How to make a greenhouse in your garden?

First, lets address the big question. What is a greenhouse and is it feasible in a small space? A greenhouse is a structure made with transparent materials like glass or plastic that allow sunlight to enter while retaining heat to create a controlled environment for growing plants. This controlled environment helps to optimize growing conditions for plants by regulating temperature, humidity, and light.

You might have observed large greenhouse as you drive past them on the roads but don’t be alarmed by the size. It can be of any size, even small enough to fit perfectly in your garden.

Let us take a look at the main elements that are needed to construct the greenhouse. The frame or structure is the first part. You can have it made with metal, wood or PVC. Wood is more eco friendly and easy to work with while metal is more durable.

Then comes the covering. This is very crucial. You can select from glass, greenhouse plastic or polycarbonate sheets. We highly recommend polycarbonate sheets since they are unbreakable like glass and more durable and easier to maintain compared to greenhouse plastic.

Finally, the foundation of the greenhouse. You can choose concrete which is very common or use treated wood or pavers.

We should not forget to add doors and ventilation to allow for air circulation. You can install roof vents, side vents, or louvered windows to allow for air circulation.

Now that you have an idea of the main elements you require to make a greenhouse, you can add some more items for the finishing touches such as shelves and benches to organise your plants. You can consider installing a drip irrigation system or having access to a nearby water source for easy watering. If you want to take it up a notch, you can also add a Thermometer and Hygrometer to monitor temperature and humidity levels to maintain optimal growing conditions.

Protection: The main advantage is that it protects your plants from pests, and diseases, providing a safer environment for delicate plants and seedlings. They also act as a barrier against extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and frost.

Temperature Control: Greenhouse trap heat from the sun, creating a warmer environment inside, which is ideal for plant growth, especially in colder climates.

Extended Growing Season:  You can control the environment, enabling year-round cultivation of vegetables, flowers, and other plants, regardless of external weather conditions.

Space Utilization: Greenhouse allows you to maximize space through the use by using vertical gardening techniques, allowing you to grow more plants in a smaller area. Even by adding benches or shelves or even hanging from the frame, you can make maximum utilization of the space.

Increased Productivity: By maintaining a controlled environment, plants can grow more efficiently, leading to increased productivity and better-quality produce.

Versatility: You can use the greenhouse not only to grow vegetables but also, to start seeds earlier, propagate plants, or grow a variety of other plants like flowers and herbs.

Initial Investment: You need to make an investment in terms of materials and labour upfront. The cost of your greenhouse will depend on the size, type and shape.

Maintenance: Greenhouses require regular maintenance to ensure they remain effective. This includes monitoring temperature and humidity, cleaning the structure, and managing pests and diseases that may still find their way inside.

Space Requirements: Greenhouse needs proper sun exposure. Hence you need ensure there is enough space in your garden where there is abundant sunlight. Proper placement is crucial for maximizing sunlight exposure and access.

Climate Control Systems: If required, you may install additional systems for heating, cooling, and ventilation to maintain optimal growing conditions year-round. These systems can add to the overall cost and maintenance requirements. However, you can look into this over a period of time.