How to Start an Urban Greenhouse
Re-purpose an existing space to create an urban greenhouse. Typical city life is crowded and noisy. Create a calm eco-friendly oasis filled with herbs, food and other plants. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 15 percent of the world's food is grown in urban areas. Start an urban greenhouse to bring the country to the city. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a sunny location. Greenhouses need sunshine. Choose a location with southern exposure. Rooftops, empty or underdeveloped lots, balconies and patios are all potential greenhouse locations.
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Secure all required permits and permissions. Contact your city planning department to determine if the zoning and building codes allow greenhouses at your selected location. If necessary, get approval from your landlord or condo/co-op board before you start construction.
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Get a price quote and rendering from an experienced architect/contractor. Obtain the dimensions of a greenhouse that could be built on your selected location. Use the sketch and dimensions to determine how many plants you can place in the greenhouse.
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Supervise the construction of the greenhouse.
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Select plants that will thrive in the local climate and in the soil available. Factor in space constraints. Choose herbs, spices, food and flowers that are pleasing to you and other people who will assist with the greenhouse maintenance.
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Create a maintenance plan for the greenhouse. Invite neighbors, friends and family members to participate with upkeep.
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Stock the greenhouse. Arrange your selected plants.
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Invite the community to the greenhouse grand opening. Demonstrate how to care for the plants using gardening tools.
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Tips & Warnings
Research the cost and environmental impact of different types of temperature controls.
