Transforming Your Backyard with a DIY Greenhouse: A Comprehensive Guide

Building a greenhouse in your backyard is a fantastic investment for gardeners who wish to extend their growing season and cultivate exotic plants. This article will walk you through the process of constructing a DIY greenhouse, starting from choosing the location to ensuring it is well-established and functional.

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Location for Your Greenhouse

Before building your greenhouse, it's essential to select the right spot. Ideally, place your greenhouse close to your garden shed for easy access to tools and materials. This location ensures that you can move plants and equipment between the two spaces with minimal hassle.

Step 2: Calculating the Size of Your Greenhouse

Decide on the dimensions of your greenhouse based on both the space you have and the plants you plan to grow. For instance, an 8 feet by 10 feet greenhouse would provide sufficient space for a variety of plants, from small seedlings to larger orchids.

Step 3: Purchasing Materials

For a DIY greenhouse, you'll need materials like 2x4s, PVC pipes, and clear plastic sheeting. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-assembled kit, such as the one available from Harbor Freight, which can be more convenient. In my case, I bought a kit and modified it to fit my needs, thanks to its modular design.

Step 4: Assembling the Frame of the Greenhouse

Assembling the greenhouse can be a complex process, much like putting together an erector set. Follow the instructions carefully, and remember that you may need to make some modifications to suit your specific requirements. I successfully built an 8x6 greenhouse and grew hundreds of orchids in it, with most of them thriving.

Step 5: Ensuring a Solid Base for Your Greenhouse

A robust base is crucial for the longevity and stability of your greenhouse. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a solid base:

Material Preparation

You will need concrete, a mix of 1:3:6 cement, sand, and aggregate, to create a strong foundation. The base should be 2-3 inches larger than the greenhouse dimensions. For an 8x6 greenhouse, the base would be 8'6"x6'6".

Excavation and Compaction

Excavate the site until you meet solid ground, aiming for a depth of 10-12 inches. Compact the ground using a roller or vibrating compactor to ensure a stable base.

Ground Preparation

Upfill the excavation to two inches below the finished ground level with hardcore or gravel, and compact it. This step is vital to prevent the greenhouse from settling unevenly.

Services Duct and Insulation

Create a pathway for incoming services such as pipes and cables. Use drain pipes as conduits and position them to allow turning to their final locations. Install a layer of insulation 2-3 inches thick to prevent heat loss.

Concrete Pouring

Spread dry sand over the hardcore and lay a sheet of damp proof membrane, lapped vertically at the plywood. Pour a 4-inch thick layer of concrete, tamping it until perfectly smooth, level, and clean. Cover the site with sacking or similar material to protect it while curing.

Additional Tips for Greenhouse Construction

After constructing the base and placing the greenhouse, consider additional features such as heating, lighting, and a water supply. These elements are crucial for maintaining optimal growing conditions.

Resources for Greenhouse Owners

For more detailed information, read one of the many greenhouse growing books available. They provide invaluable insights and help new owners navigate the complexities of greenhouse maintenance and operation.

Conclusion

With careful planning and construction, your DIY greenhouse can become a valuable addition to your backyard. From selecting the perfect location and calculating the size to ensuring a solid base, this comprehensive guide aims to make the process as straightforward as possible.