What are
/r/Greenhouses'
favorite Products & Services?
From 3.5 billion Reddit comments
The most popular Products mentioned in /r/Greenhouses:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/Greenhouses:
Weather Underground
iSmart.Life
Gumtree
The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/Greenhouses:
The most popular reviews in /r/Greenhouses:
Get another, some good deals on Gumtree some are even free if you dismantle.
In New England? You really need a double wall. That's an awfully nice greenhouse, but it just doesn't trap enough air to really insulate. I know lots of people try the bubble wrap solution, but it sometimes yields mixed results.
If it were me, I'd get a bunch of 1x2s (or even 2x2s), and figure out a way to attach them to the inside walls. Then I'd get some 6 mil greenhouse film and staple it to the inside of the 2x2s, using batten tape.
Do it right, and you'll have 2 inches of trapped, 'dead' air on every wall, and it's hard to beat that for insulation. It's like building a greenhouse inside the greenhouse. Won't cost much more than a hundred bucks, but it'll make a massive difference in your heating costs!
Mushrooms emit CO2 as they digest their substrate. There are commercial bags that are designed to release CO2 specifically for greenhouses.
I haven’t had this long to speak to it’s durability, but it’s cheap and works. It has a graph on the app to see the trends.
Govee WiFi Temperature Humidity Monitor, Wireless Digital Indoor Hygrometer Thermometer with App Alerts, Temperature Sensor Humidity Gauge for Home Pet Garage Cropper Greenhouse(Don't Support 5G WiFi) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FBCTQ3L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7RCGGCA9V9D693S1AWMY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I think it's THIS one. The shelves come with it. We did secure the shelves with zipties and then anchored the whole thing to the walls of my porch for good measure. One day I want a glass sunroom off the master bedroom, and fill it with plants!
> How do you keep algae and nasty growth down in it?
Pond plants. Specifically, water hyacinth, parrot feather, and water lettuce. If you don't want to have fish in there, use some of this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0001AUF8G
But fish, even feeder goldfish - you can get 50 for about 10 bucks - are worth having. I water all the greenhouse plants with pond water, which gives a very light fertilizer boost, and it's completely organic.
I would HIGHLY reccommend these. This is what I used on my greenhouse, super easy to cut and great insulation.
​
I have these window openers in my greenhouse and I love them. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0083IZG0A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_eAbxRckxeMbzQ
A shade net is nice for the hottest summer months.
A fan is nice if you have power. If you don't have power then a solar panel + battery could be nice to make that work.
Reflective insulation along the north wall may be helpful, and if you have room for any thermal mass (water jugs painted black) then that will help balance day/night temperature swings as well.
Good luck, have fun!
https://www.amazon.com/Govee-Thermometer-Hygrometer-Bluetooth-Temperature/dp/B07R586J37
can't beat the price, a little buggy but works, i had this in my green house for a while but switched to there wifi one.
Slightly different than normal on this Amazon page. Similar to LL Bean duck boots.
Edit: Or galoshes.
i'm only posting as a fellow MA residence and have barely 1 season use of these but this is what i got for early indoor seed starting. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FZTKYXV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I believe i got them because they are "full spectrum"?, meaning the light gives off the range of light for seedlings and older plants (i think).
Got them all daisy chained onto a 5-shelf wired shelving unit.
I guess it worked OK, but we think we would have done better if the seed trays were physically closer to the light...like 2 inches away....our shelves are fairly large.
Put 2-3 strands of outdoor incandescent lights. Place them more at the bottom so the heat rises. Use a heavy duty extention cord. Not sure if this link will work but here goes: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08P1CF7BM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1
I saw someone using a submersible heater in water buckets for heat. Definitely won’t be tropical in there but will probably keep things from freezing. Low cost of operation. Probably need a couple.
Its not single pane.. its a thin greenhouse uv coated polycarbonate panels. They are twin wall type panels like this
>I’m not sure about the wind. I’m moving there in a month.
Whether underground has a section for checking historical weather records.
>I assume I can prune aggressively to keep them under control if needed
I am not sure. But I have seen some examples where people train/prune dwarf varieties.. May be worth considering.
Wow, 9A is super long and hot seasons. I’m in 4A and I can’t even grow lettuce, cilantro, spinach, or broccoli passed the first week of June because it gets too hot and they bolt.
