How to Begin a Greenhouse

Before embarking on the greenhouse adventure there are some questions to ask, and decisions to make, beginning with how the greenhouse will be used.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a location to build your greenhouse. The ideal location is one that is never shaded during the daytime. A good location could have some shade in the morning or afternoon. A poor location would be in the shade all day. Consider the shade during both the winter and summer months.

2. Ask yourself how large of a greenhouse you need and what you can afford. Building a greenhouse a little larger than what you initially anticipate will allow you to grow, rather than expanding later. The maximum size of the greenhouse will be determined by your location and local building codes.

3. Explore the different greenhouse construction possibilities. Prefab greenhouses are available and some gardeners prefer to build their own or hire a contractor. Local building codes will determine the restrictions and building permit requirements.

4. Compare the different greenhouse types. The A-frame does well in regions with heavy snow fall and are easy to build, yet have limited headroom. The Gothic arch involves layout and lamination of arches and is a challenging project for the novice craftsman. The free standing greenhouse is a common greenhouse type, similar to building a detached shed. The attached greenhouse is typically attached to the residence or other building.

5. Consider drainage of the greenhouse site. Do not create depressions that catch rain water or form boggy areas that create unstable ground. The ground should be level, and have good drainage. Waterlines to the greenhouse should be run underground to prevent freezing.

6. Build the foundation. This can consist of footings around the perimeter of the greenhouse. There are various floor options. A concrete floor with drainage is an expensive option. Three to four inches of gravel can be used instead of concrete, or bricks can be laid (using loose sand as grout) as the floor. Bricks will aid in evening heating, as they will absorb the daytime heat, and then release it during the evening.

7. Frame the greenhouse. If you are building the greenhouse and not using a prefab kit, you will need to decide on the paneling type. Electricity can be run to the greenhouse or solar energy can be used to light the building. A fan along the eves can be used to ventilate the greenhouse.