A small portable greenhouse ready for installation.
A small greenhouse sounds appealing to many homeowners, especially as the price of fresh produce continues to rise. Yet to some homeowners it also sounds … complicated. A new method of growing doesn’t have to be difficult, though.
Larry Strobel of Simply Solar Greenhouses in Bell City, MO, shared tips and information on getting started with a greenhouse—as well as an inspiring success story from one of his customers.
Charlene’s Success with a Garden Greenhouse
In the weeks leading up to the arrival of her new greenhouse, Charlene raised seedlings in a light garden in her home. She then transplanted them to 4-inch pots and packed them into their new solar greenhouse.
Greenhouse shelving helped Charlene pack more plants into their temporary solar home.
Two weeks later the plants were thriving, in spite of the outdoor temperature that had dipped down to 16 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. Propagation mats and one small heater had kept the inside of her greenhouse above 42 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.
She transferred the plants to her outdoor garden, and filled each empty slot with new seedlings.
One month later, Charlene had sold or planted about 160 plants that she had nurtured in her greenhouse, and soon after she had another 150 plants that would be ready to go in 2-3 more weeks. She and her husband were both delighted with the results.
Easy Growing with Garden Greenhouses
A greenhouse provides a stable environment throughout the seasons, regardless of whether you live in a cold or desert-like climate. In cold climates, you run an inexpensive heater during the night to maintain suitable temperatures. In hot climates, you open the greenhouse windows and cover the floor with wet mulch to create a swamp cooler effect.
The exact assembly and plant growth requirements depend on the type of greenhouse you use, though. Some companies, such as Simply Solar Greenhouses, deliver portable greenhouses of different sizes and install them for you. Others provide the materials and assembly instructions.
Questions To Ask About Greenhouses
The initial purchase of a greenhouse can seem overwhelming due to the variety of options and list of questions you may have. Larry says that interested consumers should know about the following details when shopping for one.
- Cost: You will find a wide range of prices when shopping for a greenhouse. Although it’s tempting to go with the inexpensive, assembly-required models, consider the value and benefits of the higher-priced models before committing to a purchase.
- Warranty: Does the greenhouse come with a warranty or guarantee? Is it included in the initial purchase price?
- Longevity: How long will the greenhouse last?
- Installation: Does the company install it for you? Do you need a foundation for it? What must you do to help it withstand strong windstorms?
- Growing Information: What must you do to protect and nurture the plants in different types of weather? Will you need to purchase other materials or accessories? Does plant placement affect growth? What are the methods of growing within the greenhouse?
By asking the right questions, you too can be well on your way to healthier plants and yearlong access to homegrown produce—without much hassle.
Other Related Articles:
Add a Garden Conservatory to Your Home
The Orchid Greenhouse for all Seasons