You could try a greenhouse frame with a covering of bird netting instead if animals are undead your concern:
I have an 8x10 plastic greenhouse in Northern California. This greenhouse heater has been a great little addition to keep the greenhouse warm overnight in the winter. With outdoor temps around freezer (NorCal not CO ;) it will keep the greenhouse around 50 degrees. When it gets colder it will keep everything above freezing.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J6B2F1Q
It's not cheap to run. How painful depends on your electric costs. Obviously set it up with a timer. I use a smart switch and have it turn on twice over the course of the night to reduce energy use.
But that heater has been going strong for three seasons now.
Good luck and how lucky are your students to have you!
Look at RV/ commercial truck suppliers. They have standalone solar as well as 12V, 24V and 36V fan-assisted roof ventilators if you want to just get a little panel, charge controller, battery and a thermostat to make your own.
If you have power or don't want a hole in the roof, get 110V axial cooling fans and mount up high for exhaust or down low for forced inflow- they are very quiet. Even packaged with speed controllers they are dirt cheap: https://www.amazon.ca/GDSTIME-Airflow-Dual-120mm-Powered/dp/B081DXD9P6 A line voltage thermostat is all you need to control for temp.
I've heated pretty much exactly this kind of greenhouse, for years I used them to get my seedlings outside well before last frost. I was able to get by quite efficiently with a 200 watt heater, easily protecting down to 20F. I did use a temperature controller, FWIW, to prevent it from just being on all the time.
You'll have fun! Maybe add some shelves for more space and even twist clips in the roof grooves for some lighter hanging stuff.
That plant on the left in pic #3 probably won't like it terribly hot though. :)
I use these as well for our greenhouse. They keep great history records but I do find I only get 2 years out of them in the greenhouse. Recently switched to these inkbird because of the difference in price (got a dozen on sale for $20 cdn each) and they have been great so far. They also just take AAA so much easier for switching.
I use this ORIA indoor/outdoor thermometer. It has 3 transmitters. I keep one in the greenhouse, one outside, and one in the crawl space (just for kicks). It's been very reliable and accurate so far.
I use these they work good. Inkbird makes some too that I’ve used in the past. No complaints either except you need to buy a hub separately for wifi control.
Here is one: https://www.amazon.com/Outsunny-Portable-Walk-Garden-Greenhouse/dp/B00H27RROQ
I bought two of these a couple years ago, and never even opened the box (covid happened and disrupted my plans). lmk if interested, i could give you a good deal
Yep just a small electric one! Something kind of like this but older (I got it at an edtate sale for cheap. Nothing fancy! it just rotates and has an auto off.
For the fans I used ones designed for vehicle radiators. Runs on 12v. I measured the flow rate and it was less than indicated. 2 fans were barely enough to keep up.
(Pack of 2) 14 Inch High Performance 12V Electric Slim Radiator Cooling Fan w/Mounting Kit - Red https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H29LSK8/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_C142TY0AH6QZVW86N5NZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I found that Amazon Canada had something that looked like the ones from Alibaba.com that had mixed reviews. The one that I was looking at was Outsunny 6' x 6' x 6.4' Walk-in Garden Greenhouse Polycarbonate Panels Plants Flower Growth Shed Cold Frame Outdoor Portable Warm House Aluminum Frame https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QWW9WWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_D5MVCSAHVHPS9H08JA97?psc=1
Definitely the price (not including the shipping and customs) look better on Alibaba! 😂. But $560 is almost half the Palram at the same size!
Oh btw I did find that Canada Greenhouse Kit had better prices
Also…. I’ll have to figure out shelving costs as well! I might go Amazonbasics to solve that.
Here's an example - there are a bunch of similar "brands" but you'll get the idea. I usually buy from ACF Greenhouses as they sold me a Grow Mor greenhouse that I've been happy with.
No I used this SHANS Greenhouse Lock Channel & Wiggle Wire, C-Channel & Spring Wire Bundle, Plastic Film or Shade Cloth Attachment (20) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JBZ6X19/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GNB9J9872GCFNYFV78JP
A channel system with plastic coated wire designed for poly greenhouses. Staples sound like a horrible way to do it. Thanks for looking out though!!
Thanks for the tips! I bought this plastic here. Right now the only vent I have is the door, and I'm not quite sure how I could make a window that'd be easy to open/close.
The below link is my teachers highly recommended book. He's worked in many countries, and many companies, and has found that these were the best overall guidelines.
