Checklist for a Green House

For avid gardeners living where climate restricts output, a greenhouse might solve the problem of low temperatures. The question arises: what kind of greenhouse should a person build or purchase? This depends on the answer to several other queries which form a checklist. Consult your list then decide from there.

Greenhouse Purpose

The greenhouse's purpose is the first step in helping the the gardener to decide which sort to establish. For example, a few herbs or a tomato plant may require only a window box greenhouse. A large, lean-to construction or stand-alone structure provides the space for a wider variety of plants, perhaps producing enough to run a market stall. In between these two options, search for a portable greenhouse that fits on your patio for use only in years when you make gardening a priority, or to move with you as your residence changes.


If money's not a concern, a gardener can choose from a long list of potential extras. These include a solar panel, heating, humidity controllers, installed automatic sprinklers and artificial lighting. The prohibitive costs of such accessories may cause the financially limited individual to think twice about her priorities. Plumbing leads to especially high bills so you may opt to water by hand instead. Anything requiring electricity can also thicken the bill considerably, but if you need it, ensure your greenhouse location makes access easy. Some plants simply must maintain a particular temperature, humidity and light. Do not assume that heat alone will suffice: a greenhouse can become excessively hot.


Then again, for some, a garden creates a paradise on earth worth every expense, including the costs of galvanized steel framing and tempered-glass panels. These provide just a couple of choices. Consider options such as wood, aluminum and plastic frames. Think about fiberglass or plastic film in place of glass. The choice depends partly on how different the existing climate is from your needs, plus vandalism or theft risks. Also, where a greenhouse stands helps a gardener to decide: an exposed site, chosen to make best use of sunshine, will also be at greatest risk of high winds and debris which could undermine the effectiveness of plastic film covering.

Other Costs

There is no use planning out the budget for a greenhouse if nothing remains for the purchase of plants, pots and shelving. Should you lack potting tools, soil and other basic gardening necessities, your greenhouse could sit for a full year, empty and pointless, before the following spring frees up the funds to fulfill your dream. Also, ensure that whatever you build or set up meets regulations in your city. Some require a building permit before construction can begin.

Keywords: greenhouse project, construction materials, lighting and heating

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Article provided by eHow Home & Garden | Checklist for a Green House