Black and Decker - The Complete Guide To DIY Greenhouses - 2E (2017)

BLACK+DECKER
The Complete Guide to DIY
GREENHOUSES Updated 2nd Edition
Build Your Own Greenhouses, Hoophouses,

Cold Frames & Greenhouse Accessories
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA
2017 Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc. ISBN: 978-1-59186-674-9
Digital edition: 978-0-76035-477-3
First edition published in 2011 as The Complete Guide to Softcover edition: 978-1-59186-674-9
Greenhouses and Garden Projects by Creative Publishing
international. This edition published 2017 by Cool Springs Press, an
imprint of Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc., 400 First Avenue North,
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NOTICE TO READERS
For safety, use caution, care, and good judgment when following the procedures described in this book. The publisher and
BLACK+DECKER cannot assume responsibility for any damage to property or injury to persons as a result of misuse of the
information provided.
The techniques shown in this book are general techniques for various applications. In some instances, additional
techniques not shown in this book may be required. Always follow manufacturers instructions included with products,
since deviating from the directions may void warranties. The projects in this book vary widely as to skill levels required:
some may not be appropriate for all do-it-yourselfers, and some may require professional help.
Consult your local building department for information on building permits, codes, and other laws as they apply to
yourproject.
Contents
11
The Complete Guide to
DIYGreenhouses
Introduction 7
Greenhouses 9
Choosing a Greenhouse 10
Where to Site Your Greenhouse 16
78 Greenhouse Elements 18
Greenhouse Styles 48
Gallery of Greenhouses 54
Greenhouse Projects 67
Custom Victorian Greenhouse 68
DIY Gabled Greenhouse 88
Freestanding Kit Greenhouse 94
PVC Hoophouse 102
Shed-Style Greenhouse 108
101 Sun Porch Kit 122
Low-Maintenance Sunroom 140
Special Section: Upcycled Greenhouses & Cold Frames 149

Where to Start 150
The Materials 151
Upcycled Projects 154
182
Old-Window Greenhouse 156

Old-Window Portable Cold Frame 164
Tree Branch Hoophouse 168
192
Bamboo Trellis 172
Greenhouse Companion Projects 177

Cold Frame Box 178
Jumbo Cold Frame 182
Raised Planting Bed 188
Raised Planting Bed & Cover 192
Seed Starter Rack 198 210
Greenhouse Workbench 202

Built-In Potting Bench 206
Simple Potting Bench 210
High-Low Potting Bench 214
Lettuce Table 218
Trellis Planter 222
Planter with Hanging Trellis 226 232
Solar Produce Dryer 232
Resources/Photo Credits 235

Metric Conversion Charts 236
Index 238
Introduction
A greenhouse may seem like a luxury, because thats exactly what it isan everyday
luxury. It is an extraordinary structure that can, if used correctly, pay for itself. A
greenhouse allows you to grow exactly the ornamentals and edibles you want, rather
than settling for those that you find in local nurseries and home centers. More than that,
the right greenhouse in the right location is a gardeners getaway, a tiny slice of tropical
paradise that makes bitter winter cold disappear (if only for an hour or so) and provides a
lush vacation spot steps from your back door.
Small home hobby greenhouses for the masses pineapples? If the answer to any of these is yes, its
are a relatively recent historical phenomenon; the time to consider which greenhouse is best for you.
evolution of the greenhouse is grounded in the Before taking the plunge, youll need to consider
whims of the wealthy. The first recorded use of the many factors and options that go into setting
hotbeds and cold frames was ensuring Roman up a greenhouse. No worries: weve covered all
emperors had cucumbers in winter. The English those basics in the pages that follow, leading you to
greenhouse culture that is so pervasive in the choices based on what you want to grow and how
United Kingdom today began on the estates of the you want to grow it.
landed gentryaristocrats who wanted fresh citrus Fortunately, a greenhouse need not break
and pineapples without the bother of importing the bank. You can find an entire spectrum of
thosedelicacies. prefabricated types, from zip-up plastic covers over
Ultimately, however, the idea of growing crops hutch-sized metal frames all the way up to house-
out of season or out of locality was far too appealing sized conservatories that can dominate a large
to be confined to the rich. Home gardeners of more property. The range of available prefabricated sizes,
modest means soon adopted simpler greenhouses materials, and technologies ensures that there is
so that they could have fresh vegetables all year a greenhouse for everyoneand if you cant find
round, or get a jump on flowers for their gardens, exactly what you want from a manufacturer, you
and that promise is still what draws home gardeners can build your own. Youll find many wonderful
to greenhouses today. possibilities in the project section of this book.
Wonder if a greenhouse would be right for A greenhouse is even more productive and
you? Ask yourself a few basic questions: Are you rewarding when coupled with features such as seed
ready to start your own flower-bed showoffs rather starter racks, custom workbenches, and cost-saving
than buying flat after flat at the local nursery each graywater systems. You can also supplement the
spring? Would you like the satisfaction and flavor bounty of the greenhouse with structures such as
of growing your own super-healthy greens, fruits, covered raised beds and portable cold frames that
and vegetables? Would you like to experiment with help keep plants warm and protected in garden
crops that normally would not grow in your zone, beds. Youll find a wealth of these greenhouse
including tropical plants like orchids, avocadoes, and complements in the projects section as well.
INTRODUCTION 7
Greenhouses
nter a greenhouse and youve crossed the