​
Amtrak Solar Powerful 50-Watt Galvanized Steel New Upgraded 12" Fan Housing, Solar Attic Fan Quietly Cools, Ventilates Exhaust Your House, Garage or RV and Protects Against Moisture Build-up https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D1RYQ8K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_1H76Z1C0Z09YJP94NYPE
I’m a fan of frugal, and HF. That said, given the price point and reviews of the HF product, I would recommend canopy greenhouse
It’s enough to get you started without breaking the bank. I laid wood chips on the floor, added a barrel of water to absorb heat, and used logs to weigh it down.
This would save you some cash, and give you a start on either growing seedlings, sourcing materials, or both.
Best.
Greenhouses are humid. Most plants don't mind. You'll likely be most concerned with grey mold (botrytis). So: clean up any and all dead plant material. I finally solved my mold problems with a very light dose of sulphur: just mixed a small amount with water and sprayed down everything: floor, walls, benches. And with circulation: a cheap box fan from lowes or home depot should be running all the time.
Before you try mechanical intervention, do your research. Running a dehumidifier 24/7 is like running a giant heater, and it gets real expensive right quick.
Govee Indoor Hygrometer Thermometer 2 Pack, Bluetooth Humidity Temperature Gauge with Large LCD Display, Notification Alert with Max Min Records, 2 Years Data Storage Export for Room Greenhouse, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0872X4H4J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_CNESVRA1CHGGJCJA0SJ8
I purchased this and have been very happy with it! It takes about 12 seconds to update once the app is opened.
If this is your first time growing, i'd suggest waiting on the Dragon fruit. it's big, and it's a multi year plant (I think) Amazon, look at a most greenhouses under $100, pretty much all the same, green plastic cover with 3-4 shelves on each side. Easy to setup. They aren't amazing but I have a few diff greenhouses and this one has lasted the last 4 seasons, just check for the better reviewed ones. Example
Cheap Amazon one, but it came with three sensors. One in greenhouse, one randomly outside and one in a cat house (for any roaming/visiting felines). It works fairly well. However, it should read "damn cold" right now in the greenhouse (Wisconsin).
Well, not really. We are still in the 50s at night, with maybe a peak of 70 on some days. The growing season here is short and better for cool temperature plants. We don't have a long period of warmth or sun that the plants really want. Compare Nashville, where I'm from, with it's big fat temp curves: https://www.wunderground.com/forecast/us/tn/nashville. And here's Seattle: https://www.wunderground.com/forecast/us/wa/seattle/KWASEATT1957. We have spiky curves that rocket up to the high and immediately fall back down.
Additionally, I'm within walking distance of the Puget Sound, in a shady downtownish neighborhood. My next door neighbor has lived here over 50 years. We were discussing how you can't even get a tomato to get fully grown a lot of years. He can only grown them in one spot, against the back wall of my little shed.
Now, I'll say, drive an hour or more in any direction away from the Puget Sound and you'll have much better sun and warmth.
The heater? My husband got it on Amazon: iPower Electric Heater Fan for Greenhouse, Grow Tent, Workplace, Overheat Protection, Fast Heating, Spraywater proof IPX4, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0869JKCF2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZBJ6ER02Y9QN9JWRFZZ1
I put them in a dome and place it inside of a cabinet dresser lol
I use a 2ft t5 light 24 watts
Something similar to this
On separate outlets, I run one satellite dish heater and one infrared heater.
Dr. Heater DR218-1500W Greenhouse Garage Workshop Infrared Heater, 1500-watt https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J6B2F1Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GRDVGR2E64C7BAMRB1NX?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
All summer, the device perfectly opened and closed the window in the greenhouse. The device is quite simple and does not require electricity. It works on temperature, when it is hot, the piston extends, when the temperature drops, then the piston retracts.
Bottles are used to close the window, as the window opens from the top and one spring is not enough to close it. The device can lift up to 7 kilograms, which is enough to lift bottles. The bottles are a counterweight. When it gets hot the device opens the window the bottles go up. I wrote a short review. Hope this will be helpful.
Agree you'll definitely need ventilation, and maybe even an opaque roof.
I have several vents on my reclaimed window greenhouse, which is roughly the same size as yours. I built in a roof vent, and I have a window that opens in the back, as well as 4 windows that open on the sides. I have a cheap box fan that I use in summer to keep air moving and vent the hot air.
I used these automatic openers on the side windows and the roof vent: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P8ZT9MC/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_1?smid=A3VHN5T7OTWVZ0&psc=1
You can get away with a tiny heater for a small greenhouse like that. As helio said get one with an integrated thermostat (not just a timer) and one with an internal fan. They aren't hard to find- here's the one I use. Put it a few inches above the floor level and it will do the job.
