Greenhouses present the perfect gardening environment irrespective of the time of year. But a greenhouse can only be as beneficial to you as your planning and preparation is. You need to have the right foundation for your greenhouse' success by ensuring it is fitted with all required functionality such as water, electricity, ventilation, air conditioning, cooling and heating.

Of all factors however, there is one that plays the biggest part in determining whether your greenhouse will be both efficient and effective - location. While the primary strength of a greenhouse lies in the ability to control climactic conditions inside it, the factors outside and around the greenhouse are also important. These 'location factors' must be taken into consideration before a final decision on the greenhouse site is made.

a. Sunlight - Greenhouses in Northern Hemisphere regions such as Europe and North America should have their south exposed with the top ridge aligned from east to west. This ensures the greenhouse has ample natural lighting. Sunlight is one factor you absolutely must get right so there is no harm engaging a solar architect just to make double sure. Remember that it is not only about getting the most sunlight into the greenhouse but also regulating the sunlight that does go in - too much sunlight would generate heat and damage the plants inside. You need to get just the right angle for optimum sunlight - the average greenhouse requires about 5 hours of sunlight per day. Read More...