E threshold of an extraordinary place. Youre greeted
by a profusion of flowers and the rich textures of
foliage. Sweet fragrances mix with the earthy smell
of soil. Diffused light shines through the misty air. In
the silence, you can almost hear the plants growing.
Traffic rumbles by unnoticed, and the distractions of
the real world seem miles away.
Although the experience is similar from
greenhouse to greenhouse, the structures themselves
are amazingly diverse. They can be large and
complex or small and simple. They can be unheated
or heated, built of glass or covered in plastic. Youll
find greenhouses on city rooftops and tucked into
suburban gardens. No two are identical, even if theyre
constructed from the same kit; the contents of a
greenhouse make it unique. Some house vegetables
(tomatoes and cucumbers), some shelter tropicals
(scheffleras and dieffenbachias), and some are home
to flats of germinating begonias. This section is
focused on leading you through the many variables
among greenhouses. Finding the perfect structure for
you and what you want to grow means making the
right decisions along the way. The sections that follow
will help you do that.
In this chapter:
Choosing a Greenhouse
Where to Site Your Greenhouse
Greenhouse Elements
Greenhouse Styles
Gallery of Greenhouses
GREENHOUSES 9
Choosing a Greenhouse THE COST QUESTION
The cost of a basic freestanding greenhouse can range
from the very economical (plastic sheeting and PVC
reenhouses can take many forms, from simple,
G three-season A-frame structures to elaborate
buildings the size of a small backyard. They can be
hoop frame) to the surprisingly expensive (custom-
designed and built). It all depends on your tastes and
aspirations, and on your budget. The following real-life
custom designed or built from a kit, freestanding samples will give you a sense of the cost variations
or attached, framed in metal or wood, glazed with (remember, though, that prices can vary widely,
depending on features and accessories you choose
plastic or glass. Spend a little time researching online
toinclude):
greenhouse suppliers and youll discover almost
unlimited options. Although its important to choose A 5 5' pop-up mini greenhouse from one mail
a design that appeals to you and complements your order source sold for around $125.
house and yard, youll need to consider many other A small, 6 8' greenhouse with rigid polycarbonate
factors when making a decision. Answering the panels sold for around $400.
following questions will help you determine the type,
A more spacious 8 17' rigid panel kit with
style, and size of greenhouse that suits yourneeds.
motorized windows sold for around $5,000.
The most elaborate polycarbonate kit greenhouses

we found, available by mail order, sold for around
$7,500 for an 1124' structure.
How Will the Greenhouse For a custom-designed and built greenhouse of
Be Used? the same size (11 24'), one homeowner recently
spent $23,000a price that could have been much
higher for a greenhouse designed with ornamental
What do you plan to grow in your greenhouse?
metalwork or stone foundations.
Areyou mostly interested in extending the growing
seasonseeding flats of bedding plants early in A 20 30' hoop kit using plastic sheeting and PVC
the spring and protecting them from frost in the tubing was recently available for around $1,500.
fall? Or do you want to grow flowers and tropical
plantsyear-round?
Your intentions will determine whether you How you plan to use the greenhouse will also
need a heated greenhouse. Unheated greenhouses, determine its size, type, and location. If you only want
which depend solely on solar heat, are used primarily to harden off seedlings or extend the growing season
to advance or extend the growing season of hardy for lettuce plants and geraniums, a small, unheated
and half-hardy plants and vegetables. Although an structure covered with polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
unheated greenhouse offers some frost protection, it sheeting or even a cold framea glass- or plastic-
is useful only during spring, summer, and fall, unless topped box on the groundmight be all you need. If
you live in a warm climate. your intentions are more serious, consider a larger,
A heated greenhouse is far more versatile and more permanent building. A three-season greenhouse
allows you to grow a greater variety of plants. can be placed anywhere on your property and might
By installing equipment for heating, ventilation, even be dismantled in the winter, whereas year-round
shading, and watering, you can provide the perfect use calls for a location near the house, where utilities
environment for tender plants that would never are convenient and you dont have to trek a long way
survive freezingweather. in inclement weather.
10 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

There are many different reasons to choose a given greenhouse. The owner of this yard opted for a traditional crested, aluminum-
framed, glass-enclosed model. The use of clear glass instead of semiopaque plastic allows the greenhouse to be used for meals
and relaxing (thus, the table) as well as growing favorite plants.
GREENHOUSES 11
E
G
B
C
A
Attached to the exterior wall of the house, this lean-to-style greenhouse has all the features for complete growing success:
running water (A); electrical service (B); a heated plant-propagation table (C); a heater (D) for maintaining temperatures on
cold nights; ventilating windows (E) and sunshades (F) for reducing temperatures on hot days; drip irrigation system (G) for
maintaining potted plants; a full-length potting bench (H) with storage space beneath; paved flooring (I) to retain solar heat.

Do I Want a Lean-to or a Freestanding Greenhouse?
Greenhouse styles are divided into two main groups: undesirable direction. In cold climates, they must be
attached lean-tos and freestanding. Lean-tos are protected from heavy snow sliding from the house
attached to the house, the garage, or an outbuilding, roof. Lean-tos are typically smaller than freestanding
usually on a south-facing wall. An attached greenhouses and can be subject to overheating if they
greenhouse has the advantage of gaining heat from arent ventedproperly.
the house. Its also conveniently close to plumbing, Standalone greenhouses can be portable or
heating, and electrical services, which are required to permanent. Its wise to keep that in mind if you
operate a heated greenhouse. anticipate moving in the near future or just arent
Lean-tos come in just as many variations as certain exactly where you want to fit the greenhouse
full-scale freestanding greenhouses do. This means into your existing landscape.
you can find or build a lean-to that suits an end- A freestanding greenhouse can be sited anywhere
or side-wall space and the style of your home. As on the property and is not restricted by the
with greenhouses, lean-tos can be simple enclosed homes design. It can be as large or as small as the
structures meant to be used in three seasons or yard permits. Because all four sides are glazed, it
they can include vent fans, misters, heaters, and the receives maximum exposure to sunlight. However,
other accessories that increase the usefulness of a freestanding structure is more expensive to build
thestructure. and heat, and depending on its size, it may require
On the downside, lean-tos can be restricted a concrete foundation. Utilities must be brought in,
by the homes design. They should be built from and it is not as convenient to access as a lean-to.
materials that complement the existing structure, Because it is more exposed to the elements, it can
and a low-slung roofline or limited exterior wall space require sturdier framing and glazing to withstand
can make them difficult to gracefully incorporate. winds. You can also secure lighter greenhouses with
Siting can be tricky if the only available wall faces an an anchoringsystem.
HEATED GREENHOUSE ENVIRONMENTS

Heated greenhouses can be classified by three temperature categories: cool, warm, and hot. Each of these environments
supports different plants and gardening activities.
Cool Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 45F (7C)

In a cool environment, you can start seeds and propagate cuttings early in the year so they will be ready for planting
in garden beds at the beginning of summer. Unless your climate is mild, however, youll probably need a propagator
to provide a little extra warmth for starting seeds. Vegetables and hardy and half-hardy plants do well in this type of
greenhouse. Although the temperature in a cool greenhouse is suitable for protecting frost-tender plants, their growth
during winter is minimal.
Warm Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 55F (13C)

