United Country Real Estate

STARTING A GREENHOUSE by SJ Munoz

Growing plants and produce offers countless benefits. Whether your purpose is to grow year- round, extend your gardening season or grow plants that aren’t native to your area, a greenhouse is a great starting point. Keep in

mind a greenhouse is a long-term investment that requires careful consideration.

and headroom will be required. This information is important in terms

Your gardening specifics dictate

of selecting the type of

where to begin your greenhouse project. Know how much square footage, light

greenhouse, nursery pots, seed supplies, grow lights, plant supports and so on.

• Glazing (how you will cover your greenhouse) is an important decision with several options available. Glass, plastic sheeting and polycarbonate are among the popular glazing materials. While price may be a factor, this choice shouldn’t be taken lightly as glazing is directly responsible for keeping sunlight and warmth in while keeping the elements out. • The ability to customize your greenhouse is endless and includes shelving, mist systems, heating, fans, tool racks, potting benches and much more.

• Attached or lean-to greenhouses are often less expensive and good for growing herbs, seedlings and vegetables where space is limited. However, sunlight is restricted to just three sides. • Freestanding greenhouses tend to be more expensive, but allow for freedom of placement anywhere on your property. In addition, they offer a lower cost per plant while allowing you to extend the growing season. A freestanding greenhouse can also provide a sanctuary away from your main home.

properties including hobby farms, sustainable land, off-grid properties and country homes to name just a few. Contact one of our more than 400 offices worldwide to learn more about greenhouses and how they can benefit your property.

the winter. Almost any surface is acceptable for a greenhouse as long as there is adequate drainage. A greenhouse doesn’t need to be an overwhelming undertaking. United Country Real Estate features experts of all kinds of lifestyle

sunlight) to the sun is ideal. An east-west orientation will provide full southern exposure to the largest side of your greenhouse. Grow lights are also a possibility for added light. Trees can provide summer shade, but avoid coniferous trees or objects that will create shadows during

Site selection also matters. Proximity to your home may increase the amount of time you spend working in your greenhouse. Access to electricity and water will likely be necessary. A level area with maximum exposure (at least six hours of direct

SOURCE: https://www.planetnatural.com/greenhouse-kits/

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