If you're looking to install a greenhouse in your backyard, it can be challenging to know where to begin. That's why we've compiled some of the best tips and tricks that will help make the installation process as easy and enjoyable as possible!
1. Choose Your Location
Before you decide on where you’ll construct your greenhouse, there are three key factors you should take into consideration:
Average Sunlight
Where you choose to place your greenhouse can have a significant impact on the growth of your plants. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that you opt for an area in your yard that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. If you’re unsure of where this may be, it’s a good idea to take a few weeks to monitor where your yard is receiving the most light before beginning construction. For best results, you should avoid areas with large trees or any coverings that may limit the amount of sunlight your greenhouse could receive.
Proximity to Water and Electricity
If you’re planning on using heaters, fans, or other various accessories, it’s important to consider placing your greenhouse nearby a power source. Not to mention, keeping your plants hydrated is essential for a healthy garden. Having a hose or other water source close by will make gardening much more manageable.
Plenty of Space
When considering a location for your greenhouse, you want to make sure you’ll have plenty of room. Try aiming to have 2 meters (about 6.5ft) of space on all sides of the greenhouse. This ensures you’ll have no difficulties opening the doors and that the structure is easily accessible for any additions, replacements, or maintenance.
Customer image of Planta Sungrow 32
2. Make Sure You Have All the Right Tools and Parts
We highly recommend taking some time before assembling your greenhouse to take inventory of all of your parts and ensure you have all the appropriate tools for construction. It wouldn’t be fun to get part way through building your greenhouse to discover you’re missing a screw or you can’t find the tool you need.
Planta greenhouses generally require the following tools for construction:
- Gloves
- Drill
- Tape Measure
- Stanley knife
- Wrench
- Step ladder
- Level tool
This list can vary slightly depending on the model you purchase, so make sure to check your greenhouse manual before getting started.
3. Level Out Your Foundation
Regardless of whether you’re planning on building a base or constructing the greenhouse directly onto the ground – it’s essential to have a level foundation. This ensures your greenhouse will stay secure and upright, preventing it from slanting or being uplifted in the wind.
For more information, read our guide about the different types of greenhouses bases to see what option will work best for you.
Customer images of greenhouse bases & foundations
4. Save the Date
Before beginning construction, you should set aside some time in your schedule. Typically, our smaller residential greenhouses take about 2-3 days to complete assembly, while our larger greenhouses can potentially take a week or longer. For a smooth installation, we suggest setting aside a few consecutive days to minimize the risk of misplacing important tools or parts over time.
5. Use the YouTube Videos
Instruction manuals can be a little technical and complex at times, which is why we’ve created a series of installation videos to assist you throughout the assembly process. We suggest following these videos alongside the manual included with your greenhouse kit for the clearest instructions and best results. Try placing your laptop or phone next to your construction site so you can pause or rewind the video and follow the specific steps in real-time.
But most importantly, have fun! Building a greenhouse is a fantastic bonding activity for you and your family – and the more, the merrier! So make some snacks, play your favourite music, and brainstorm all of the amazing things you’ll grow together in your brand new backyard oasis.
Let us know how it goes in the comments below, or share your pictures with us on Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #PlantaGreenhouse.
Happy Planting!
Customer images from Humminghill Farm
Why Planta Greenhouses?
- Wind resistant up to 65 mph (learn more about how our greenhouses hold up in high-altitude climates).
- Withstands a snow load of up to 98 psf (480kg/square meter).
- Made with a heavy-duty galvanized steel frame.
- Polycarbonate panels provide 100% protection against UV rays.
- The Sungrow greenhouse is bell-shaped - allows the wind, snow, and hail to slide off the sides.
- Extendable (Sungrow, Sigma and Farmer models can be extended beyond 100ft)
- Made in Europe and are exclusively imported
- Maintenance-free