A warm greenhouse is suitable for propagating plants, raising seedlings, and growing a wide range of plants, including
flowers, fruits, houseplants, and vegetables, even during the coldest months. You can sow tomato seeds in January and
harvest the ripe fruits in June. Though this type of greenhouse provides a highly desirable environment for plants, heating
it can be extremely costly, especially if you live in an area with long, cold winters.
Hot Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 65F (18C)

Only a few serious gardeners will invest in a hot greenhouse because it is prohibitively expensive to heat. This type of
environment is ideal for growing exotic tropical plants, such as orchids, bromeliads, and ferns.
GREENHOUSES 13
How Big Should the Greenhouse Be?
In all likelihood, youll shop for a greenhouse that structure. Many models are available as modules that
fits the hobby category. Larger, estate greenhouses allow additions as your enthusiasm grows.
are categorized as conservatories, while much When choosing a greenhouse, take into account
smaller greenhouses, which are usually portable, are the size of your property. How much space will the
labeledmini. structure consume? Most of the expense comes from
Some experts recommend buying the largest operating the greenhouse, especially during winter.
greenhouse you can afford, but this isnt always The larger the structure, the more expensive it is
the best advice. You dont want to invest in a large toheat.
greenhouse only to discover that youre not up to the Be sure the greenhouse has enough room for
work it involves. you to work. Allow space for benches, shelves, tools,
Of course, buying a greenhouse that is too small pots, watering cans, soil, hoses, sinks, and a pathway
can lead to frustration if your plant collection through the plants. If you want benches on both
outgrows the space. It is also much more difficult to sides, choose a greenhouse that is at least 8 feet wide
control the temperature. One compromise is to buy a by 10feet long. Give yourself enough headroom, and
greenhouse thats one size larger than you originally allow extra height if you are growing tall plants or
planned, or better yet, to invest in an expandable plan to hangbaskets.
How Much Can I Afford to Spend on a Greenhouse?

Your budget will influence the type of structure you Location is important. If you live in a windy area,
choose. A simple hoop greenhouse with a plastic youll need a sturdy structure. Buying a cheaply
cover is inexpensive and easy to build. If youre made greenhouse will not save you money if it fails
handy with tools, you can save money by buying a to protect your plants or blows away in a storm.
kit, but if the greenhouse is large, requires a concrete And cutting costs by using inefficient glazing
foundation, or is built from scratch, you may need to will backfire because youll wind up paying more
hire a contractor, which will add to the cost. forheating.
BUILDING DEPARTMENT QUESTIONS

Local building codes will vary from region to region, but many dictate the type, size, and location of any greenhouse that
may be placed on your property. Codes may also require a certain type of glazingfor instance, they may mandate that
in a structure with glass panes, only tempered glass be used. Thats why its essential to do a little homework before you
commit to buying or building your dream greenhouse. Here are a few basic questions every homeowner should ask his or
her local building department before committing to a specific greenhouse:
What type of foundation is required for a freestanding greenhouse? If compacted gravel is allowed as a foundation,
how deep must the foundation go?
Is there a minimum wind load required? Are anchors required? (Anchors are necessary for lighter greenhouses in
areas that are commonly affected by high winds or extreme weather events.)
What is the snow load per square foot or dead load required on thegreenhouse?
Does the structure need to be code compliant with the International Building Code (IBC) or Universal Building Code
(UBC)? Which year?
Do the building plans have to be site specific?
Does the greenhouse have to be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)compliant?

How Much Time am I Prepared to Invest in a Greenhouse?
You may have big dreams, but do you have the offers many time savers, such as automated watering
commitment to match? Maintaining a successful and ventilation systems, theres no point in owning
greenhouse requires work. Its not hard labor, but your a greenhouse if you dont have time to spend there.
plants depend on you for survival. Although technology Carefully assess your time and energy before you build.
You might save money by choosing a smaller greenhouse, but if you dont have usable room to grow everything you want to grow,
you arent getting real value out of the structure. This beautiful redwood-framed, prefab unit may be a little pricey, but it offers
abundant counter, shelf, and work-surface space as well as quality construction and glazing meant to last decades.
GREENHOUSES 15
Where to Site Your Greenhouse
hen the first orangeries were built, heat was cast by the high summer sun, and during winter,
W thought to be the most important element for
successfully growing plants indoors. Most orangeries
sunlight is particularly important for keeping the
greenhouse warm. If you are not familiar with the
had solid roofs and walls with large windows. Once year-round sunlight patterns on your property,
designers realized that light was more important you may have to do a little geometry to figure out
than heat for plant growth, they began to build where shadows will fall. Your latitude will also
greenhouses from glass. have a bearing on the amount of sunlight available;
All plants need at least 6 (and preferably 12) hours greenhouses at northern latitudes receive fewer
of light a day year-round, so when choosing a site hours of winter sunlight than those located farther
for a greenhouse, you need to consider a number south. You may have to supplement natural light
of variables. Be sure that it is clear of shadows cast with interiorlighting.
by trees, hedges, fences, your house, and other To gain the most sun exposure, the greenhouse
buildings. Dont forget that the shade cast by should be oriented so that its ridge runs east to west
obstacles changes throughout the year. Take note (see illustration, below), with the long sides facing
of the suns position at various times of the year: A north and south. A slightly southwest or southeast
site that receives full sun in the spring and summer exposure is also acceptable, but avoid a northern
can be shaded by nearby trees when the sun is low exposure if youre planning an attached greenhouse;
in winter. Winter shadows are longer than those only shade-lovers will grow there.
The ideal
greenhouse
location is well
away from trees North
but protected
from prevailing
winds, usually by
another structure,
a fence, or a wall. East
West
South

