Many garden fans and self-sufficient people wish at some point to have their own greenhouse, which shortens the harvest-free time in the winter months to just a few weeks. But for whom is a glass house worthwhile and what size is optimal? We would like to address these and other questions in more detail in the following article.

The right size is crucial when buying a greenhouse

What are the advantages of a greenhouse?

  • Sheltered cultivation of vegetables, even in unstable weather conditions.
  • Plants thrive in glass houses that are normally too cold in our latitudes.
  • Ideal for growing and overwintering plants.
  • Snails and many other types of vermin are rarely found in the greenhouse.
  • In winter, the greenhouse can be used to store garden tools and furniture.

Last but not least, an attractive glass house can definitely replace the conservatory. Since the warming light can enter unhindered, you can sit in the garden when the temperature is pleasant and relax with an unobstructed view of the greenery.

Tips and considerations before purchasing

  • Should only vegetables and herbs be grown or should balcony plants overwinter in the greenhouse?
  • Is there a free, sunny spot in the garden where the house can stand.
  • Should it come from a specialist store or would you like to build it yourself? The dimensions of freely planned greenhouses (77.12€) can be planned flexibly, which can be an advantage.
  • What type of house should it be? Initially just a cheap foil greenhouse or a free-standing greenhouse with a pitched roof. Maybe it should be a pretty round house or a lean-to house that is connected to the residential building? These considerations also affect the price.
  • Which frame construction do you want? This can be made of aluminum, steel, wood or plastic.
  • The roofing, which can be made of single glass, plastic, double-wall sheets or foil, depends on this.
  • Should the greenhouse be tempered all year round by heating or should the ventilation take place automatically?

How much space does the greenhouse need?

Glass houses are already available with a floor space of around 3 square meters, so you don't have to do without the luxury of a greenhouse even in a small garden. If you have enough space available, you should calculate the house at least big enough for you to be able to work comfortably in it with the garden tools.

If you want to cultivate tomatoes and cucumbers under glass for the whole family, the area of the greenhouse should not be less than three by four meters. A ridge height of two meters is optimal in this case.

If possible, plan the size of the glass house with the help of a planting plan in which you draw in all the plants that need to find space in it. If the house is also to be used as a place to relax, don't forget to leave some free space for a small seat.

tips

Most greenhouses do not require a permit. However, there are no uniform regulations throughout Germany. You can find the regulations that apply to your federal state in the state building regulations. Information on this can be obtained from the responsible building authority.

Category:

Garden design