Don't bother with water or other "heat sinks." They take up a lot of room and won't make a meaningful difference. I tried.
For reinforcements and modifications, either look at the bottom of the Harbor Freight greenhouse page for links or search Google for "Harbor Freight greenhouse". There are plenty of videos available from people regarding their greenhouse builds. Lots of tips and ideas.
I'm in the middle of combining two of their 6x8 models (end to end). I learned from the first one I ever bought from them.... put the sliding doors on hinges. It might work a bit better in your zone, but with the snow and ice we get, the sliding design works poorly.
Also, for assembly, lay out the aluminum pieces ahead of time. The instructions and illustrations are badly done, so sometimes just looking at the photo on the box is more helpful.
If you wish to hang planters and other items, there are plastic clips available through Amazon that will fit into the groove in the middle of the aluminum beams. They are stronger than they look and quite useful. Example
Good luck on your build! You'll love it when it's done.
To address your watering comment, this is what I bought. I run my misters on it. It works great and has a lot of settings.
Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer, 1, Multi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FBOUEJC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_60QF3XQPX44S4F7ZWTQV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The plastic wrap works… Last week I put clear corrugated panels over it, as I doubt the 8 mil plastic by itself would hold up to Fall and Winter storms in my area (Washington State)
How much extra space do you have in your house/apartment? It wouldn’t be the most aesthetic solution, but you could put up a cheap plastic greenhouse inside (something like this). It would keep the cat out and, unlike the ikea glass cabinet, would probably fit all of your plants.
so we got an 8x12 greenhouse kit from the NZ company Wintergardenz, and pretty cool so far, but because we were trying to use this as a hangout area and place for my partner to do ceramics, I am a little extra vigilant about moisture and potential areas for mold.
around the base and along the roof/wall corner are some ways rainwater makes it inside, and i think i have the solution in flashing the joints with 6” deck tape
the problem i am forseeing, and maybe i am paranoid, is the front door is a slider type and the aluminum track for the door fills up with water a little bit when it rains, that track is also on the inside. We live in a pretty rainy place all winter, and i am picturing standing water there, kept warm by the heater. Isnt that a recipe for mold? been thinking through my options and have thought of making a second vestibule off of the front door to take the brunt of the rain and wetness.
what would you guys do?
I know this is unconventional, having the decking floor etc. i have gravel all under the base on both sides so there isnt really airflow from the outside.
I run a fan to aid in pollination. it did help. eggplants were the worst, used a small paintbrush to hand pollinate em.
​
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0796M8144/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Im a complete noob but are you talken about something like this? I could run electric but idk how. Could i add more batterys to that kit?
SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer for iPhone/Android - Humidity & Temperature Smart Sensor with Alerts. Developed and Supported in The USA https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AEQ9X9I/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_glt_fabc_CG1E80X9F0JRK5BK30RA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I like this one!
Landgarden Outdoor Misting Cooling System,33ft Misting Line,11 Brass Mist Nozzles for Patio Garden Greenhouse https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FC8BL7C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_RGKF2SQTRC2E7DZMNFN8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Raindrip R675CT Analog 3-Dial Water Timer, 1, Multi https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FBOUEJC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BJGRF3647878S6JVXQPQ
Emerson Quiet Kool 5,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner with Mechanical Rotary Controls, EARC5MD1, 5000, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071RG6HQ4/ref=cm_sw_r_sm_apa_glt_fabc_453XF9J393MPVG1B1KMZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Only suggestion i can come up with is there are solar powered vent arms (To open and close vents) and they work based on temperature. Perhaps use that to open and then have the fan seperate? Thats what Im planning to do.
​
Heres what im talking about.... https://www.amazon.com/Solar-Vent-Opener-Greenhouse-Greenhouses/dp/B081CVBN9K/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=greenhouse+vent+arm+solar&qid=1618893411&sr=8-8
I put this up in my small greenhouse last week and I'm loving it. It uses wifi and has plugs for cooling fans and heaters to automatically control them. Decent price and works great.https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08P86Z6ZV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
Edited to add: if you don't have wifi it is programmable without it.
Well, the mesh to keep out the bugs is a good idea. If you want to cool it down a bit in the daytime, create some airflow. Maybe a small fan on one end blowing air in and one on the other end pulling air out. Is it a small or large structure? A smaller area is easier to keep warm.
