Greenhouses help gardeners grow plants. They guard plants from harsh weather. They give you more time to grow things and help you control the air around your plants. Whether you are new to gardening or think of a change, learn the types of structures. This guide breaks down words and ideas about greenhouses and polytunnels. It looks at how they are made, what they are made of, and why you may use them.
Understanding Greenhouses and Polytunnels
The Basics
A greenhouse is a building that shields plants and helps them grow. Polytunnels work much like greenhouses. Greenhouses use strong frames and clear panels like glass or hard plastic. Polytunnels use a bendy cover of thin plastic on an arched frame.
Key Terms
Familiarize yourself with these words:
- Glazing – The cover of the greenhouse. It can be glass, hard plastic, or thin plastic.
- Insulation – How well the building keeps heat inside. This is needed in cold times.
- Ventilation – How air moves in the space to keep it fresh and at the right temperature.
Types of Greenhouses
1. Classic Glass Greenhouses
Glass greenhouses look nice. Glass lets in much light. However, glass does not keep heat as well. In winter, warm air can leave fast. Some double-glass types keep heat a bit better. Other materials, like hard plastic, may work best for heat.
2. Hard Plastic Greenhouses
Greenhouses made with hard plastic are liked for their strength and heat hold. A double or five-layer hard plastic panel can keep heat in well. This type is good in cold places. Though the start-up cost is high, saving on heat over time can make it a good choice.
Polytunnels
Polytunnels cost less than many greenhouses. They use one layer of thin plastic. They might need a new cover every few years but are easy to put up and take down.
Structure and Design
Polytunnels usually come in two forms:
- Quonset – A curved shape made from long tubes bent into an arch.
- Gothic Arch – A pointy top shape. It gives more height and a steep roof for snow and debris to slide off.
Your choice of a polytunnel or a greenhouse depends on your money, look you want, and your local weather.
Climate Control: Heating and Cooling
Heating Strategies
It is key to keep plants warm in cold weather:
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Greenhouses – You can use small electric heaters or other heat systems. The cover type affects how much heat stays inside.
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Polytunnels – The single plastic layer may not keep heat well. A second layer that traps air can help make a warm bubble inside. This trick helps keep the space warm in winter.
Ventilation Solutions
Good air flow helps keep plants healthy:
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Greenhouses – They often have vents in the roof that open when it gets hot. Some allow side panels for extra air motion.
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Polytunnels – They need extra vents or roll-up sides to let air out. The single plastic layer means the heat leaves faster than in a greenhouse.
Choosing the Right Structure for Your Garden
When you pick a greenhouse or a polytunnel, think of these points:
- Budget – Greenhouses cost more at first. Polytunnels are usually a lower cost.
- Climate – Your local weather should guide what type you choose. Cold areas need better heat hold.
- Purpose – What do you wish to grow? Is it space for starting seeds or a place to grow food all year?
Conclusion
A greenhouse or a polytunnel can boost your gardening. They keep the right air and heat for your plants all year. Knowing their build, parts, and ways to manage heat will help you choose well. Whether you choose the strong look of a greenhouse or the simple style of a polytunnel, you can learn the art of indoor gardening. Happy gardening!
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