Greenhouse construction

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Greenhouse Construction

Practical Greenhouse Construction Tips

Too often it happens that we are the victims of circumstance and have to make the best of what falls to our lot, but when we can be the architects of our own fortunes in greenhouse matters it is well to know beforehand exactly what we want.

Without pretending to enter too much into details, which must be regulated by individual cases, let me set down a few points of construction of special importance to the well-doing of the unheated greenhouse (see cool greenhouse or cold greenhouse) which have come under my own purposes.

For a conservatory the case is different, and east, west, or even north, should be chosen rather than a southern aspect, which is generally far too scorching in spring and summer for the well being of plants in flower, though necessarily colder in winter. It has happened to me to enter into possession of a conservatory so badly planned at the outset, though intended to be imposing, and such a veritable sun- trap, that it was hopeless to try to keep it well arranged with fresh-looking foliage or flowers.

Ultimately it was turned into an abode for Cacti and succulent plants, for which it was passably well adapted. For strictly decorative purposes, therefore, a north aspect may be not without its advantages.

Otherwise it is to be avoided, as it can only be used successfully for certain shade-loving plants, of which Lapageria may be given as a notable example.

It is well to remember that under any aspect favourable or otherwise something in the way of plant life may be found to which the special circumstances are exactly suited, and so, when these are adverse, to take courage. It sometimes happens that a most unpromising greenhouse may turn out to be a blessing in disguise. A lean-to house in a north aspect, for example, has been found before now to be specially well adapted for the culture of certain fine Orchids, such as Disas, and for New Zealand Filmy Ferns.

Site and aspect being chosen, the special needs of the unheated greenhouse must be considered. These are greenhouse water supply, greenhouse dryness, greenhouse ventilation, greenhouse tempature control and greenhouse shading.