If you can close it up sometime before the temperature goes down to hold in heat, add an additional layer of thick plastic over it (construction-type plastic). Any small openings will let heat out quickly. A lot of these type of greenhouses are generally for starting plants to transfer to gardens, so they're not made for year-round warmth.
If the plants are on a shelf or surface and you have an electrical outlet nearby, perhaps add some warming mats underneath the pots. Usually Amazon has the best prices on these. They don't get really hot, but just keep the bottom of the pot or tray warm all night.
If you can find some rolls of bubble wrap, try wrapping it around the plants at night to keep them a bit warmer. A small heater on a thermostat (to keep it at a steady temp) would help, but would be costly to run as it would be on all night.
Check how the plastic cover closes or hangs... are there lots of areas for heat to escape? You mentioned that it rolls down.... to keep the plastic down and in place, maybe attach something to the ends that hit the ground to weigh it down a bit and keep it all closed properly.
All that said, I would love to have those high/low temps. I live in Wisconsin USA.... I don't even attempt any growing in winter (too busy moving snow out of the way). If you can find ways to raise the temp at least 10 - 20 degrees in the greenhouse at night, your plants should be happy. Good luck!
Thank you!! With the wifi one, do you get a notification on your phone as well? The heat will be self sufficient when it gets too cold, but if it's too hot, it means I forgot to open the windows. Is this the one you have?
They will work but that's pricey for a 2 foot light. For a few bucks more you can get a 4-pack of slightly brighter Barrina lights on Amazon. They have a bunch of different sizes and brightness but here is an example:
We've had this for years and it's it's excellent and accurate. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071VKV4HJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
A fan would be good, I have a few. Power for the fan. Make sure you have some way to vent the heat. Another thing you can get is shade cloth, these are great and I used one on mine last summer.
I grow a lot of hydroponics in my greenhouse, my plant benches/tables are a little less than hip high. I should of made them about 6"-12" lower, a lot of the tomatoes I grow, the fruits are mostly head high or over my head (should of made my benches a little lower) oh well, not too big of a deal.
A place to put all your GH gear, a spot for your clippers, twine, fertilizers, etc. Most of my stuff is in some cardboard boxes and the rest is on the plant shelves.
Have fun! Show us some pics when you get going.
This looks great, I just got the same if not very similar greenhouse that is on raised pallets and a slanted wood plank for easy storage for the mower and my question is would these types of lights work I just put up the greenhouse yesterday and organized it with tools today an noticed that when entering I need to slightly lean down I’m 6’1 and when inside my head almost touches the ceiling.
Thanks -Brandon
Solar Lights Outdoor, NIORSUN LED Solar Pendant Lights 5000K|4000K|3000K| Dimmable Lighting with Remote Control, 2x16.4ft Cable IP65 Waterproof for Indoor, Garden, Patio, Garage, Camp(2 Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08H89W6Y7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_HCs9FbM53G174?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I was thinking about having the top row plants be the ones that require a more light, as unfortunately I am on a bit of a budget. I apologize if I'm not being very helpful as greenhouses and grow lamps are new to me. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07H89NSYF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_6DN7FbHGN9S6F
Need a link to the greenhouse so we can see how big it is and how the racks are . If you’re using artificial light it’s going to be more intense the closer to the light . If you want even lighting on all of the racks you will need separate lights under each rack, otherwise you could maybe get get away with putting the low light plants on the bottom but the ones above will shade them, this will work better if the thing is outside or by the window getting natural light too. If you wanna just put one light on top a full spectrum led would probably suffice for what your doing, not sure what strength though . It’s going to be pretty strong close to the light but once it gets a few feet down the light will get pretty weak even though it looks bright, so you gotta check the specs. If you have like four racks in both sides you can put a light in the middle but you may be better off putting two weaker ones on each side instead, because not only does the light get weak with distance below but distance going off to the side too. These lights have a good diagram of how the light spreads if you scroll through the pics. it’s the fourth picture in that particular light covered 3x3 feet but as you can see it’s most intense in the middle, so if you put that in the middle of two racks , most of the light would get wasted
Plants need a lot of light. You're not going to get enough from a window in the winter. I bought these lights for a 5'x3' grow tent. They do produce some heat but the fire risk is little to none. On par or close to using a light bulb.
One thing to think about that I learned from this book is to dig deeper than needed and install a false floor, if possible. As cool air sinks, this allows the cool air to sink deeper than where you actually have your plants, keeping them warmer. It's a book for hippies, they actually suggest having that "pit" be a home for rabbits, as they like the cold.
