Apart from the basic parts of a greenhouse, which are the frame, coverings, and walls, there are still other parts that you need to add in order to ensure a livable environment for your plants. These include accessories, greenhouse tools, and upgraded versions of the said basic parts.
However, if you’re working with limited time and budget, it can be hard to keep track of the many necessary parts that a greenhouse should have. Not only can it be overwhelming, but it can also end up in faulty structures and functions if you don’t plan your layout properly.
To avoid the said issues, the best thing that you can do is to start with the major parts. This article will walk you through them in the next sections.
1. Greenhouse Windows
Greenhouse windows will serve as the foundation of your greenhouse. Without this, you can’t expect the structure to be able to cater to your plants’ needs, especially in terms of sunlight distribution, insulation, climate protection, and airflow control.
That said, it’s just right that you ensure the quality of your greenhouse windows. Take the material, size, style, and expected life into account.
The material will, most especially, play a big part in the benefits that you’ll get from the window. Acrylic and polycarbonate are two of the best choices if you want recommendations. As for the size, you need to make sure that it will have just the right fitting when compared to your existing frame and walls.
2. Greenhouse Plastic Covering
Usually, installing a greenhouse plastic covering, also known as a greenhouse second layer, is considered optional. Recently, however, more and more people have become aware of the advantages of having one. This makes the community find the part necessary, especially if you own special out-of-season plants with strict growth requirements.
There are two main choices when it comes to installing a second layer. The first involves a simple greenhouse plastic that is focused more on improving insulating properties. This is also the more affordable choice.
On the other hand, you can choose to layer your greenhouse with the same material you used. For instance, if your windows are walls are made out of polycarbonate, then adding a thinner version of another polycarbonate on top is your second choice. This is better if you want to enhance both the insulation and protective qualities of your greenhouse.
3. Thermostat
Since the main goal of greenhouses is to enable gardeners to plant even out-of-season crops, then it’s just right that you add a thermostat. This will allow you to manage the temperature inside your greenhouse and eliminate the need for separate controls in cooling and heating systems. You won’t also have to settle with whatever the current temperature is in your area.
In installing the said part, you can choose from three controller options. These are manual, programmable or digital, and smart. It will really just depend on your preference, so consider what you want in terms of convenience and control options. Smart thermostats are the most popular and functional nowadays, but they can also be the costliest.
4. Lighting Equipment
You won’t be able to work your way around your greenhouse if you don’t have reliable lighting equipment. They are also necessary for continuous plant growth since, after all, the sun won’t be up 24/7 to cater to your crops’ needs.
Now, what you need to look for are high-intensity lights that can function continuously for 6 hours minimum. You also need light types that can easily be placed together without taking too much space.
For recommendations, you can look into HPC lighting. LED lights are also ideal, but you may need to spend more in using them since you will need multiple strips to adhere to your plants’ standards.
5. Heaters, Coolers, and Ventilation Parts
The last parts that you should have include heaters, coolers, and ventilators. These three go hand in hand in ensuring that the internal environment of your greenhouse is balanced in all aspects. Lacking even one of these can significantly affect the quality of your plants and the general process of their growth.
Summary
To sum it up, the five major parts that you should have in your greenhouse are windows, plastic covering, a thermostat, lighting equipment, and heat and ventilation-focused tools. These are the main ones that you should prioritize, especially if you’re just starting to build your greenhouse from scratch.
The other less necessary parts like curtains, shade cloths, and multiple water systems can be installed later once you have a clear plan for your crops. Of course, you can also go for them if you have a sufficient budget. Just make sure to remember important notes like making well-thought-out plans, buying high-quality parts from reliable manufacturers, and likes.
