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Essential Greenhouse Guide

How to Choose a Greenhouse?

When choosing a greenhouse its essential to take into consideration the growing capacity, the actual physical space you have available in your garden, and your budget.

Enthusiastic amateur gardeners may choose a small greenhouse (6’ x 8’ or 6’ x 4’), while experienced gardeners who require a much bigger growing capacity might go for a large greenhouse, for example 10 wide by 12 long or even larger.

A good illustration of a small greenhouse would be the Popular range which come in sizes starting at a 6' x 4' (see here).  While the Supreme range offer larger sizes such as 8' x 14' (see here).

Lenehans offers a wide selection of Greenhouses, but before you choose yours, here are some important factors to consider:
    

How to Position your Greenhouse:




It is recommended that a greenhouse should be positioned so that the ridge-line of the roof lies east to west to ensure that the longest side of the greenhouse will be fully exposed to the sun from the south. Unless you choose 6’ x 8 or a virtually square greenhouse, in this case an east to west aspect makes little difference. It’s sufficient to position any one side of a small or medium sized greenhouse in a south or southwest facing aspect for best exposure to sunlight.

However, don’t worry if this isn’t possible because, if the roof is exposed to direct sunlight, this will be sufficient to warm-up your greenhouse considerably. Additionally, it is important to consider how you will get water if needed and electricity to your new greenhouse as quite a few Greenhouses require some form of electrical supply for example Propagators or greenhouse heaters during winter time.


Protect your Greenhouse from Windy Places


If your garden is in an exposed position consider the proximity of hedges, walls or fences that will provide some shelter from wind.

All greenhouses, even the very best ones, can be vulnerable to strong winds so this is something to bear in mind.

To prevent potential damage to your greenhouse, overhanging trees are best avoided if possible!


Measuring your site


The first step is to know the width and length of your site. Don’t forget to leave enough space around the perimeter of the greenhouse base, to allow you access for cleaning.

Once you have decided on the optimal size, simply choose your model, glazing options and colour.


                                                                              Glazing Options


  • Horticultural Glass:


Breaks in Shards. It’s not recommended for use around child play, its lightweight and should be placed in a Sheltered area since it’s considerably vulnerable to windy places.  


  • Toughened Glass

It’s much stronger than Horticultural glass and wont crack. If it does break it disintegrates into hundreds of small pieces. It is safer around children, heavyweight and better at handling exposed areas


  • Polycarbonate:

It is ideal for family gardens where safety is a priority. It is virtually unbreakable so kinds and pets can play, its lightweight and should be placed in sheltered areas.


Lean-To Greenhouses





       A Lean-To Greenhouse is also a great option if you don’t have much space available or if your budged is lower. As the name suggests a Lean-To greenhouse is a Greenhouse that leans up against an existing building wall, generally the greenhouse is attached to the side of a house.
       
      This type of Greenhouse can be a lot easier to put together as it need less pieces compared to that of a free-standing greenhouse.If the Lean-To / Wall-Mounted Greenhouse is positioned against the wall of your home, access to the greenhouse is a lot easier and more convenient.The additional wall from your home can also help in bringing some additional warmth to your greenhouse.

Lenehans Has It


If you’re a experienced gardener or an enthusiastic, don’t forget to check the extensive range of greenhouses at Lenehans.  There’s no doubt we have a selection and style to suit your needs and match any specific environment!