Growing your own plants and vegetables is a fulfilling hobby. Still, it can be challenging to maintain a thriving garden when the weather is unpredictable or you're experiencing a pest or disease problem.
A backyard greenhouse is an excellent investment for beginner gardeners. It provides a controlled environment for plants to thrive, protects them from pests and diseases, and allows experimentation with different growing techniques. Overall, it's a fun and rewarding way to jump-start a gardening journey.
So if you're a beginner gardener who wants to buy a backyard greenhouse to grow exotic indoor plants or grow your own food, this guide will cover everything you need to consider before choosing the perfect greenhouse for your backyard.
Determine Your Gardening Goals
Before you start looking for a greenhouse, it's important to determine your gardening goals. What do you want to grow, and how much space will you need? Are you planning to grow plants year-round or just during one season? Answering these questions will help you choose a greenhouse that meets your needs.
Consider Your Yard Size
The size of your yard will play a significant role in determining the type and size of the greenhouse you can install. You'll need to measure your yard or balcony and determine how much space you have available for a greenhouse. Remember that you'll also need some space around the greenhouse to maintain and allow for adequate ventilation.
Set Your Budget
The cost of greenhouses can vary greatly, with prices ranging from less than a hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Setting a budget beforehand can help you narrow your choices and avoid overspending. Remember that you'll also need to factor in the installation cost (if required), the type of greenhouse, and additional items such as a ventilation system, heating, and lighting you may need as you advance.
Choose The Size Of Your Ideal Greenhouse
Once you've determined your gardening goals, yard size, and budget, you can look at greenhouse sizes. The size of your greenhouse will depend on the amount of space you have available, as well as your gardening goals. If you're starting out with gardening, a smaller greenhouse may be a better choice. However, if you're planning to grow a large number of plants or want to grow plants year-round, you'll need a larger greenhouse. A few factors to consider are if you would like in-built shelves in your greenhouse as you would get with some portable greenhouses, or if you are planning on growing tall plants, is the greenhouse tall enough for your needs?
Choose The Right Material
Greenhouses can be made from various materials, including glass, polycarbonate, PE mesh, or PVC. Glass is commonly used as it offers superior insulation and allows ample sunlight to pass through. Despite its benefits, it is also fragile and can be costly. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is a lightweight and durable plastic that is easy to install and maintain. Other options are PE mesh or PVC, which are more budget-friendly and easy to assemble. Although they may not be as sturdy as other materials, they are an excellent choice for smaller spaces or those who want something portable or are just starting out.
Choosing The Type Of Greenhouse That Best Suits You
Three main types of backyard greenhouses are lean-to, mini, and walk-in.
Lean-to Greenhouses: These are attached to a wall or building and are a good option if you have limited space. They're also generally more affordable than freestanding greenhouses.
Mini Greenhouses: These are smaller, portable greenhouses that can be moved around your backyard. They're a good option if you have limited space or are just starting with gardening.
Walk-In Greenhouses: These are larger, freestanding structures that also can be moved and provide plenty of space for your plants. They're a good choice if you plan to grow many plants or want to grow them year-round.
Additional Features To Consider
There are several additional features you may want to consider when choosing a greenhouse, including:
Ventilation: Good ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy greenhouse environment. Look for a greenhouse with vents and windows that allow airflow.
Heating: If you live in a cold climate, you must provide heating for your greenhouse. Look for a greenhouse that has built-in heating or that can accommodate a portable heater.
Shelving: You'll need space to store your plants and gardening supplies. So, look for a greenhouse with built-in shelving or accommodating freestanding shelving units.
A backyard greenhouse can provide a controlled environment where plants can thrive year-round. With patience and thoughtful planning, you can enjoy the rewards of growing your plants and vegetables in your backyard greenhouse. By choosing a suitable greenhouse for your needs, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that you can enjoy for years to come.
Happy gardening!