Greenhouse Basics

To fully function as a greenhouse, the structure must provide consistent and adequate heat, ventilation, moisture and shade for plants to grow throughout all seasons of the year, including winter. Greenhouse designs vary from the most basic do-it-yourself projects featuring basic materials, to kits that can be purchased in many different price brackets.

Hoop Style Greenhouses
If you want to construct a hoop style greenhouse, you will need the following materials: treated or rot-resistant wood; rebar; PVC pipe; 6mm plastic; staples or wood lathe; nails; door handle and hinges. For the simplest design, use barrels of water to keep the temperature a few degrees warmer than outside. If winters are particularly harsh, you may need to use additional heating, such as passive solar power or another eco-friendly heater. Other traditional heating methods are also possible--you can inquire locally about this.

Wooden Houses—the traditional wooden house with glass can be purchased in a kit. Make sure to keep an eye on the condition of the wood, since it will need to be maintained.

Metal Frame Greenhouses—aluminum or galvanized steel are used for the frame. Aluminum is compatible with either glass, plastic (polyethylane) or polycarbonate panels. Galvanized steel is very sturdy, but you need to make sure it has been treated before drilling (or else rust-proofed with paint) to avoid rust.

Before purchasing a kit or purchasing your materials, it is important that you take exact measurements for where you plan on placing the greenhouse. This is very important if you plan on having it abut the edge of the house or another large structure.

When planning your design and selecting materials, keep in mind the winter conditions in your area (snowfall, average temperatures, extreme winter temperatures, and so on) so that you can factor in the cost for heating and upkeep. Greenhouses that function throughout a long and challenging winter season may end up costing a great deal to heat. Just make sure to keep this in mind so that a weekend project does not end up becoming an expense and a frustration. If winters are milder in your area, you may very well be okay with a hoop style structure or a wooden frame, with a few barrels of water or a solar heater providing for your heating needs. Take a moment to consider the kinds of things you will be growing, and whether your goal is to have plants grow or else fully mature and be harvested within the greenhouse.

A ventilation system and an adequate irrigation system are also crucial. Spending the time planning (and putting in the initial investment) for good ventilation and watering systems will save lots of hassle and potential problems in the long run.