How To Choose the Ideal Site for a Greenhouse
Before construction begins on your greenhouse, you must plan out where you would have the most success with it. Placement is key, so plan this out very carefully so you don't face problems in the long run which you might not have faced otherwise.Choosing the Proper Spot for Your Greenhouse
When deciding where to position your greenhouse, the following factors must be given consideration: sunlight, drainage, land slopes, and visual aspects of the landscape.
Obviously, a plot that is fairly level, with good sun exposure, is best. Is there large vegetation around that may affect drainage? What about tree roots? Those you must be careful of too - they could push up into your greenhouse's foundation and destroy it. Make sure nearby trees are not going to block sunlight as well.
Positioning Your Greenhouse for Success
You'll want to ensure that your greenhouse receives plenty of unrestricted sunshine. This requires choosing a site that is free from the obstruction of other structures, trees, large shrubs, and hills.
Live in the North where it is colder? Go southern on your property for your greenhouse. This will give you maximum sunlight, even in the winter months. Live in the South? You may want to position your structure where there is partial shade so that plants that thrive in that type of light can benefit.
If you are building a greenhouse as part of an existing structure, you may be severely limited in placement options. In this case, drainage and exposure to sunlight are the most important factors. You don't want to position your greenhouse addition in a way that causes water to drain into your home's foundation. Nor do you want to position your greenhouse so that it only gets limited sunlight or is blocked by large trees or your home itself.
Where are your utilities? You need electrical outlets, and water hookups. Will they be readily available where you are putting your greenhouse?
Greenhouse gardening can be a joy for years to come, and an investment that will likewise pay off for many, many years. Do it right from the start by following these simple tips, and enjoy your new hobby!