Dave's Wood Working Site

Green House Kits: Simple steps to help you plan your greenhouse.

Green house kits are are a great way for someone with little or no construction experience to successfully build a greenhouse. With so many different models and designs of greenhouses and cold frames available it is sometimes difficult to determine which kit is going to be right for your needs

FIrst of all determine what you hope to achieve with you greenhouse. This will help you choose the right size and options for your needs. After all certain plants and gardening needs require a specific set of options. How much of what you normally grow requires a greenhouse?

The size and configuration of your yard will limit you to the size and type of greenhouse kit you can use. More then likely you will place it in your existing garden but there are a few things to consider before making that decision.

• Does the location allow easy access to water and hydro (if needed)?
• In the case of a permanent structure, does it meet property set-back requirements?
• Is your garden in a location where a greenhouse would obstruct the view?
• Does it compromise the way your current garden works?

It is a more important decision for a fixed greenhouse but either way you should choose a spot that is ideal not one that is convenient.

Most if not all greenhouses need to be vented to prevent overheating the plant. Some green house kits will come with an automatic opener that is set on a thermostat, when it get too hot inside the vents open. Others will require that you automatically open the vents.

Choose a greenhouse kit accordingly. Forgetting to open the vents on a hot day will kill all your hard work. It can only take once.

Depending on where you live and the size of your greenhouse, you may be required by your municipality to have a building permit before you start. Do your homework before buying your green house kit.

Things to consider before getting your greenhouse kit.

• Seasons of use: Do you require a greenhouse that can operate through the winter?
• Heating and cooling: How do you intend to heat your greenhouse if you do plan to use it throughout the year?
• Services required: If you are planning for lights or fans you will need services at your greenhouse. Does you greenhouse have automatic vents?
• Your budget.
• Type of gardening needs: tall plants vs. ground huggers or full greenhouse vs. coldframe.

Finding the right greenhouse is 90% planning. Once you determine your gardening needs or yard restrictions you can narrow your search and find exactly what you need.