How to build a greenhouse out of old shelves and clear roofing panels
A greenhouse is great for starting off young seedlings or growing plants year-round. By utilizing transparent barriers around the greenhouse framework, solar radiation is allowed to enter the greenhouse (heating it up) while retaining heat and moisture needed for optimal plant growth. In a survival situation, you’ll need to make a greenhouse out of materials you can easily obtain. Here’s how to build a simple, and cheap, mini greenhouse using an old shelving unit and clear polycarbonate roofing material.
Gather shelf materials
Start with a tall (72” high) 3-foot by 2-foot plastic (or metal) shelving unit. Plastic and metal are preferred over wood because wood tends to rot when exposed to moisture.
Anchor the shelving unit to the ground
Stand the shelf on level ground in the spot where you wish it to be permanently located. Place patio stones around the legs, keeping them as close together as possible, while allowing a “hole” for the shelving unit’s legs. You can also use a single patio stone and drill a hole through the center of it if you’d like. The objective is to anchor the shelving unit to the ground as securely as possible.
Remove the shelf from atop the patio stones and drive four 2 ½ foot rebar into the ground through the holes between the patio stones. Place the shelf unit back into place by sliding the legs over the rebar (most shelving units have holes in the bottom so the shelf can be bolted to the floor).
Cut polycarb panels to the appropriate size
Polycarb roofing panels, commonly used to cover and shade patios, are easy to obtain. Cut transparent polycarb panels to size. You will need polycarbonate pieces for the back, sides, top, and front of the shelving unit.
Attach polycarb panels to the shelf unit
Drill pilot holes in the shelving unit frame and attach the polycarb sheets to the shelving unit with screws. You may fashion a door in the front of the unit using door hinges or loosely attach the front panel to the shelf unit so it can be easily lifted off and removed when you need to get to the plants.
Requirements for a successful greenhouse
Once you’ve completed the construction of your greenhouse, the following are some of the key requirements that need to be considered when planning and constructing a greenhouse:
Where to locate your greenhouse
One of the most important things to consider when planning a greenhouse is its location. The greenhouse should be located in an area that receives ample sunlight, ideally facing south or southeast to maximize sun exposure. The location should also be sheltered from strong winds, as high winds can damage the structure and the plants inside. Additionally, the greenhouse should be protected from extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snowfall, which can cause flooding or collapse.
Greenhouse ventilation
Adequate ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy growing environment and preventing heat buildup. The greenhouse should have vents that can be opened and closed as needed. The vents should be strategically placed to allow for proper air circulation and to prevent hot air from getting trapped inside the greenhouse. In addition to vents, a fan system can also be installed to help circulate air and prevent stagnant air pockets.
Heating and cooling your greenhouse
Maintaining a consistent temperature inside the greenhouse is essential for plant growth, especially during colder months. Heating and cooling systems should be installed to regulate the temperature inside the greenhouse. This can be achieved through the use of heaters, fans, and evaporative cooling systems. Choosing the right heating and cooling system will depend on factors such as the climate in your area, the size of your greenhouse, and the types of plants you plan to grow.
Lighting your greenhouse
Light is essential for plant growth, and in areas with limited sunlight, additional lighting may be required. The type and intensity of lighting will depend on the plants being grown. For example, plants that require more sunlight, such as tomatoes or peppers, will need higher intensity lighting than plants that require less sunlight, such as lettuce or herbs. When installing lighting, it’s important to ensure that the light source is positioned at the right distance from the plants to prevent burning or stunting growth.
Irrigation in your greenhouse
An efficient irrigation system is necessary to ensure that plants receive the necessary amount of water. This can be done through the use of drip irrigation systems or overhead sprinklers. When designing your irrigation system, consider the types of plants you plan to grow, as well as the water source and pressure. It’s also important to ensure that the irrigation system is properly maintained to prevent leaks or blockages.
Pest Control
Pests can be a major problem in greenhouses, and can quickly damage or destroy plants. To prevent infestations, pest control measures such as screening and the use of natural predators should be implemented. Screening can help prevent pests from entering the greenhouse, while natural predators such as ladybugs or praying mantises can help control pests that do manage to get inside.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the greenhouse is necessary to keep it in good condition and ensure that it continues to provide a healthy growing environment for plants. This includes regular cleaning, checking for leaks or damage, and replacing worn or broken equipment. By keeping your greenhouse well-maintained, you can help prevent problems and ensure that your plants have the best possible growing conditions.