Siting Factors
Several factors influence the decision of where to Access
build your greenhouse. Some pertain to your property, Try to locate your greenhouse as close to the house
some to the structure, and some to your tastes. as possible. Connecting to utilities will be easier, and
youll be glad when youre carrying bags of soil and
Climate, Shelter & Soil Stability supplies from the car. Furthermore, a shorter walk
Your local climate and geography have an impact on will make checking on plants less of a chore when the
the location of your greenhouse. Choose a site that is weather turns ugly.
sheltered from high winds and far enough away from
trees that roots and falling branches are not a threat. Aesthetics
(Try to position the greenhouse away from areas in Although you want to ensure that plants have
which children play, too.) If you live in a windy area, the perfect growing environment, dont ignore
consider planting a hedge or building a fence to aesthetics.The greenhouse should look good
provide a windbreak, but be careful that it doesnt in youryard. Ask yourself whether you want it
cast shade on the greenhouse. Avoid low-lying areas, to be a focal pointto draw the eye and make
which are prone to trapping cold, humid air. a statementor to blend in with the garden.
The site should be level and the soil stable, with Eitherway, try to suit the design and the
good drainage. This is especially important if heavy materialstoyourhome. Keep space inmind,
rains are common in your climate. You might need to too, if you think you might eventually expand
hire a contractor to grade your site. thegreenhouse.
For maximum heat gain, orient

your greenhouse so the roof or
wall with the most surface area
is as close to perpendicular to
the sunrays as it canbe.
GREENHOUSES 17
Greenhouse Elements
t first glance, a greenhouse seems like a very easier to work with, but you must choose the right
A simple structure: some basic framing, a good
amount of glass or plastic, and voila greenhouse.
type to create the ideal microclimate for your plants.
Any plant needs water, and depending on how large
But actually, there is much more to this garden your greenhouse is, you may decide to automate the
addition than meets the eye. watering of your plants or to use misters to create the
In addition to being thoughtfully situated to take proper humidity. Youll also need to figure out how to
advantage of the sun throughout the day and the moderate the heat inside, because the temperature
seasons, any greenhouse must be carefully built to last in a greenhouse can swing by as much as 50 degrees
while still providing an optimal environment for the Fahrenheit over the course of any given day. Ventilation
plants you want to grow. That starts with choosing goes hand in glove with heat, and, of course, youll
the right foundation and making sure the greenhouse probably want some form of lighting so that you can
has an appropriate floor. Not only is the base of a check on or work with your plants after dark.
greenhouse important for its support, but the right These are just some of the factors any greenhouse
floor can also serve as a heat sink, absorbing heat owner needs to consider and resolve. The purpose
during the day and releasing it at night. of this section is to help you make informed choices
In addition, youll need to put a lot of thought into from among the great many options available in order
your greenhouses covering. Glass is traditional, but to create the ideal space for whatever it is you hope to
fragile and expensive. Plastic panels and sheeting are grownot to mention yourself.
A greenhouse
is composed of
several major
systems that
perform important
functions. When
planning your
greenhouse, youll
need to make
choices about
each system,
which include the
foundation, floor,
frame, glazing,
ventilation,
watering,
heat, storage,
andmore.

Foundations
As with a house or any substantial outbuilding, Other cases may call for a base of landscape timbers,
a greenhouse needs an appropriate foundation. concrete footings or piers, or a concrete slab. More
For lightweight kits and smaller greenhouses, this traditional, substantial, and permanent greenhouses
may be a compacted gravel base. Larger, heavier are often built on a kneewall of wood, brick, or stone.
structures will most likely require a more significant This is an option for most types of greenhouses, but
foundation to prevent movement in the underlying the work and expense mean that kneewalls are rarely
soil from damaging the framing or glazing. A used with hobby greenhouses.
foundation should also keep any wood or metal
parts off the ground to prevent premature rot
orcorrosion. KNEEWALLS
If youve purchased a kit greenhouse, the
manufacturer will likely recommend appropriate Kneewalls, sometimes called pony walls, are low walls
foundation options. Regardless of what youre to which a greenhouse frame can be attached. They
can raise a greenhouse to maximize headroom and
building, you should consult your local building
can help to retain heat. However, they also eliminate
department to determine the codes that dictate the
growing space behind the walls and below the benches.
foundation you need to use and whether you need If you only plan to grow potted plants on the benches,
a permit for the foundation, the whole greenhouse, this may not be a problemyou can use the area
orboth. underneath the benches for storage.
Whether youre working from codes or simply
Kneewalls can be built with concrete blocks on a
following best building practices, the foundation
concrete footing, but a more attractive option is to
needs to match the greenhouse. A kit greenhouse
use stone or brick and mortar. To help integrate the
may come with its own metal or fabric base. For greenhouse with your home, build the kneewall from
many types of prefab structures, a crushed gravel materials that complement the exterior of thehouse.
base 4 inches deep or more will serve the purpose.
Earth anchors, or anchor stakes,

areoften used to tie down very
lightweight greenhouses and crop
covers to prevent them from blowing
away. A typical anchor is a long metal
rod with a screw-like auger end that is
driven into the ground. An eye at the
top end is used for securing a cable
or other type of tether attached to
thegreenhouse.
GREENHOUSES 19
Gravel or dirt infill
for greenhouse floor
Grade
10" galvanized spikes

tiecourses together
6 6 or 4 4
timbers
Soil
Compacted gravel base
24" #4 rebar stake
Timber foundations are simple frames made with 4 4, 66, A concrete footing provides a structural base for a large
or larger landscape timbers. The timber frame is laid over a greenhouse or a masonry kneewall. Standard footings are
leveled and compacted gravel base (which can also double continuous and run along the perimeter of the structure.
as the floor or floor subbase for the greenhouse interior) and They must extend below the frost line (the depth to which the
pinned to the ground with rebar stakes. One level, or course, ground can freeze in winter; varies by climate) to prevent frost
of timbers is suitable for small greenhouses, while two courses heave and should be at least twice as wide as the greenhouse
are recommended for larger structures. walls they support.
Welded wire mesh 3"-thick slab
Trench sloped 45
Plywood 8"-thick perimeter

form
#4 bars 4" compacted

gravel
Pier footings are structural concrete columns poured in tube Concrete slabs make great foundations and a nice, cleanable
forms set below the frost linethe same foundation used to floor surface but are overkill for most hobby greenhouses. In
support deck posts. Pier foundations are appropriate for some some areas, it may be permissible to use a floating footing
kit and custom greenhouses and are often used on large that combines a floor slab with a deep footing edge (shown
commercial hoop-style houses. Anchor bolts embedded in the here). Otherwise, slabs must be poured inside of a perimeter
wet concrete provide fastening points for the greenhouse base frost footing, as with garage or basement construction. To
or wall members. prevent water from pooling inside the greenhouse, concrete
slabs must slope toward a central floor draina job for a
concrete pro, not to mention a plumber to install the drain
and underground piping.

