Why use a greenhouse?
Temperature significantly affects the growth rate of plants. Greenhouses are very useful because they provide an increased temperature around plants and protect them from weather extremes. Including
- Extends the growing season allowing you to sow plants earlier and harvest plants later.
- Allows crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, melons and aubergines to crop more successfully.
- Provides a protected environment to overwinter tender plants like pelargoniums, fuchsias and citrus trees.
- Improves the chances of propagation success when taking cuttings.
From a practical point of view a greenhouse can provide an outdoor classroom. This can be used to carry out gardening tasks, such as pricking out and potting on during wet weather. Science experiments e.g. investigating global warming and the greenhouse effect can also be staged.
What should you consider when choosing your greenhouse?
- Where will you put it? A sheltered, sunny spot is best. Will it be placed on the playground or will there be soil underneath? Will vandalism be a problem?
- Will you require heating and lighting? Some plants require frost-free conditions over winter to live e.g. pelargoniums.
- Access. Will the greenhouse be used by SEN children – is it wheelchair-friendly? Is there a clear route?
- How will you keep the crops watered outside term time and who will take care of the annual maintenance?
- Which glazing material (e.g. glass or polycarbonate) will you use? You will need to satisfy yourselves that it’s within your risk assessment and insurance.
- Budget. How much money do you have? Extra costs could include installation, additional benches and insurance.
- What do you want to grow? Veg, herbs, salad, tomatoes, flowers? How many do you want to grow? This will determine the size of greenhouse you require.
Read More : 3 Things You Must Consider Before Deciding to Build a Greenhouse
Greenhouse Growers 