Here’s the hardware I ordered for the two window and roof vent, took awhile to arrive but couldn’t find anything local: HelloCreate Window Opener Bar... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085SZ7S14?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I got this in recommended just yesterday.
Considering you can source the wood needed, it might cost you a lot less to try out the dome shape with this kit.
Electricity is going to get expensive in zone 6... you're not just talking about a few nights of heat, but days as well, maybe even for a few weeks at a time. You'll likely need a propane solution.
Lots of people use camp stoves. I've actually been looking at something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002G51BZU/ I'd get an adapter so I could hook up a large propane tank, like the one my barbeque uses. I haven't tried this yet, so take it with a grain of salt!
Greenhouse is doing its job. Outside temps fell to the upper 30s last week and the greenhouse never fell below 50*. Im going to hook up the heating/cooling controller this weekend to run the exhaust and space heater on its own. Clones are still rooting fine with no supplemental light. These little bluetooth thermometers are pretty cool and will alert you on your phone if things get too hot or too cold for a little piece of mind. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CGM8DC7?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_product_details Anyone know if Kratom goes dormant just due to cold temps or is the photoperiod involved?
So, the same company was selling similar 'greenhouses' at Aldi's last spring, 6x6x 2 feet deep. $26 bucks, so I bought three of them. Exactly the same materials, exactly the same 'closing' materials. They are excellent for hardening off young seedings, and keeping sudden storms from washing out seed trays, and even making cuttings.
But they're not greenhouses, in spite of their color and their name. They can't be sealed, so it would be a fool's errand to try to heat them: you may as well try to heat a house with the doors and windows wide open.
The frames on mine are kinda wimpy, and depend on the 'skin' for their structural integrity, so it's hard to imagine a successful DIY fix. I may disagree with my esteemed colleagues on some of their comments elsewhere in the thread, but they are certainly right about this one.
You don't say where you're located, so it's hard to advise on alternatives. If I were back in San Diego, I'd have full winter use for that structure. If I were back in Western Pennsylvania, I think I'd just roll it up and put it in the garage come October.
Thanks! Absolutely. I bought an outdoor thermometer that had three transmitters. I have one set up under the north eave of the house and the others in the cold frame/greenhouse. Then busted out my label maker!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MYY3G38/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CQKKFbCRWF07M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I haven’t plugged it in yet because it just came today, but I have an outlet outside right next to the greenhouse so I got a 3-plug outdoor extension cord to go from the outlet to inside the greenhouse. I also got a utility heater and a thermostat plug that plugs in between the extension cord and that heater that will cut power to the heater once it reaches the temperature. Then once it gets colder than the low temperature that you set, it turns it back on. Here’s the link to the product I got:
DIGITEN DTC151 Digital Thermostat Outlet Switch LCD Simple-Stage Plug-in Temperature Controller Thermometer 110V 15A Heating Cooling Mode for Homebrew Fermentation Greenhouse Terrarium Reptile https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07BFR1Z4B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_YugKFbFQ1X5CM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
You're looking for a temperature/humidity controller. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GQWY9HM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_2QVGFbSCAF64Y
This will allow you to set a humidity/temperature level and turn something on to compensate. I have 2 of these and they work great.
You could attach some corrugated polycarbonate to enclose the space. Looks like you have room to screw it just under the eaves there and it would only leave tiny holes. You could also get some drain pans and put your plants in those if you're worried about water leaking. These types of pans are used under water heaters or like those under a laundry sink. Any home depot type store should carry them
Then just run the drains from those pans out under your balcony wall there. Humidity is simple enough to deal with by installing a backdraft port through the polycarbonate with a fan. I love these temperature/humidity sensors because they work great and are super convenient https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GQWY9HM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
plug the vent fan into the second plug for the humidity controller and you even plug a window fan into the temperature sensor to pull heat out into the balcony so you wouldn't have to use a secondary heater.
This has a ton of great information even if you're not doing hydroponics, it's super comprehensive on a variety of greenhouse topics - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1439878676/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My bad, it's not absorbing more water, it's water holding capacity is increasing which allows it to absorb more moisture if/when it's available. So increased holding capacity decreases the humidity.
Depending on where your humidity sensor is, it's probably just reading the initial vapor from the humidifier. End of the day, you're going to have to keep that humidifier running and you're going to be dealing with constant humidity swings every time your lights turn on and off and the temp changes.