Floors
Even if your greenhouse is small or temporary, a from the upper layers. From there, the simplest floors
dirt floor is often a bad idea. Watering of plants can be made with any type of suitable gravel, such as
and even condensation can lead to a muddy mess pea gravel or trap rock.
that invites weeds, disease, and pests. There are Brick and concrete patio pavers are other great
plenty of inexpensive options for greenhouse options and offer a more finished look and feel
floors, all of which are easy to install yourself. In over gravel floors. Pavers are laid over a 1- to 2-inch
general, any water-permeable surface that works layer of sand and should be surrounded by a border
for a patio or walkway will make a good floor for ( foundation timbers or patio edging will suffice) to
agreenhouse. keep them from drifting. Once the pavers are set, you
For long-term stability, improved drainage, and a can sweep sand over the surface to fill the cracks
level floor surface, its wise to support any greenhouse and lock the units in place. Another floor option
floor with a 4- to 6-inch subbase of compacted gravel. flagstoneis installed in much the same way. Keep
Cover the subbase with commercial-quality landscape in mind that any stone or concrete surface will also
fabric (not plastic; the fabric must be water-permeable) serve as a heat sink. This, alone, can be a good reason
to inhibit weed growth and to separate the gravel base to add a stone floor to your greenhouse.
A poured concrete floor is stable and washable, and requires Concrete pavers set in sand offer a longlasting, stable
no routine maintenance. floorcovering that breathes and allows for good drainage.
Pea gravel Crushed stone
Pathway gravel is the easiest and cheapest flooring to install. Pea gravel, trap rock, and some river stones are good for both
drainage and cleanliness. Highly compactible materials, such as decomposed granite, remain solid and level underfoot but
leave a lot of grit on your shoes (if thats a concern). In any case, choose a material thats comfortable to walk on; loose or large
gravel or stones can be unstable.
GREENHOUSES 21
Framing Materials
Wood and aluminum remain the most popular
framing materials for hobby greenhouses, but they are
far from the only options. Steel is popular for larger,
more complex structures, and PVC is commonly
used for more simple and portable greenhouses
andhoophouses.
Every framing option has advantages and
disadvantages, which is why its essential that you
choose the best framing material for your needs both
now and in the future. The key is to balance durability,
weight, expense, and, of course, appearance to find
just the right framing. Looking at the tradeoffs entails
considering local weather conditions (do you need
a high snow or wind load tolerance?), the gardening
you intend on doing (do want to hang baskets in
the greenhouse?), and the look that most appeals
to you (do you want the greenhouse to blend in or
standout?).
A pine frame with plastic glazing. This is a good option for a
Wood lightweight and inexpensive greenhouse that will be used for
Advantages: Wood is often selected for custom two or three seasons during the year.
greenhouse framing because of the many beautiful
species available. The bonus with a wood frame is Choose redwood
that it wont conduct heat as quickly as metal or for a greenhouse
plastic and will be less likely to shed potentially frame that will last
harmful condensation. It is also long lasting and years and provide
an incomparable
durable. These qualities come at a higher cost than appearance to
that of other materials, but the price tag also buys thestructure.
an extremely beautiful greenhouse structure. Some
of the best woods for greenhouses are cedar and
redwood, because both are naturally resistant to
rot and insects and age well, whether finished or
unfinished. Hardwoods also offer these benefits, but
the cost is usually prohibitive for a hobby greenhouse.
The practical choice for a utilitarian greenhouse is
pressure-treated wood. In either case, wood is a wise
choice if you are planning on hanging baskets or
accessories from the framing, or if you intend to put
up shelving.
Disadvantages: Wood framing is heavy and
usually requires regular maintenance. Because its Aluminum
necessarily bulkier than other options, wood also Advantages: The foremost advantage of aluminum
casts more of a shadow on greenhouse plants. Rot is that it is low maintenance. It is also strong
is a potential problem, especially as the wood ages, and lightweight, lasts longer than wood, and can
and many types of woods will ultimately be attacked easily accommodate different glazing systems and
by insectssomething that is never a problem with connectors. Aluminum is used in many greenhouse
plastic or metal. Youll also pay a higher cost for the kits and can be powder-coated or anodized in various
frame than you would if you had used other materials, colors (although the most common are white, black,
especially if you choose the beauty of redwood. and green). Aluminum greenhouse kits are typically

easy to assemble and come with predrilled holes Disadvantages: Because aluminum loses heat
for attachments, connections, and fixtures. Some more rapidly than wood does, this type of greenhouse is
manufacturers offer thermally broken aluminum more expensive to heat. In addition, cheaper aluminum
frames, which are made by sandwiching a thermal frames can be too flimsy to withstand high winds or
barrier between two layers of extruded aluminum to heavy snow loads. The material can also exacerbate
decrease heat loss through the frame. condensation problems inside thegreenhouse.
Galvanized Steel
Advantages: Galvanized steel frames are most often
used for commercial greenhouses because the material
is incredibly sturdy, strong, and durable. It can stand up
to severe weather and resists corrosion and fatigue.
Disadvantages: This type of framing is some
of the heaviest, and framing a hobby greenhouse in
galvanized steel will be extremely expensive both to
ship and to build. If bumped and scratched, it can be
subject to rusting in the scratches, making it better
suited to a large structure for which the frame itself
wont be buffeted. The protective coating will also
wear off with age.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Advantages: PVC tubes are used in less expensive kits
for hoophouses and greenhouses. The tubes make for
a very low-cost frame that is durable and lightweight.
The material does not rot and is entirely resistant
This simple kit greenhouse includes a basic aluminum frame
to insects. It is also easy to clean, and although not
with durable polycarbonate framing.
distinctive in appearance, it looks neat and tidy. PVC
frames are usually used in greenhouses meant to be
portable and for beginner or intermediate gardeners.
Disadvantages: High winds, heavy snow loads,
and other extreme weather can damage PVC frames.
Bright sun also takes its toll, making PVC framing
brittle over time. It cannot be used with glassthe
frames are restricted to bendable polycarbonate
panels or plastic sheeting.
An upscale example of a handsome prefab, aluminum-framed

