Years ago most greenhouses used to be a ugly structure at the end of the garden... now days there are plenty of attractive models available allowing the greenhouse to become a feature in it’s own right. Trust me, I’ve shown many people through my greenhouse at a dinner party with a wine in hand! Some important things to think about are;
Size - How much do you intend to grow? How much space do you have available for your greenhouse? Is it just for seedlings or for year round growing? From my experience people often wish they had a bigger greenhouse, somehow they always fill up!
Shape - Long, short, tall? What shape site do you have available? Will I need a permit from the council? Most councils allow a 10m2 structure on a site before a permit is required but it’s always a good idea to check with them first.
Quality & Construction - What is it made from? How long will it last? Generally people have a good idea on what they are after but do your research. Common sense prevails here. There are plenty of cheap imported greenhouses available but often these are not designed for New Zealand’s harsh conditions. You generally get what you pay for so if you want a greenhouse to last it is usually worth spending a little bit more and getting a good one.
Budget - How much am I prepared to pay for a greenhouse?
Site Conditions - Do I need a greenhouse which is frost proof, snow proof, strong enough to handle the wind? If you live in an exposed area you really need to consider how you are going to shelter the greenhouse and fix it to the ground.
Personal Circumstances - Can I take it with me if I move house? Is it safe around young children? Can I move this round the site to grow directly into fresh soil? All factors which are worth considering depending on your own circumstances. |
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