All You Need to Know About Greenhouse Extensions

Posted on June 13th, 2023.

A greenhouse extension is an additional structure that is attached to your home and is primarily used for growing plants. Greenhouse extensions can be made from a variety of materials, including glass, polycarbonate, and acrylic. They can be any size, but they are typically smaller than a traditional greenhouse.

Benefits of Greenhouse Extensions

There are many benefits to having a greenhouse extension. Here are a few of the most common:

• Extend your growing season: Greenhouses provide a warm and protected environment for plants, which can extend your growing season by several months. This means that you can start growing plants earlier in the spring and continue growing them later into the fall. This can be a great benefit if you live in a cold climate or if you want to grow plants that have a short growing season. For example, you could start growing tomatoes in your greenhouse in March or April, even if the weather outside is still too cold to plant them in the ground. You could also continue growing tomatoes in your greenhouse in October or November, even after the first frost has killed them in the garden.

• Grow more plants: Greenhouses provide more space for growing plants than a traditional garden. This is especially beneficial if you have limited space in your yard. With a greenhouse extension, you can grow more plants in a smaller space. This is because greenhouses are taller than traditional gardens, so you can grow plants vertically as well as horizontally. You can also grow plants that need more space, such as trees and shrubs, in your greenhouse.

• Protect your plants from the elements: Greenhouses protect your plants from the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. This can help to keep your plants healthy and thriving. Wind can damage plants by breaking their stems or tearing their leaves. Rain can wash away nutrients from the soil and can also cause diseases. Snow can weigh down plants and break their stems. By growing your plants in a greenhouse, you can protect them from these harmful elements.

• Improve the air quality: Greenhouses can help to improve the air quality in your home. This is because plants release oxygen into the air and help to remove carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By growing plants in your greenhouse, you can help to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. This can improve the air quality for you and your family.

• Add value to your home: Greenhouse extensions can add value to your home. This is because they are a desirable feature for many homebuyers. A greenhouse extension can make your home more attractive and can also increase its value. This is because a greenhouse can provide a place for you to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and it can also provide a place for you to grow your own food.

Types of Greenhouse Extensions

There are two main types of greenhouse extensions:

• Lean-to greenhouses: Lean-to greenhouses are attached to the side of your home. They are a good option if you have limited space in your yard. Lean-to greenhouses are typically less expensive than freestanding greenhouses and they can be easier to install.
• Freestanding greenhouses: Freestanding greenhouses are not attached to your home. They are a good option if you have more space in your yard and want a more independent greenhouse. Freestanding greenhouses offer more flexibility in terms of size and design, but they can be more expensive than lean-to greenhouses and they can be more difficult to install.

How to Choose a Greenhouse Extension

If you are considering adding a greenhouse extension to your home, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are a few tips:

• Decide what you want to grow: The type of plants you want to grow will determine the size and type of greenhouse extension you need.
• Consider the size of your home: If you have a small home, you may want to consider a lean-to greenhouse. If you have a larger home, you may want to consider a freestanding greenhouse.
• Think about the climate: If you live in a cold climate, you will need a greenhouse that is well-insulated. If you live in a warm climate, you may not need as much insulation.
• Set a budget: Greenhouse extensions can be expensive, so it is important to set a budget before you start shopping.
• Get quotes from several contractors: Once you have decided on the type of greenhouse extension you want, get quotes from several contractors. This will help you to get the best possible price.

Maintaining Your Greenhouse

Once you have installed your greenhouse extension, it is important to maintain it properly. Here are a few tips:

• Clean the glass regularly. The glass on your greenhouse should be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating. This will help to ensure that the maximum amount of sunlight can enter the greenhouse, which is essential for plant growth. You can use a mild soap and water solution to clean the glass.
• Ventilate the greenhouse regularly. The greenhouse should be ventilated to prevent the build-up of heat and humidity. This can help to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. You can ventilate the greenhouse by opening the doors and windows. You may also want to install a fan or two to help circulate the air.
• Control the temperature. The temperature in the greenhouse should be controlled to ensure that your plants are healthy. The ideal temperature for most plants is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. You can control the temperature in the greenhouse by using a heater or air conditioner.
• Water the plants regularly. The plants in your greenhouse should be watered regularly. The amount of water they need will vary depending on the type of plant and the climate. You should check the soil regularly to make sure it is moist, but not soggy.
• Fertilize the plants regularly. The plants in your greenhouse should be fertilized regularly. This will help them to grow strong and healthy. You can fertilize your plants with a liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer.
• Remove dead or diseased plants. Dead or diseased plants can spread diseases and pests to other plants in your greenhouse. Remove any dead or diseased plants immediately.
• Check for pests and diseases. Pests and diseases can be a problem in greenhouses. Check your plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases. If you find any pests or diseases, take steps to control them immediately.
• Clean up any debris. Debris can provide a home for pests and diseases. Clean up any debris in your greenhouse regularly.
• Winterize your greenhouse. If you live in a cold climate, you will need to winterize your greenhouse. This will help to protect your plants from the cold weather. You can winterize your greenhouse by covering it with a tarp or plastic sheeting. You may also want to add insulation to the greenhouse.

By following these tips, you can keep your greenhouse extension in good condition and ensure that your plants thrive.

Don't wait any longer to start growing your dream garden in a greenhouse that perfectly fits your needs and style. At Best Loft, we are committed to providing bespoke constructions that exceed your expectations. Contact us today at [email protected] to discuss your vision and learn more about our services. Let's work together to create the greenhouse of your dreams!