greenhouse. The crest and finial are finished in long-lasting
baked enamel. A crest like this, as well as adding flair to the
greenhouses look, also keeps birds from perching on the A simple hoophouse frame like this is easy to assemble and
ridgewhich in turn keeps the panels cleaner. doesnt require a serious investment in money or expertise.
GREENHOUSES 23
Greenhouse Glazing Materials
There are basically two types of greenhouse coverings: Disadvantages: Uninsulated single-pane glass
glass and plastic. The ideal glazing lets in the is very inefficient at retaining heat. Glass is also
maximum amount of light and lets out the minimum extremely breakablechildren, tree branches, and
amount of heat. But theres more to any greenhouse hail are all threats to a glass greenhouse. For safety,
covering than simply how much sunlight gets tempered glass is recommended for greenhouses
through. For instance, if youre growing plants that are because it shatters when broken, creating small,
sensitive to light overexposure and burning, you may rounded fragments, rather than sharp, jagged shards.
want to opt for an opaque glazing that not only lets Glass is also heavy, requiring a strong supporting
less light through but also diffuses the light so that it framework that wont flex under stress. Direct
doesnt concentrate on plant surfaces. sunlight passing through glass is so strong it may
Different materials have different lifespans. Where burn some plants. Lastly, unlike some synthetic
glass will last as long as the garden does as long as it materials and products, glass panes cannot bend to
isnt accidentally broken, polyethylene film is likely to accommodate curved shapes, such as a hoophouse or
become brittle and fogged after a few years. A good Gothic arch greenhouse.
indicator of how long any given material will last is
the warranty the manufacturer offers on the panels, Fiberglass
sheets, or rolls of the material. Advantages: Manufacturers have vastly improved
fiberglass panel formulation since the material first
Glass debuted as a potential substitute for glass panels in
Advantages: Glass is the traditional material used homes and outbuildings. Modern fiberglass panels
for greenhouse glazing, and it remains popular today are UV resistant and formulated to resist yellowing
for good reason. If undamaged, the material will last under prolonged sun exposurea key problem
forever. It offers some of the best light transmission in early panels. This material transmits almost as
among glazing materials, doesnt degrade under long much light as glass does, but also diffuses that light.
exposure to UV radiation, and is exceedingly easy Fiberglass also provides much better heat retention
to clean. It boasts surprising tensile strengthin a than glass. The best panels now come with 15- or
frame, it can hold up to a lot of stress and wind load. 20-yearwarranties.
Although single-pane glazing has poor insulating Disadvantages: The surface of fiberglass panels
properties, the R-value can easily be raised by is rough and captures dirt, requiring more frequent
purchasing double- or even triple-pane glazing. cleanings than other types of glazing. Fiberglass
Fiberglass panels
come in clear,
white, and colored
varieties, such as
the green shown here.
This stunning redwood greenhouse combines the best of both The ridged panels can be
worldsthe beauty and view through clear glass windows challenging to install, so manufacturers supply wavy nailing
on all walls and frosted polycarbonate panels on the roof to strips (called closure strips) that make installation as easy
diffuse light. as nailing flat panels.

panels can also, under certain main drawback to these panels is the high price. They are somewhat hard to
circumstances, experience excess clean, because certain mass-market glass cleaners can damage the material.
condensation that can lead to
plant disease and overwatering. Polyethylene & PVC
Dirt and debris can collect in the Advantages: Greenhouse sheet coveringsprimarily polyethylene
valleys of panel ridges. Inexpensive plastic, but also including some PVC productsare inexpensive, easy
fiberglass panels will degrade and to work with, incredibly lightweight, and adaptable to unusual shapes.
deteriorate much more quickly They come in different thicknesses, with thicker sheet products slightly
than high-quality versions do. better at retaining heat without much loss in light transmission. These
products usually come in white (although you can buy clear), which
Acrylic (Plexiglas) ensures that transmitted light is diffused and wont burn plant leaves.
Advantages: Acrylic panels offer The sheeting can be doubled up, which cuts down significantly on light
excellent light transmission, transmission, or layers can be attached to both the outside and the inside
similar to glass, but in a lighter of a structure, for improved heat retention.
material that is incredibly durable Disadvantages: Polyethylene sheeting does not retain heat well and
and impact resistant. The material will deteriorate under prolonged sun exposure. The material is prone to
is also UV resistant and can be rips during installation and can become brittle and yellowed in as little as
molded into unusual shapes. two years.
Acrylic is less expensive than
polycarbonate, and is easy drill,
cut, or shape. It can also be coated
to reduce condensation.
Disadvantages: Acrylic
has never caught on for use in
hobby greenhouses because
less-expensive versions have a
tendency to yellow with age, Double-wall Double-wall
clear polycarbonate. white polycarbonate.
and uncoated acrylic is prone to
condensation in the temperature
extremes of a greenhouse. Triple-wall
polycarbonate.
Polycarbonate
Advantages: Polycarbonate
panels are light, strong, and shatter GREENHOUSE GLAZING CHARACTERISTICS*
resistant. Multiwall versions retain GLAZING LIGHT TRANSMISSION** R-VALUE STRUCTURAL STRENGTH
heat far better than glass does;
Single-Pane Glass 95% .9 High
the panels are available in basic
corrugated form, but the more Double-Pane Glass 90% 2 High
prevalent types of panels are Double Pane Low E Glass 70% 3.3 High
multiwalled. Manufacturers offer
panels with between two and five Polyethylene Film (6-mil) 85% .87 Low
wallsthe more walls, the greater Fiberglass panel 92% .9 Medium

the heat retention and the lower
Polycarbonate 2-wall (6-mil) 82% 1.6 Medium
the light transmission. The panels
also come in clear and white Polycarbonate 3-wall (8-mil) 76% 2 Medium
varieties for greater light diffusion. Polycarbonate 4-wall (6-mil) 76% 1.8 Medium
The material is tough and durable;
Polycarbonate 5-wall 62% 3 Medium
warranties typically run 10 to
15years for quality polycarbonate. *Its important to note that between different manufacturers the same products will vary in light
It is also very easy to work with transmission and R-value. The numbers here should be considered for comparison purposes.
and difficult to break. **Light transmission will be lower in colored or white panels or film. The variation can be from 90% for
Disadvantages: Although clear down to 60% for green in the samematerial.
polycarbonate scratches easily, the
GREENHOUSES 25
Water
All greenhouses need some kind of water supply
system. This can be as simple as a hose connected
to the nearest outdoor spigot or as complex as a
frost-proof underground line extending from your
basement to a special hydrant in the greenhouse.
The latter is obviously more convenient, and the
system can operate year-round. Its also a pretty
big job that usually requires a plumber to make the
final connections. A somewhat easier alternative
is to install a shallow underground water line
that you drain at the end of the growing season,
similar to the supply line for a sprinkler system. Or,
A rain barrel can provide a ready supply of water for your
if your water demands are not too great and your greenhouse. Its an easy water supply option, but it lacks the
greenhouse is located near your house, maintain a convenience of linking the greenhouse to your houses water
rain barrelnearby. supply system.
AN ALL-SEASON WATER SUPPLY

