The introduction of a greenhouse into your garden offers the possibility of year-round gardening for the enthusiast. However, purchasing a greenhouse for the first time is not as straightforward as it may seem. For instance, if you purchase one that does not meet your needs, it may well be impossible to achieve the sort of gardening you are looking for. Therefore, it is always recommended you put some serious thought into what it actually is you want before committing to buying anything. The ten tips below will help guide you towards purchasing a greenhouse that will suit both your garden, as well as your gardening needs.
You will need to choose a location in your garden for your greenhouse before you buy it. This is because there are several different types of greenhouse including, freestanding, portable and lean-to varieties. Measuring the desired location is an absolute must to ensure the type of greenhouse you buy fits nicely into your garden. Take the measurement of your yard with you and the sales assistant will be able to advise you further.
Not all greenhouses come with flooring, so if this is something you want you will need to plan for it before purchasing anything. You will have an assortment of potential flooring to choose from and you are best off going for one that is relatively low-maintenance. Having a decent floor in your greenhouse will enable you to keep planters off the damp earth.
Be realistic about what you can afford to spend on your greenhouse and set yourself a budget. Choose wisely and get as much information as you can before parting with your money. Some of the more expensive, and elaborate, greenhouses look nice but they are not always as functional as cheaper alternatives.
Consider what materials you want to make up your greenhouse. While Perspex is available, glass is a much more popular option however; you may find choosing the framework a harder decision. Wood, such as teak, when painted looks attractive but it can be expensive and it also has a limited lifespan in comparison to other materials. Aluminum is the most cost-effective material and, although the steel screws may show signs of wear over time, an aluminum frame will not rust.
Most gardeners buy heaters for their greenhouse, as not only will the warmth protect the plants from cold winters, certain plants require consistent warmth to grow properly.
If you are going to purchase heating for your greenhouse, it makes sense for you to ensure it is also properly insulated. Not only will this prevent precious heat from escaping, it will also ensure a more comfortable environment for your plants to grow.
A suitable ventilation system is important for any greenhouse. This usually consists of ridge and side ventilators, although a good-sized door will not only ventilate the greenhouse, it will also make maintenance easier. A greenhouse that does not have adequate ventilation will be at risk of developing a mold and mildew problem, which is bad news for plants as it can be poisonous.
Housekeeping should also be a consideration when you are searching for a suitable greenhouse. Finding one that is easy to clean, will reduce the risks of pests finding refuge in your greenhouse and feeding on your plants. Keeping the glass clean will also allow sunlight to get through properly.
It is also essential that your greenhouse is sturdy. If you live in a place that suffers from storms or high winds, you will need to choose a tough greenhouse that will still be standing after gale force winds. This also means making sure it is erected on flat land, this will stop it from leaning or swaying in inclement weather.
The last thing, and one of the most important considerations, is you will need to think about whether you want a D.I.Y kit greenhouse you can put up yourself or whether you will require someone to erect it for you. If you have even the slightest doubts about putting the greenhouse up yourself, the cost of professional installation should be added to your greenhouse budget.
Marion Catubig is the owner of Greenhouse Hut, a company that sells hobby greenhouses and other gardening supplies.
Article provided by Marion Catubiq
You will need to choose a location in your garden for your greenhouse before you buy it. This is because there are several different types of greenhouse including, freestanding, portable and lean-to varieties. Measuring the desired location is an absolute must to ensure the type of greenhouse you buy fits nicely into your garden. Take the measurement of your yard with you and the sales assistant will be able to advise you further.
Not all greenhouses come with flooring, so if this is something you want you will need to plan for it before purchasing anything. You will have an assortment of potential flooring to choose from and you are best off going for one that is relatively low-maintenance. Having a decent floor in your greenhouse will enable you to keep planters off the damp earth.
Be realistic about what you can afford to spend on your greenhouse and set yourself a budget. Choose wisely and get as much information as you can before parting with your money. Some of the more expensive, and elaborate, greenhouses look nice but they are not always as functional as cheaper alternatives.
Consider what materials you want to make up your greenhouse. While Perspex is available, glass is a much more popular option however; you may find choosing the framework a harder decision. Wood, such as teak, when painted looks attractive but it can be expensive and it also has a limited lifespan in comparison to other materials. Aluminum is the most cost-effective material and, although the steel screws may show signs of wear over time, an aluminum frame will not rust.
Most gardeners buy heaters for their greenhouse, as not only will the warmth protect the plants from cold winters, certain plants require consistent warmth to grow properly.
If you are going to purchase heating for your greenhouse, it makes sense for you to ensure it is also properly insulated. Not only will this prevent precious heat from escaping, it will also ensure a more comfortable environment for your plants to grow.
A suitable ventilation system is important for any greenhouse. This usually consists of ridge and side ventilators, although a good-sized door will not only ventilate the greenhouse, it will also make maintenance easier. A greenhouse that does not have adequate ventilation will be at risk of developing a mold and mildew problem, which is bad news for plants as it can be poisonous.
Housekeeping should also be a consideration when you are searching for a suitable greenhouse. Finding one that is easy to clean, will reduce the risks of pests finding refuge in your greenhouse and feeding on your plants. Keeping the glass clean will also allow sunlight to get through properly.
It is also essential that your greenhouse is sturdy. If you live in a place that suffers from storms or high winds, you will need to choose a tough greenhouse that will still be standing after gale force winds. This also means making sure it is erected on flat land, this will stop it from leaning or swaying in inclement weather.
The last thing, and one of the most important considerations, is you will need to think about whether you want a D.I.Y kit greenhouse you can put up yourself or whether you will require someone to erect it for you. If you have even the slightest doubts about putting the greenhouse up yourself, the cost of professional installation should be added to your greenhouse budget.
Marion Catubig is the owner of Greenhouse Hut, a company that sells hobby greenhouses and other gardening supplies.
Article provided by Marion Catubiq