DIY: How to Make a Greenhouse Yourself

July 21, 2023 Globalinfo247

Building a greenhouse can be a rewarding and beneficial project for gardeners of all levels. Greenhouses create a controlled environment that extends the growing season, protects plants from harsh weather conditions, and allows you to cultivate a wider variety of plants.

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to build your own greenhouse, discussing the benefits of having one, choosing the right type, considering your available space and climate conditions, and selecting the necessary materials and tools.

Benefits of Having a Greenhouse and Its Role in Gardening

A greenhouse offers several advantages for gardeners:

Extended Growing Season: With a greenhouse, you can grow plants all year round, even in colder climates. It provides a stable and warm environment that protects plants from frost and cold temperatures.
Controlled Environment: Greenhouses allow you to manage crucial factors like temperature, humidity, and light. This control aids in optimizing plant growth and health, leading to better yields.
Pest and Disease Control: The enclosed structure of a greenhouse acts as a barrier against pests and diseases, reducing the risk of infestations and infections.
Versatility: You can grow a wide variety of plants in a greenhouse, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, and exotic species that may not thrive in your region’s natural conditions.

Choosing the Right Type of Greenhouse for Your Needs

When selecting the type of greenhouse to build, consider your gardening goals, available space, and budget. Some common types include:

Attached Greenhouse: This type shares a wall with an existing structure, such as your house or a shed. It is a cost-effective option, and the shared wall helps with temperature regulation.
Freestanding Greenhouse: A standalone structure not attached to any building. It offers more design flexibility and can be placed anywhere on your property that receives adequate sunlight.
Hoop House (Polytunnel): Hoop houses consist of a series of arched hoops covered with greenhouse film. They are relatively easy and inexpensive to construct.

Considering the Available Space and Climate Conditions

Before building your greenhouse, assess your available space and the local climate conditions:

Space: Choose a location that receives ample sunlight throughout the day. Ensure there’s enough room for the greenhouse and space around it for easy access and maintenance.
Orientation: Position the greenhouse with the ridge running east-west to maximize sun exposure and minimize shading.
Wind Protection: Consider surrounding structures or windbreaks to shield the greenhouse from strong winds, as excessive wind can damage the structure and plants.

Selecting the Greenhouse Style

Once you’ve determined the type of greenhouse that suits your needs, consider additional design options:

Frame Materials: Common frame materials include wood, PVC, metal, or a combination of these. Wood offers a natural look but may require more maintenance. PVC is affordable and easy to work with, while metal provides strength and durability.
Greenhouse Covering: Choose from various covering materials such as polyethylene, polycarbonate, or shade cloth. Polyethylene is cost-effective, while polycarbonate provides better insulation and durability.
Fasteners: Use suitable fasteners like screws, nails, zip ties, or clips to secure the frame and greenhouse covering effectively.
Ventilation Options: Proper ventilation is crucial for temperature and humidity control. Consider adding windows, roof vents, and fans to ensure adequate airflow.

Shelving, Benches, and Other Greenhouse Accessories

To optimize your greenhouse space, you can include:

Shelving and Benches: These provide additional growing space and make it easier to organize and care for your plants.
Automatic Systems: Install automatic watering and temperature control systems to simplify greenhouse maintenance.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Building a DIY Greenhouse

Step 1: Preparing the Site and Foundation

Choose a suitable location for your greenhouse that receives ample sunlight throughout the day and is sheltered from strong winds. Clear the area of any debris, rocks, or weeds, and ensure the ground is level.

Construct the foundation using your preferred method, such as concrete footings, cinder blocks, or treated lumber, following the design and measurements of your greenhouse. Securely anchor the greenhouse frame to the foundation.

Step 2: Constructing the Greenhouse Frame

Gather the necessary materials and tools for the greenhouse frame construction, such as wood, PVC pipes, or metal tubing, along with screws, bolts, or connectors.

Follow your greenhouse plans or design to cut the frame components to the desired size and shape. Assemble the frame, ensuring it is level, square, and stable. Use appropriate fasteners to secure the joints.

Step 3: Attaching the Greenhouse Covering

Select the appropriate covering material for your climate and budget, such as polyethylene, polycarbonate panels, or shade cloth.

Drape the covering over the greenhouse frame, starting from one end and working your way to the other. Ensure it is tight and free of wrinkles. Secure the covering to the frame using clips, nails, or other fasteners.

Seal any gaps between the covering and the frame using weatherproof tape or sealant to prevent drafts and maintain a stable environment.

Step 4: Installing Ventilation Systems

Plan the placement of ventilation systems to ensure proper airflow and temperature control inside the greenhouse.

Install windows, roof vents, and exhaust fans as needed. For natural ventilation, place windows and vents on opposite ends to facilitate cross-ventilation.

Consider using automatic vent openers to regulate temperature and humidity without manual intervention.

Step 5: Adding Shelving and Benches

Build or purchase shelves and benches that fit well within your greenhouse space. Use materials resistant to moisture and decay, such as pressure-treated wood or metal.

Position the shelves and benches to optimize space and access to sunlight for your plants. Ensure they are securely attached to the greenhouse frame or foundation.

Step 6: Creating a Watering and Irrigation System

Set up a water source and connect it to your greenhouse, either through a hose or a rainwater collection system.

Install a drip irrigation system using hoses or emitters to provide a controlled and efficient watering method for your plants.

Consider using an automatic timer to regulate the irrigation system, ensuring consistent watering schedules.

Step 7: Insulating the Greenhouse for Colder Climates (if necessary)

For colder climates, insulate the greenhouse using materials like bubble wrap, double-walled polycarbonate, or foam board insulation.

Apply the insulation on the inside of the greenhouse covering to retain heat and maintain a stable temperature.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can build your own DIY greenhouse, providing an ideal environment for your plants and extending your gardening opportunities throughout the year.