A dedicated all-season water line is the ultimate setup for any freestanding greenhouse. To prevent the line from
freezing during winter, the entire buried portion of the water line must be laid 6" below the frost line in your area. In
the greenhouse, the water comes up through a freeze-proof yard hydrant (commonly used on farms), which drains
itself of residual water each time it is shut off. The water drains into a gravel pit (installed per local code and the
hydrantmanufacturer).
In a typical installation, the supply line connects to a cold-water pipe in the house and includes a shutoff valve and
backflow preventer (vacuum breaker). The line passes through the foundation wall (where its protected by a sleeve of
rigid pipe) at the burial depth, then runs underground to the hydrant. For most applications, flexible PE (polyethylene)
tubing is the best all-around option for the buried portion of the supply line. As always, all connections and devices must
follow local coderequirements.

T-fitting with plug
Elbow
Valve box shown cutaway
A seasonal water supply line is similar to an all-season setup but somewhat easier to install and is just as convenient for
everyday use. The supply line connects to a cold-water pipe inside the house and runs through an exterior wall above the
foundation, then down into a trench (left photo). At the house-end of the trench, the initial supply run connects to the
underground line (typically PE tubing) inside a valve box. The box provides easy access to a T-fitting necessary for freeze-
proofing the line each fall. The supply run is buried in a 10"-deep trench (or per local code) and connects to copper tubing and
a standard garden spigot inside the greenhouse.
Winterize a seasonal supply line using a shutoff valve with an A greenhouse with a water supply of any sort should also have
air nipple. With the valve closed and the greenhouse spigot a drain. A dry well can be made with an old trash can or other
open, blow compressed air (50 psi max.) into the line to container perforated with holes and filled with coarse rock.
remove any water in the tubing. Then, remove the plug from The well sits in a pit about 2' in diameter by about 3' deep
the T-fitting inside the valve box (photo top right) and store it and is covered with landscape fabric and soil. Dry wells are
for the winter. for draining graywater onlyno animal waste, food scraps, or
hazardous materials.
GREENHOUSES 27
Watering & Misting Systems
If your greenhouse is fairly small and you enjoy Overhead-sprinkler systems are attached to the
tending plants dailypinching off a spent bloom here, main water supply and use sprinkler nozzles connected
propping up a leaning stem thereyou might enjoy to PVC pipes installed above the benches. The system
watering by hand, either with a watering can (which usually includes a water filter, which prevents the
is laborious, no matter how small the greenhouse) or nozzles from clogging, and a pressure regulator. Set
with a wand attachment on a hose. Hand-watering the system to water in the morning and during the
helps you to pay close attention to plants and cater hottest part of the day. Avoid watering late in the day
to their individual needs. Youll quickly notice signs of so the plants will be dry before nightfall, when the
over- or under-watering and can adjust accordingly. temperature drops and dampness can causedisease.
However, hand-watering isnt always practical. Drip-irrigation systems use drip emitters to water
That's why many greenhouse gardeners use an plants a drop at a time, when moisture is needed.
automatic system such as overhead sprinkling and Each plant has an emitter attached to feeder lines that
drip irrigation. This approach is convenient, especially connect to a drip line of PVC tubing or pipe. Unlike
when youre not at home. Greenhouse suppliers sell overhead sprinklers, drip irrigation ensures that the
kits as well as individual parts for automated watering plant leaves stay dry. It also helps to conserve water.
systems. Be sure your system includes a timer that If you prefer to water plants from underneath,
can be set to deliver water at specific times of the day, consider capillary mats. These feltlike mats are placed
for a set duration, and on specific days of the week. on top of the bench (which is first lined with plastic)
You can also incorporate water heaters and fertilizer and under the plants, with one end of the mat set
injectors into your system. into a reservoir attached to the bench. The reservoir
This automatic drip-watering system is fed by a garden hose that connects to the mixing tank. In the tank, water and fertilizer are
blended to a custom ratio and then distributed to plants at an adjustable rate via a network of hoses, drip pins, andY-connectors.
NOTE: The spiral trellis supports hanging from the greenhouse roof are not part of the watering system.

