Choose A Greenhouse Kit That Fits

This week I’ve been writing about backyard greenhouses for the home or hobby gardener.  It’s not uncommon to talk to people who have built their own, but greenhouse kits have certainly made it easier for those of us who aren’t  able to go the homemade route!  Having all the pieces cut with the correct measurements and the holes all drilled makes installation much easier!  But with all the different designs and styles available, it’s important that greenhouse kit you select is the right fit.

Obviously, the size of the greenhouse should depend on the space available in the lawn or garden.  That one is a no brainer.  However, that’s just the first option to consider.  Weather conditions in the area should also be considered.  If heavy snows are common during the winter, you probably want to stay away from a flat or straight roof design.  Even though gravity helps snow slide off curved or angled roof lines more easily, it’s a good idea to brush off heavy snow whenever possible.   Cleaning off the snow not only helps preserve the structure but also allows more sunlight to reach the plants!

Another decision is selecting a greenhouse design that matches or compliments the style of the home or fits the layout of the garden.  Yes, greenhouse kits are available that incorporate different architectural design elements like the following:

1. Gable greenhouses are often chosen to compliment more traditional or even colonial style architecture.  The gable roof design is a natural snow repellent and also provides more headroom down the center for tall gardeners or tall plants – providing a more spacious, open feeling.  This aesthetically pleasing design is usually acceptable to neighbors and zoned communities that may be involved.
2. Barn style greenhouses have a rustic appeal and are frequently chosen for a country setting.  The gambrel style roof is shaped similar to a barn with a wide roof line and shorter side walls.  Barn style greenhouses can be made out of aluminum frames or even wood. 
3. Gothic greenhouses have a very distinct and recognizable design style with a pointed top, curved walls and roof  line.  And the snow slides right off!  They are very strong against harsh weather and provide a great deal of usable space inside.  However, some people shy away from this style unless their home design or the neighborhood is somewhat complimentary in style.
4. Dome greenhouses look like they may have dropped from outer space!  They look like a half ball with the flat side on the ground.  Obviously, they have to be stand-alone structures but their many triangle-shaped components maximize the benefits of solar heating.
5. Hoop greenhouses are usually made with metal pipes or PVC which have been bent to make the upside-down U shape, and then covered with heavy plastic.  Greenhouse kits are available for this style, however, many homeowners venture to build these on their own – which may be a cost-effective decision in the beginning but they better plan on replacing the plastic every 3-4 years. 

Most of these designs can be built as stand-alone structures or attached to a home, garden or another building.  However, lean to greenhouses are always attached to something else (pictured above).  A lean to greenhouse is a great choice when space is limited.  The greenhouse kits are available in different sizes but by design they’re essentially half a structure.  Because of their proximity to another building, they’re usually more accessible and more convenient for connecting to water and power supplies.

Check out these greenhouse kits for a design that fits your needs (including FREE shipping!).  Whatever greenhouse kit  you choose for your garden or your gardening gift, it’s a good idea to select the largest one you can afford and have space to support.  Gardeners have no problem filling them up quickly – wishing for more space!

For more information about greenhouses, read “Greenhouses Solve The Blues“, “A Garden Green  House Gift Doesn’t Have To Be One Size Fits All,” and “Who Needs A Garden Green House?”

Greenhouse Kits get our green thumbs up!