Greenhouse Accessories Buying Guide: Everything you need to know
Greenhouse accessories are essential components of any greenhouse and can greatly enhance your gardening experience. Whether you're a novice or experienced grower, there is something for everyone! Accessories come in many shapes and sizes and help to protect plants from wind and pests, control humidity levels, maintain temperatures, provide an environment conducive to flowering, add aesthetic appeal to your garden, and more.
This guide offers comprehensive information on what accessories you may need when setting up a greenhouse as well as considerations on how to choose the right ones. Let's begin by exploring some of the basics about greenhouses and their accessories.
What types of accessories are available for greenhouses?
There is an extensive range of accessories available for greenhouses. Ventilation accessories are important to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in a greenhouse, while shading products help to protect plants from direct sunlight. Other types of accessories include irrigation systems, lighting systems, benches, fans, shelving units, water tanks, potting tables, covers, heaters and thermostats.
What is a fan used for in a greenhouse?
Fans are used to circulate air within the greenhouse and create airflow that helps to keep temperatures at an optimal level. The type of fan you choose will depend on the size of your greenhouse and what kind of climate you live in. Some popular options include wall-mounted fans that can be easily adjusted as needed; oscillating table fans that provide an even distribution of air; and exhaust fans which are typically used to draw in fresh air from outside and expel hot, stale air from the interior.
How can water tanks help with greenhouse gardening?
Water tanks are integral for providing a steady supply of water to your plants. They come in different sizes so that you can choose one that's suitable for the size of your greenhouse. Many also feature built-in filtration systems to ensure clean, healthy water is being provided to your plants. In addition, they can be connected up with irrigation systems, making watering easier and more efficient.
What type of bench should I use in my greenhouse?
Choosing the right bench for your greenhouse will depend on factors such as the size of the space, intended use, and desired aesthetic. Benches can be made from a variety of materials including wood, metal, plastic, or composite. For example, wooden benches are great for traditional-style greenhouses whereas plastic benches are ideal for more contemporary designs.
What types of covers are available for greenhouses?
Greenhouse covers come in many forms to provide protection from the weather and pests. The most common options include cloches – which form individual protective structures over each plant; row covers – which provide a blanket layer over an entire section of plants; shade cloths - which cover large areas to reduce direct sunlight exposure; and insect netting - which forms a barrier to keep bugs out.
What are the benefits of using lighting systems in a greenhouse?
Lighting systems can help to maximize plant growth and provide additional protection from extreme outdoor temperatures. Fluorescent lights, LED lights, and high-intensity discharge (HID) lights are all popular options for greenhouses that don't receive enough natural light. These lights produce different types of light spectrums that plants need for photosynthesis, allowing them to grow stronger and more productive even in winter months when sunlight is scarce.
How do I choose the right heater for my greenhouse?
When selecting the best heater for your greenhouse, consider factors such as size, climate conditions, type of fuel, and budget. Some popular options include electric heaters, propane gas heaters, and oil-fired space heaters. Electric heaters are a great choice for small greenhouses as they require little installation and can be easily adjusted to maintain ideal temperatures. Oil fired space heaters are more energy efficient but may cost more upfront. Propane gas is the best option for larger greenhouses since it produces a consistent level of warmth with minimal effort.
What is the purpose of a thermostat in a greenhouse?
A thermostat helps to regulate the temperature within your greenhouse by switching on or off heating equipment based on pre-programmed settings. This ensures that optimal temperature levels are maintained, which can have a significant impact on the growth and health of your plants. A good thermostat should also be easy to install, program, and use so that you can easily adjust the settings as needed.
What kind of ventilation systems are available for my greenhouse?
Ventilation systems help to keep air circulating within the greenhouse and reduce condensation buildup that can lead to mold or mildew growth. Popular options include ridge vents and mesh windows which allow a steady flow of air without letting in unwanted pests; louvers and roof fans which provide an even distribution of air; and exhaust fans which help to draw in fresh air from outside while expelling hot, stale air from inside.
How do I maintain optimal humidity levels in my greenhouse?
The best way to keep humidity levels at an ideal range is to invest in a dehumidifier. These devices work by extracting moisture from the air and releasing it outside, helping to reduce condensation buildup. Additionally, you should limit how often you water your plants and ensure that the temperature of the greenhouse does not get too high as this can increase evaporation rates. Finally, consider investing in a humidistat which will help to monitor and regulate the amount of moisture present in the atmosphere.
Greenhouses are a great way to grow plants in any climate throughout the year, and there are many elements to consider when setting up and maintaining your own greenhouse. From selecting the right cover and lighting system to ensuring optimal temperatures and humidity levels, it’s important to do your research so that you can create a safe environment that meets the needs of your plants.