Garden Articles - Greenhouse Basics: Part 3-Selecting The Best Location For Your Greenhouse

To propagation cuttings, start transplants and grow plants from seed, you will need a site that is partially shaded for your greenhouse. If a suitable site is not available, you can reduce the amount of light reaching the inside of the greenhouse by using a shade cloth. One strategy is to place a greenhouse under deciduous trees to provide shade from the hot summer sun but still maximize light exposure in the winter. There is a risk that falling tree branches could damage the greenhouse, especially if it has a glass roof.

Many people ask about the orientation of the greenhouse or more simply, which direction should it face? Commercial growers seem to prefer the North/ South direction because it has a more even distribution of light. Recent research suggests that the best direction depends on your latitude: above 40 degrees North an East/West orientation may be better. The most important consideration is to face the entrance away from prevailing winds to limit heat loss from cold air entering each time the door opens.

A level, well-drained site will make construction a lot easier and will help prevent stress on the structure of the greenhouse. Make sure that the site you choose has easy access to water and electricity and that all power into the greenhouse is on a GFIC circuit.

High winds can be a big problem for a greenhouse because constant cold wind can drain the interior heat. Look for a location where you will have a windbreak such as a house or garage that will not cause too much shadowing.

Access from your home to the greenhouse should be convenient. Remember that you will need to move plants, dirt, fertilizer and yourself to and from the greenhouse. Create a path to the greenhouse that is as short and level as possible and wide enough for a wheel barrel or garden cart. The easier it is to get to the greenhouse the more you will use it.