Selecting A Greenhouse
Greenhouse Styles (Freestanding
vs. Attached)
In Texas, Crockett
Intermediate School's science teacher, John Morgan,
Jr., didn't factor in ongoing funds for heating and
cooling the greenhouse. On a typical August afternoon,
the temperature in the greenhouse soars to a blistering
103° F, taxing the vented roof beyond its regulating
capacity. In hindsight, John wishes he had purchased
one or two smaller greenhouses rather than the freestanding
structure he did buy.
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Greenhouses can be either freestanding or attached to a building
and come in a variety of styles. Most commercial greenhouses
are freestanding structures built in exposed areas with plenty
of sunlight (maximum sunlight is the most important factor
for efficient plant growth).
A freestanding greenhouse could be a permanent structure, 
complete
with a foundation and automated controls, or a simpler (and
much less expensive) hoop-type structure that helps you start
growing garden plants earlier in the spring and extend the season
for some vegetables into the fall. Freestanding greenhouses
do have some drawbacks: In a school setting, they may be less
accessible to classrooms and to sources of electricity and water,
and heating costs tend to be higher. Attached greenhouses are
generally more accessible, cost less to heat, and are closer
to water and other services; however, they are typically more
costly to construct and receive less total light than freestanding
structures. For more greenhouse styles, take a look at our selection
in the Kidsgardening
Catalog.
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