Greenhouse for the Homeowner

Types

• Available in all sizes, greenhouses include window boxes featuring a few shelves to hold plants. Attached greenhouses, such as lean-to and even-span types, require one wall be attached to your house. The attached greenhouse works well if a door from the house leads directly to your greenhouse without requiring walking outside. You can also build a free-standing structure.

Location

• Plants growing in a greenhouse require good sun exposure, especially in the morning. Look for a location with exposure to the south or southeast. Watch for structures or trees that might block the light during the day.

Utilities

• You'll need a heating system to keep your greenhouse's temperature steady, a feat critical to helping your plants grow and thrive. Consider connecting into your home heating system to provide the required heat. For small greenhouses growing seedlings to transplant in the spring, you can use electric resistance heaters.