The ultimate resource of any really serious gardener is a greenhouse. Hmmm to start those plant when the snow is still flying and be able to pot, water, and plant in February. How does it get better than that?
You can purchase a good greenhouse for between $1,000 to $2,000, however if you have half a mind to do so, it is possible to build one from scratch. The big challenge for most gardeners is not the cost, but the space. Before you make a greenhouse decision, make sure you assess and fully plan out your land availability.
In addition to your greenhouse, there are several other garden tools that you will need to have in order to get a greenhouse up and going. Air coolers for the hot summer are necessary to keep the temperature reasonable. Also power vents in the roof to release hot air that can build up suddenly are important for the summer. Of course the winter requires a good heater to warm the greenhouse. Other really good equipment to have include a humidifier, a CO2 generator, and a mister. I find it very helpful to haven internal watering system with timers and shutoff valves. You can get really fancy here if you want, but best to set a budget and then follow it.
There are several possible greenhouse material covers. Options include plastic sheeting, polycarbonate, and glass. Glass is the most expensive, but it also lasts the longest. Glass also allows the most outdoor light transmission. If there is too much light coming in, a sheltering material or fabric can always be added.
The floor of your greenhouse can be constructed of gravel, concrete, or of mulch. Mulch is the least expensive choice and actually adds humidity into the greenhouse. If you use mulch, you can actually plant vegetables and other plants directly into the ground. If you can’t tell, this is what I recommend. Growth beds can be created on joining sides of the center by simply loosening the soil and adding compost. If you line the planting area with wood that will not decay (such as cedar).
The great thing about a greenhouse is you can raise crops in cold weather that normally would not be possible.
One more tip. To maximize the space, use lower benches for starting seeds and transplants and upper benches for growing flowers and specimen plants. Some vegetables, like tomatoes, should be planted in a warm area of the greenhouse.
l also set aside one area of the greenhouse for production and preparation. Don’t do your general preparation on the growing floor. This tip will keep your greenhouse more efficient and less messy.
