subject: A Greenhouse For Beginners - A Cheap and Easy Method [print this page] If you're thing about making a personal greenhouse for your own garden but just don't have any experience with how to plan one out or build it, not to fear, this article is going to point out some of the most important points to consider in the process. Think of it as a greenhouse for beginners 101 guide. Below I've listed some of the more common questions and considerations that most folks ask me about when starting a garden greenhouse project.
.1. What should be the size of my greenhouse?
Generally speaking, the size of your greenhouse will automatically be limited by the space available to construct it upon. That seems obvious I know but, you'd be surprised at how many people miss this first step. You should have sufficient space to accommodate all the plants you want grow and then some! There should enough space for walkways and benches with some flexibility for scaling up the operation in the future if so desired, and trust me, you'll fill out that initial space in no time flat!
One important tip to utilize in the beginning is to incorporate hanging rods in in the house wherever possible to accommodate hanging baskets. Also, ensure that structural capabilities are set up to handle the installation of growing lamps and side wall shelves. Again, it's really key to choose a structure that allows you the flexibility to add-on to the original structure if you are a serious grower and feel that you would need more growing room later.
2. How much time will you be able to spare for your greenhouse?
A greenhouse for beginners, even a small hobby house, requires that you spend time in it on a regular basis. Of course, there is some flexibility in this, but you do need to make room in your schedule to putter around in your greenhouse frequently. When you set out to build your greenhouse, be honest and realistic with yourself about how much time you're going to be able to dedicate to this new gardening venture. Making plans that are to grandiose will end up costing you heavily down the road.
3. Are there any local laws or guidelines that you need to be aware of before you begin construction?
Generally, the area of the country you live in will have it's own set of laws and guidelines relating to building a structure like this. You may need to obtain permits and show compliance with construction guidelines, especially if your greenhouse is to be classifies as a permanent structure. It would be a good idea to confirm whether construction of a greenhouse on your property would make you liable to pay additional taxes.
For the most part, small greenhouses won't be on the hook for this, but it's always wise to make sure just in case. All you have to do is approach the local authorities in your area that are responsible and find out what clearances you'll need before you start any kind of construction.
4. What additional things should you consider apart from the construction costs while planning the budget?
You need to plan for other things as well like the cost of heating, irrigation, and ventilation costs. If you reside in a particularly cold winter region, you need to consider the costs associated with electrical or propane heating. Will you be able to afford it, or will you need to cut down the size of your house so these heating costs don't become prohibitive?
Your choice of covering material needs to be considered as it relates to monetary investment and suitability. It's also important to think about how much it will cost to irrigate the greenhouse. How far the structure is from the home will dictate this because the further away it is the more involved it will be to set up the proper watering system.
A Greenhouse For Beginners - A Cheap and Easy Method
