So you want a greenhouse. A simple enough decision, or so it would seem, but in actuality there are many factors to consider, not the least is where to put your greenhouse. Correct greenhouse placement is likely your most important consideration. So where’s the best spot for a greenhouse? Read on to find out how to site a greenhouse.
Where to Put Your Greenhouse
Before you decide where to put your greenhouse, consider what exactly you plan to grow in the greenhouse and what type of greenhouse do you plan to erect. If you are a home grower that plans to grow for your own amusem*nt and use, the greenhouse will generally be on a smaller scale, but if you wish to start a business, it will have to be much larger. So while the size of the structure dictates the greenhouse locations, so too does the type of plants you wish to grow. Sun exposure is usually of paramount importance, but depending upon the plant, afternoon shade may also be a factor in greenhouse placement. The site for the greenhouse determines not only what type of structure will work best but also the direction and intensity of sun it will get. This determines what types of plants you can grow. Consider protection of the greenhouse from storm damage or from neighborhood hoodlums that like to hear glass break! Also, think about the ease of maintenance for not only plants but of the structure itself.
Additional Considerations for Greenhouse Placement
Do you need access to a water or electrical source? Remember to consider these factors when situating the greenhouse. Depending upon sun exposure, the greenhouse may need additional heating in the form of electric or even gas. Some greenhouses can be placed against the door, window, or basem*nt of the house, which will allow you to use heat from the home. This will also increase your home heating bill, but it might be less costly than if you heat the greenhouse separately. Generally, the best spot for a greenhouse is on the south or southeast side of the house in a sunny area that gets the most sun from fall through winter (November to February in most places). If this option doesn’t exist, the next best location for the greenhouse is the east side. The third best option for a greenhouse is the southwest or west side. The north side is the last resort and the least optimal site for a greenhouse. Try to situate the greenhouse lengthwise from north to south rather than east to west. This position provides the structure with more light and less shade. While unobstructed sunlight is important, afternoon shade may be as important depending upon the types of plants grown and the time of year they are grown. For instance, it might be advantageous to situate the greenhouse near deciduous trees which will shade the structure from hot summer sun but in the winter will benefit from added sunlight once the leaves have fallen. Of course, situating the greenhouse near trees or bushes may result in leaves, sap, and sticky honeydew littering the exterior of the structure, so that should be a consideration as well. Lastly, avoid building the structure at the base of a slope where cold air collects and is prone to frost. Be sure the area is level and the ground well-draining.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our most popular eBook "How to Grow Delicious Tomatoes."
FAQs
Try to situate the greenhouse lengthwise from north to south rather than east to west. This position provides the structure with more light and less shade. While unobstructed sunlight is important, afternoon shade may be as important depending upon the types of plants grown and the time of year they are grown.
Where are greenhouses usually located? ›
The ideal location would be south or southeast of any existing structures. If that is not an option, the next best location would be east of existing structures to capture the most winter light. It is best to avoid building around trees that will block out too much sunlight.
Where should I put my indoor greenhouse? ›
Keep in mind how much space you have to work with as well. A corner of your basem*nt, garage or a spare room is about all you need to create an indoor gardening oasis and there are a number of ways to craft one.
Where not to put a greenhouse? ›
Don't put your greenhouse directly under trees. They'll cast shade, which encourages green algae to build up, blocking even more light, while falling branches and leaves can cause damage and block guttering. Honeydew from insects on the foliage of trees can make the glass or plastic sticky and dirty.
Is morning sun enough for a greenhouse? ›
The general rule of thumb for greenhouses is that East or West is best, giving combination of sunshine and shade allowing most plants to thrive. East-facing gardens will experience sunlight during the mornings and then shade in the afternoon/evening.
Can a greenhouse get too much sun? ›
Greenhouses, whether of glass or plastic, can overheat in sunny weather. Plants can be protected from excess heat by shading and ventilation.
Is it OK to put a greenhouse in the shade? ›
Direct sunlight can cause internal temperatures to soar to potentially harmful levels. Enter shaded structures, which prevent excessive heat buildup inside a greenhouse. The intensity of sunlight can be reduced with the help of shade cloths, lattices, or trees.
What side of the house is best for a greenhouse? ›
Mostly south-facing is the goal, but in cases where that is not possible, a southwest or southeast facing greenhouse is doable. Southeast is preferable to southwest because it will get the morning sun, which helps heat up the greenhouse after it's cooled down overnight.
What is the least desirable location for a greenhouse? ›
The north side is the last resort and the least optimal site for a greenhouse. Try to situate the greenhouse lengthwise from north to south rather than east to west. This position provides the structure with more light and less shade.
What not to put in a greenhouse? ›
What not to grow in a greenhouse
- Giant Trees and Shrubs: ...
- Invasive Species: ...
- Aggressive Vines: ...
- Water-Hungry Crops in Excess: ...
- Plants with Extreme Temperature Requirements: ...
- Highly Sensitive Varieties: ...
- Crops with Pests and Diseases: ...
- Plants with Excessive Maintenance Needs:
Climate and Location
| Climate | Recommended Flooring |
|---|
| Hot climates | Concrete, vinyl planking |
| Temperate climates | Gravel, pavers, vinyl planking |
| Cold climates | Brick, vinyl planking |
| Wet/humid climates | Gravel, vinyl planking |
1 more rowDec 15, 2023
Where to site a greenhouse. Ideally, greenhouses should be sited where they can receive uninterrupted sun throughout the day. Provide screening or shelter from cold northerly or easterly winds, which can keep temperatures low in spring and slow the growth of seedlings and young plants.
Should my greenhouse be in full sun? ›
The best spot to place a greenhouse is the sunniest spot. It's important that the structure (and therefore the plants within it) receive at least six hours of winter sun exposure.
What direction should I place my greenhouse? ›
To maximize light and plant growth inside your greenhouse, the most optimal orientation of the greenhouse is for one of its longest walls facing south, or within 20 degrees of south. In this orientation, the greenhouse receives morning, mid-day, and afternoon sun.
Where is the best place to make a greenhouse? ›
Choose a site with good drainage and good sun exposure throughout the day. Position the greenhouse so it will face south and an open sky. This will maximize sun exposure during the cold months. The site should also be level or close to level.
Where is the best place for an indoor greenhouse? ›
You can get the most use out of your greenhouse by making sure that it gets enough sunlight. Place it as close to a window as possible. If you don't have enough natural light, consider buying a grow light to place inside your greenhouse.