I had a similar issue with my seed germination cabinet and ended up solving it by exposing the lighting heatsyncs outside of the box to remove that variable and using a crockpot attached to a humidity controller to keep the heat/humidity where i needed it. It just has a thermostat/humidistat that turns it on and off as needed. I use this controller. Super simple to use.
This is what I have in my 120sq ft greenhouse in the Pacific Northwest. Its working out great and I don’t notice much of a difference on my electricity bill.
Bio Green PAL 2.0/USDT Palma Greenhouse Heater incl. Digital Thermosta https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XCJGNJK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_LdMCFbEQWV2DT
While I was waiting for my greenhouse to be delivered I ordered this book (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1539126196/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_En8wFbCPFQAGA) and reading through it answered so many questions and even gave me ideas for things that hadn't crossed my mind.
Nice greenhouse. The twinwall should serve you well.
Pretty sure it would be more efficient to heat the water, rather than the air - same principle as oil filled heaters rather than simple electric coils. But you'd still need some kind of heat exchange. I've been thinking hard about using an aquarium air pump for the exchange. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Lewisia-Commercial-Magnetic-Aquarium-Hydroponics/dp/B07919S51M/
I don't know if 110 gallons is enough water - that's only 4 feet by two feet by two feet. I'm in zone 7b and I'm planning a much bigger setup, but I overdo everything. For most winter days, if you keep the air pump running, it will 'inject' the heat from the warm greenhouse air into the heat sink - the water - and then release it at night.
Two other possible benefits: the rising pumped warm air should give you good air circulation throughout the greenhouse, so you may get away without needing a powered fan. And electric or flame heaters can really dry out the air, which makes conditions more difficult. This solution would keep the humidity up, even if on some nights you need to resort to an additional heat source.
Definitely look into automatic window pistons
I have these made in England. Bayliss XL Auto Vent Opener https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0027DJ5RM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mhalFb1V766FQ
You can buy cheap crap from eBay. Put them on your Christmas list.
Thanks for the advice!
When you say "the tie down", are you referring to the included anchors, or accessory strap-down kits?
I was imagining something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Palram-Anchor-Nature-Greenhouses-Silver/dp/B00SQ169OQ
I'd use a poly roll like that at the link. You can just staple it to the wooden frame (assuming the roof is sloped). It will hold heat somewhat and could make it work.
felt and plastic weed block - i bought this on amazon- ECOgardener Premium 5oz Pro Garden Weed Barrier Landscape Fabric Durable & Heavy-Duty Weed Block Gardening Mat, Easy Setup & Superior Weed Control, Eco-Friendly & Convenient Design, 4ft x 50ft https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06W2J76W3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_3IjeFbTEMCTDX
I ordered it from amazon. It is made from fir wood and smells amazing. I am going to paint it with a clear water treatment bc I love the natural color and scent of the wood but want it to last longer. It feels very sturdy so far. Here is the link to it.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005S56JBQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RkDbFbJVTJYW7
Color rendering index is what the CRI is. The higher the number, the more colors that it covers. Just try to get the highest number you can, and you should be fine. I also got the bakers racks on Amazon. They were like $85 each, but they have raised the prices on those too. I just ordered two more sets at $110 each. Ugh.
ETA: I just looked and one set that I bought was only 86. It was here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07QGXSPJ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The tapes are made by 3M and are probably easiest to source from Amazon. Venting tape, foil tape. The base is on the ground. A basic frame of redwood covered in outdoor plywood 4x8 ripped in half and painted.
What scares you the price or the install? I didn't want to but did end up buying it. Shans on Amazon was th best price I found and free delivery. https://www.amazon.com/SHANS-Spring-Wire-Lock-Channel/dp/B07JCZXBJ4?th=1&psc=1
Bought 40 channels and wire for like $240. Haven't I stalled yet buy quality looks good.
You can look in to snap clamps as an alternative. I bought a few, and after buying everything I've seen at least one comment claiming using all snap clamps is better than wiggle wire, and that you can pull the plastic tight through it .. I haven't seen it myself though.
Sun: Nepenthes generally like bright light without much direct sun. About 50% sun or dappled shade is good. Plant lights often work well if they are broad spectrum and are kept just far enough away to prevent overheating or scorching. Thin, spindly plants or poor coloration are a sign of too weak a light.
