in the season when southern aspects would be burnt to shrivel. To maximize the greenhouse’s potential, add an LED grow light, ensure it is waterproof, and use a heater to prevent frost. North-facing greenhouses are cooler, making them ideal for growing vegetables like chiles, peppers, and cucumbers. Adding a waterproof light and heater can further enhance the greenhouse’s capabilities.

Does greenhouse orientation matter?

To optimize light and plant growth in a greenhouse, position one of its longest walls facing south or within 20 degrees of south. This orientation receives morning, mid-day, and afternoon sun. Standard Sturdi-Built Greenhouse features include exterior glazing, thermal option, bayliss solar vent openers, orchid gardening, cannabis greenhouse, and all ability greenhouses. Other options include Deluxe Glass-to-Ground, Garden Deluxe, Nantucket, Solite, Trillium, Tropic, and Tudor.

What direction should a greenhouse face in South Africa?

Greenhouses should be placed in a sunny spot, with open overhead space and no shade cast by nearby trees. North-facing structures are ideal for optimal sunlight and avoid overheating, especially in summer. Greenhouses can be built separately or on the main house for indoor and outdoor access. They require adequate airflow to prevent overheating and disease proliferation, and ventilation is crucial.

Materials for greenhouses include frames made from plastic, aluminum, or treated wood, walls and roofing made from polycarbonate, plastic, fiberglass, or recycled glass panels, and providing protection from UV rays. 30 coverage is ideal for vegetables and fruits, while other tropical indoor plants need more shade. DIY greenhouses can be built out of old window frames for a unique garden feature. Hardy and weather-resistant materials are essential for protecting plants inside without damage, especially in areas with high winds or rain.

How to maximize sunlight in a greenhouse?

To optimize greenhouse lighting, consider the following factors:

1. Ensure the greenhouse is positioned to receive maximum sunlight, with south-facing orientations being most effective in the Northern Hemisphere. Minimize obstructions like trees or buildings.
2. Use light-transmitting materials like glass or polycarbonate for high light transmission. Regularly clean the coverings to prevent dust buildup.
3. Install light-diffusing materials or shade cloths to ensure even light distribution.
4. In regions with limited sunlight or winter months, supplement natural sunlight with artificial lighting like LED grow lights. These energy-efficient lights mimic the intensity and duration of natural sunlight, promoting healthy plant development.

Where is the best sun position for a greenhouse?

To maximize light and plant growth, it’s recommended to have one of the longest walls facing south or within 20 degrees of south. This orientation provides morning, mid-day, and afternoon sun. Standard Sturdi-Built Greenhouse features include exterior glazing, thermal option, bayliss solar vent openers, orchid gardening, cannabis greenhouse, and all ability greenhouses. Other options include Deluxe Glass-to-Ground, Garden Deluxe, Nantucket, Solite, Trillium, Tropic, and Tudor.

What is the least desirable location for a greenhouse?

The optimal location for a greenhouse is typically on the south or southeast side of a house, in a sunny area that receives the most sun from autumn to winter. If this option is not available, the east side, southwest or west side, or north side is the best option. The greenhouse should be positioned lengthwise from north to south, providing more light and less shade. The location near trees or bushes may result in leaves, sap, and sticky honeydew littering the structure. It is also important to avoid building the structure at the base of a slope, where cold air collects and is prone to frost. Ensure the area is level and well-draining.

Where not to put a greenhouse?

Avoid placing your greenhouse under trees as they can cast shade, encourage green algae, and block light. Falling branches and leaves can cause damage and block guttering. Honeydew from insects can make glass or plastic sticky and dirty, and tree roots can upset foundations. Ensure your greenhouse is easy to access and near your house, especially during summer, for regular visits. Avoid putting your greenhouse on a slope, as it would complicate the staging inside and create frost pockets. Ideally, place your greenhouse near your house for easy access, watering, and accessing your plants.

Do greenhouses need to be south-facing?

Large greenhouses should be facing east-west, with the door at the western end, to fully expose them to the sun from the south, especially during winter when it captures more light. This orientation is best for over-wintering tender plants. North-south-facing greenhouses with doors at the south end benefit from summer sunshine but not the full force of hot midday sun, making them ideal for growing crops like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.