13:51 - 10 December 2010
A greenhouse is a garden haven. It can be a focal point, a refuge or a place to immerse yourself in the practicalities of growing from seeds and cuttings. It’s a shelter against the elements, where you can extend the growing season at the beginning and end until it virtually joins in the middle.
In a greenhouse you can actually control the environment to suit your plants instead of growing the plants that suit your environment.
Under glass
With grow-your-own increasing in popularity, isn’t it time you considered extending the season at both ends with a greenhouse? You don’t need a massive garden because you can buy a small, but perfectly formed model from companies such as Growhouse which even makes a neat 6x6 version of its popular Growhouse. Alternatively invest in a patio greenhouse which is ideal for tiny gardens, terraces and apartments. It is very surprising how much money you can save by just growing a few easy crops from seed instead of buying the produce at the supermarket. Even if you just grow your own supply of salad each year you will save plenty of money and eat healthier too, but as soon as you start growing more expensive crops such as herbs, asparagus and more you will quickly repay the cost of your greenhouse or cold frame.
December is a brilliant time to buy a greenhouse, you can take advantage of seasonal offers, or simply put it on your Christmas wish list. Even if your partner or kids make a contribution or buy the staging you will be well on your way to being a greenhouse owner.
Considerations
The choice is almost endless, from the smallest 4x4 (greenhouse not car) right up to the bespoke creations that adorn the estates of country houses. Do your research first and work out your budget.
Think about how big you want it. If space allows then get the widest model you can and then choose an option that can be expanded in length if needed. Consider exactly where you want to put it. Generally freestanding glasshouses are best positioned with the ridge axis running from east to west. Keep them away from roads, trees and play areas. Accessibility is important for several reasons. You want to be able to nip out to the greenhouse whenever convenient, so keep it fairly near the house. If you intend to plumb water and power in then it is cheaper if the greenhouse is nearer the relevant supplies.
Buy a size bigger than you think you need or be prepared to buy another one! Space soon runs out when you’ve pricked out a few dozen pots of seedlings into thousands of individual pots and modules.
Wood or Metal
There are two main choices when it comes to materials, timber or aluminium.
Timber is often the preferred choice for country gardens; wood blends easily and naturally with a garden. Ideally choose a quality hardwood such as Western Red Cedar, which is a naturally oily wood and is inherently rot resistant. The timber weathers to a silver grey colour, so if you want to preserve its rich colour it will need treating from time to time. Soft wood greenhouses can demand a lot of work in terms of maintenance and wood preservation. Make sure they have been pressure treated before they are assembled. Timber greenhouses tend to have thicker frames and structures than aluminium, which reduces the light a little, they are also heavier by comparison, and are slightly better at retaining warmth in winter. A timber frame is also much easier to attach plant supports, staging and accessories to as you can screw into the wood in any position. Timber glasshouses are often supplied in ready glazed panels for easier assembly.
Modern aluminium greenhouses require little on going maintenance in terms of the frame. They tend to have larger panels of glass, which is better for light penetration.
Optional extras and fittings
Look at the extras, what’s included in the price and how much are the extras. Compare carefully as some suppliers may include things as standard that cheaper offers do not.
Whatever you choose you simply must have a level solid base to start with. Discuss the requirements with your supplier to ensure you get it right.
Consider the rainfall. Large sloping roofs are perfect for collecting plenty of fresh water. Does the glasshouse include gutters and rain collecting equipment?
Check that doors are wide enough for your needs; can you get a wheelbarrow in there? Do they slide or hinge? How well do they fit? Can they be locked? Is there a bar across the door that could get in the way?
Ventilation, ventilation, ventilation. If there’s one thing that is often poorly catered for its ventilation. Even in the depths of winter your plants need good airflow. One top vent is just not enough, even on a small house. Ideally you want to make sure that an area equivalent to about one fifth of the floor area is provided as ventilation. This can include top vents, louvre vents and opening windows. Extra low down ventilation is of great value ensuring a good airflow. . Top vents let the hot air out, drawing in fresh at the low vents. Don’t under estimate your needs and fit automatic vents to take the strain.