Light is a key factor in growing healthy orchids. Direct sunlight may cause plants to burn, and too little light will prevent plants from flowering. An ideal location is behind curtains or window blinds. If you receive your plant by mail, expose it to light gradually in stages over a period of several weeks.
You will want purple grow lights (blue + red spectrum), higher wattage for the nepenthese and lower wattage for the orchids. The wattage depends on how many plants you have and how big the grow tents are. You can find them all over Google and Amazon in different prices/sizes/wattage. For a grow tent, you will probably want a light array similar to this that spreads the light around well inside the tent: https://www.amazon.com/Double-Spectrum-Greenhouse-Indoor-Flower/dp/B0185OLBPK/ref=sxin_3_osp48-36a8c5f3_cov?adgrpid=61475560212&ascsubtag=36a8c5f3-ad91-4b5b-baf5-381dd8900eb5&creativeASIN=B0185OLBPK&cv_ct_id=amzn1.osp.36a8c5f3-ad91-4b5...
Depends on how much you want to spend but a simple and easy route is a electric heater with a fan hooked to a thermostats like this
https://www.amazon.com/Lux-Automatic-Programmable-Thermostat-Compatible/dp/B000E7NYY8
Check all the panels to see how well they are sealed and consider heat mates for under the pots to keep the roots from getting to cold. You can also put down normal mats to insulate the cold from the brick floor.
You might want to add a small second fan just to make sure you have a good circulation of air moving and don’t get any cold or hot spots.
Is this the one you mean?
Re: extractor fan, that was exactly what I was thinking. Nice low maintenance thing, no switches or batteries - nice and easy.
Fantastic reply, I'll give the pump and timer a look - thanks a heap!
EDIT: Is there an alternative to double wall poly? It's so very expensive! Also, will the poly I provided in the link work? Or will clear poly heat the greenhouse up too much? I've been told that diffused light is better than using a clear material. Hope that makes sense.
The bayliss ones are decent - there are lots of cheaper options that I haven't tried.
I actually went for the crazy one with the hydraulic dampener as my site is stupidly exposed and regularly gets 50MPH+ winds.
In my greenhouse, I have some automatic window openers that are temperature-triggered. They open when the greenhouse reaches ~75F. They worked well last summer, which was my first summer with a greenhouse.
It's on the bottom left side. Here is the Amazon link. iPower 40-108°F Digital Heat Mat Thermostat Controller for Seed Germination, Reptiles and Brewing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E9IO6N0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FILvCbH72MP6H
Caution, you want to run your space heater on a low to medium setting. The thermostat can't handle anything above 10ampers
What are you growing and what's your heat source?
For such a small greenhouse I'd just pick up an led grow light off Amazon. You can pick one up for under $100
You could also just grab a grow light with a standard Edison base like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Morsen-Spectrum-Indoor-Greenhouse-Hydroponic/dp/B075861YV2
Then just rig up a standard outdoor light bulb socket.
Depends on what your budget is and what you're growing
Get a copy of Building Your Own Greenhouse. It's not going to give you plans and heat loss calcs, but it's a good overview on different types and methods of heating/cooling.
You could easily make one with This for $20, get the enclosure too. It will handle up to 10Amps internally or with an appropriate SSR almost any current. It has a cooling and heating set points. I use them in the greenhouse and my brewery. It will do exactly what you want, but you have to be handy to build it. There are DIYs everywhere though. Look for it with the brewing crowd, your application is the same.
I too had it sit in my cart for quite awhile. I was also VERY skeptical when it arrived. Putting it together was a lot like legos and I would definitely recommend a rubber mallet to help secure the pieces when assembling. The instructions were also rather vague, but once you get it going you'll get the gist. It also holds a lot more weight than I imagined. I have two 7 gallon grow bags with strawberries sitting on the same shelf and it seems to handle it no problem! I put my tomatoes in this and sat it on the ground of the greenhouse against the back and theres still room to step in!
Not sure if this is too small or simple for you but I just installed this in my covered raised flowerbed. I just ran the line across the roof and attached the little orange pieces (misters) every few feet or so, works fantastic.
KORAM IR-D 50 Feet Blank Distribution Tubing Hose Plant Watering Irrigation Drip Kit Accessories Include Atomizing Nozzle Mister Dripper, 1/4-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B013JPIJG4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MmLVAbYWQWHWD
I think it's called Spring Wire and Lock Channel. I have catalogs from a couple places in my area and I think their prices are much cheaper, but here's an Amazon example: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BC4HAPA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_-N2IAbF3219DN