When should you buy a greenhouse?
Autumn is the ideal time to set up a greenhouse. You can concentrate on building in peace and quiet, and the greenhouse is ready for spring planting. The soil will have settled by autumn, making it easier to lay the foundations.
How to place the greenhouse?
Choose a warm and wind-protected location for the greenhouse. The morning sun will warm the greenhouse early and the evening sun will collect heat for the night. Place the greenhouse in a bright spot, but shade it if necessary to prevent excessive sun glare. Place the greenhouse close to the kitchen for regular use.
What kind of greenhouse is suitable for a windy location?
In windy areas, a glasshouse is the best choice as it is more resistant to wind stress. The greenhouse should be well anchored to the substrate and ensure that covers, doors and hatches are intact and closed.
What size greenhouse should I buy?
Choose a greenhouse that is at least 2.5 metres wide, as the wider the greenhouse, the larger the volume. Smaller models are suitable for growing, but larger ones can also be used for living. The size of the room depends on the plants you are growing, the growing medium and the space you need.
Should I choose glass or honeycomb as the material for my greenhouse?
Glass roofing is stylish and long-lasting, but honeycomb is more resistant to snow loads and insulates heat, which prolongs the growing season. A combination of glass walls and honeycomb roof is a popular choice.
Which type of greenhouse will last the longest?
An aluminium frame and tempered glass make a greenhouse virtually maintenance-free and very long-lasting. Painted aluminium frames are durable and easy to keep clean.
Are all greenhouse models threatened by snow?
All greenhouses need to be protected from snow loads, especially lightweight ones. Snow accumulation can cause damage, so the roof should be cleaned regularly. The frame of the greenhouse can be supported during the winter and a slipcover can be placed on the roof to facilitate snow run-off.
Can you put up a greenhouse yourself?
You can assemble the greenhouse yourself using the instructions provided. It's worth setting aside a whole weekend for the job. Start with the foundations and drain the ground if necessary. A metal or brick foundation is ideal.
What are the most common pitfalls in setting up a greenhouse?
A carelessly constructed foundation can cause the greenhouse to tilt and break glass. In particular, frost can damage the structure, so the foundation work must be done carefully.
Does automation help?
Automation makes it easier to operate the greenhouse. Automatic ventilation hatch openers, irrigation systems and lighting extend the growing season and reduce the workload.
What should be grown in the greenhouse?
Tomatoes and cucumbers are the most popular crops. Lettuces, herbs and heat-demanding crops such as chillies and peppers also do well. Pre-growing summer flowers is also a good idea.
How do you maintain a greenhouse?
The greenhouse should be kept clean and the growing medium should be changed regularly. The greenhouse is washed in spring and autumn, when the vents and windows are also checked. Make sure you grease the doors and hinges every year.
Will the greenhouse survive the winter?
The greenhouse should be well protected for the winter. Close the vents and doors tightly and remove snow loads from the roof. A well-made foundation will ensure that the greenhouse remains intact over the winter.