For the passionate gardener, a greenhouse is an essential part of the garden. A greenhouse is especially ideal for caring for tender plants, sowing seeds, and taking cuttings especially in harsh weather conditions such as snow.
Greenhouses come in a variety of options that depend on a lot of variables. They differ in size, structure, shape, and cost. The main determinants are however the price and the available space. Because of the many options available in the market, here is a guide to help you choose the best small greenhouse for your garden.
How To Choose a Greenhouse
In light of the immense cost and effort of putting up a greenhouse, it would be devastating to end up with the wrong one for your project. Here are a few facts you should consider to help you avoid costly mistakes.
1. The Size of Your Greenhouse
The right greenhouse will depend on the amount of space you have available. They come in an array of measurements mostly in increments of 2 feet. The most common greenhouses measure at least 8ft wide and come with extra space for shelves on their inner sides.
Experts recommend that the eaves be at least 5 feet tall to allow for maximum light. Be sure to pick the biggest one for your space and pocket as well.
2. The Shape of Your Greenhouse
There are three popular greenhouse shapes: the ridge and furrow, the detached, and the lean-to. Due to its size, the lean-to is the most popular among small scale gardeners and less popular in commercial farming.
Detached greenhouses are placed individually but can however get joined to each other to form a corridor. The Quonset is the most popular type of detached greenhouse used in commercial farming. Ridge and furrow greenhouses are joined at the eaves by a shared gutter.
3. Material of the Greenhouse
Because of its generally low price and maintenance costs, aluminum is a favorite among many farmers. Another reason it’s so popular is that It can get coated in an array of colors to enhance the beauty of your garden.
A wooden greenhouse is also very attractive and heat efficient. It is, however, more expensive to buy and maintain over the years.
4. The Glazing You’ll Use
Considering that plants take in light through the chlorophyll pigment in their leaves to provide energy for photosynthesis, the glazing you choose matters a lot to the health of your garden.
The horticultural glass allows most light to pass through and is readily available in case you need a replacement. Toughened glass is a more viable alternative in high-risk areas such as a garden with children around but is more costly.
5. Ventilation for Your Greenhouse
Air circulation within your greenhouse is essential to the health of your plants. A well-ventilated greenhouse will work wonders in preventing the buildup of mold, disease, and regulating temperatures during peak summers and winters.
Remember to pick a greenhouse with enough vents. The best small greenhouse should have an automatic vent opener for easier operation.
Pick the Best Small Greenhouse for Your Garden
While gardening is a fulfilling task, it does come with its fair share of challenges. Choosing the wrong greenhouse can be a costly mistake and will define the success or failure of your entire garden. By choosing the right small greenhouse for your garden, you are assured of the best results for as long as you can use it.