Misting is a very gentle method of providing moisture to plants. Misting heads mounted on spray poles (inset) can be controlled
manually or automatically. In addition to maintaining a constant state of moistness for plants, a misting system will give your
greenhouse a tropical environment that many gardeners enjoy.
ensures that the mat is constantly moist. Moisture of about 50 percent to 65 percent are idealand
from the mat is drawn up into the soil and to the dramatically decreases the temperature by as much
plant roots when the soil is drying out. Unlike drip as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Misting systems are
irrigation and overhead sprinkling, capillary-mat available through greenhouse suppliers. You can buy a
watering systems do not require electricity, pipes, or complete system, which may include nozzles, tubing,
tubing. However, unless they are treated, the mats will PVC pipe, a humidistat, and sometimes a hard-water
need regular cleaning to prevent mildew and bacteria filter and a pressure gauge. Or you can buy the parts
buildup. To ensure that the system works properly, its separately to create a customized system. The size of
important that the bench be level. the greenhouse will determine the size of the system.
Regardless of the watering system you choose, Larger greenhouses need more nozzles and in turn
use lukewarm water. Cold water can shock the roots, more tubing and pipe.
especially if the soil is warm. If youre hand-watering, Humidistats can automatically turn on misters
let the water sit in the greenhouse so it warms up and humidifiers when the humidity drops below a
to ambient temperature. (Keep it out of the sun, set level. You might also want to invest in a device to
thoughyou dont want it to get too hot). Wand boost the water pressure. Higher pressure produces
watering and automatic systems can benefit from an a finer mist, which cools more quickly. Suppliers
installed water heater. recommend placing the nozzles about 2 feet apart
around the perimeter of the greenhouse, between the
Misting wall and the benches. Place the nozzles underneath
When the temperature inside the greenhouse rises the benches so the mist doesnt drench the plants.
and the vents open, they release humidity. Misting As with watering, avoid misting late in the day. Wet
increases humidity, which most plants lovelevels leaves and cold, humid air can encourage disease.
GREENHOUSES 29
Lighting
The most basic greenhouses use only the sunlight The three types of light bulbs used in greenhouses
nature provides to grow plants in a warmer are incandescent bulbs, fluorescent tubes, and
environment than the plants would experience high-intensity discharge (HID) lights, which include
outdoors, but a greenhouse can be much more than metal halide (MH) or high-pressure sodium (HPS).
that. If youre willing and able to run power to the Each has advantages and disadvantages, which is
structureor if its connected to your homeyou can why greenhouse gardeners often use a combination of
add lights that will not only extend growing days and two or more types to achieve light that is as close to
growing seasons but will also allow you to care for natural aspossible.
your plants after dark. In fact, supplemental artificial
lighting is key to turning a two- or three-season Incandescent
greenhouse into a four-season garden structure. Ordinary tungsten incandescent bulbs are
Supplementing natural light with artificial inexpensive, readily available, and a good source of
light can be tricky. Natural light is made up of a red rays, but they are deficient in blue light. They can
spectrum of colors that you can see (the red, orange, be useful for extending daylight for some plants and
yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet colors of the for supplementing low light levels, but they are not an
rainbow) and those you cant see (infrared and efficient primary source of light. Incandescent lights
ultraviolet). Plants absorb light from the red and produce a lot of heathanging them too close to
blue ends of the spectrumblue light promotes plants can burn foliage, but if you hang them at a safe
plant growth; light from the red end of the spectrum distance, they dont provide enough intensity for plant
encourages flowering and budding. The red-blue light growth. The average life span of an incandescent bulb
combination is easily achieved when the source is is about 1,000 hours.
the sun but a little more difficult when youre using
artificial lighting. Intensity is also important: Lights Fluorescent
that are set too far away or that dont provide enough Fluorescent tubes are more expensive than
brightness (measured in lumens or foot-candles) will incandescent bulbs, but the higher cost is amply
produce weak, spindly plants. offset by their longevity and efficiency: bulb life for
The right lighting

in a greenhouse
increases the
number of hours
you can work in
the structure each
day and expands
the growing
season and
growing hours
ofplants.

Fluorescent is a better source of growth-stimulating light for Ordinary incandescent lights arent particulary good sources of
your greenhouse. It must, however, be hung relatively close to growth-promoting light, but they can help heat a greenhouse.
plants in order to spur growth. And their attractive warm light also turns a greenhouse into a
nighttime landscape design feature.
fluorescents is about 10,000 hours, and they provide Novice growers tend to use metal halide lights if
the same amount of light as incandescents with only theyre using grow lights at all. But more experienced
one-quarter to one-third the amount of energy. They greenhouse gardeners, and those who grow
also produce much less heat than incandescentbulbs. throughout the year, may use a combination: MH lights
Fluorescent bulbs (or lamps, as theyre called by to start plants off and encourage early growth and
the lighting industry) come in a variety of colors and bushiness, then switching to HPS as the plants mature,
temperature ranges, including full-spectrum light. Cool because HPS light encourages flowering and fruiting.
white lamps, which produce orange, yellow-green, blue, In fact, although most fixtures do not allow for bulbs to
and a little red light, are the most popular choice. To be interchanged, convertible fixtures are available that
provide seedlings and plants with a nearly full spectrum do allow the gardener to switch between bulbs.
of light, many growers combine one cool white lamp HID lights of both types are very expensive, but
and one soft (or warm) white lamp in the same fixture. they last a long, long time. A standard 400-watt HID
Due to their energy efficiency and low heat output, bulb can provide 20,000 hours of lighting. These bulbs
fluorescent-tube fixtures are great for ambient lights also light a large area: that single bulb will provide
that you might leave running for long periods, as well enough light for 16 square feet of plants. HID lights
as for task lighting. Theyre also the best all-around do, however, produce a good amount of heat. Hang
choice for starting seedlings and growing small plants. them high in the greenhouse, and provide plenty of
The downside to using fluorescents as grow lights is ventilation in warmer months.
that they must be hung very close to the plantfrom
2 to 8 inches, depending on the plantto be effective. LED Grow Lights
This makes them most useful for propagation and As lighting technology continues to evolve, light-
low-growing plants. emitting diodes (LEDs) are growing in popularity
and use. Manufacturers have developed special LED
HID grow lights that include both blue and red light waves,
High-intensity discharge (HID) lights work by sending effectively serving all the needs of plantsfrom initial
an electrical charge through a pressurized gas tube. growth through mature budding, flowering, and
There are two types: high-pressure sodium (HPS), fruiting. The big bonus of these bulbs is that they last
which produces light in a narrow yellow-orange- almost as long as HID lights do but cost a fraction of
red band, and metal halide (MH), which produces the price. The lights can be used with conventional
a broader range of light waves but tends to be more fixtures and provide wide, diffuse illumination that
toward the white-blue-violet end of the spectrum. prevents the light from ever burning plant leaves.
GREENHOUSES 31
Heating
Novice greenhouse gardeners can gain knowledge be sure the fan doesnt blow warm air directly on the
and extend their growing season with a basic lean- plant leaves; they may scorch.
to or tiny kit greenhouse. But if youre going to take Gas heaters usually cost more than electric and
advantage of the full potential inherent in greenhouse most areas require that a licensed professional hook
gardening, youll need to heat the greenhouse. There them up, but heating bills will be lower than if you
are several ways to do that. Some techniques, such as use an electric heater. Gas heaters operate much like
using a heat sink, are usually meant as a complement a furnace: a thermostat turns on the heat when the
to a main heat source. In any case, the most common temperature drops below its setting. You can help to
and simplest way to heat your greenhouse is with a distribute the heat by using a fan with the heater. If
heater. The two main types are electric and fuel fired you plan to use a gas heater, install the gas line when
(gas, propane, kerosene, or oil). youre building the foundation. It is also important to
Electric heaters are inexpensive and easy to install. ensure that the heater is vented to the outside and that
They provide adequate heat for a small greenhouse in fresh air is available for combustion. Poor ventilation
a temperate climate and are useful for three-season can cause dangerous carbon-monoxidebuildup.
greenhouses. However, they are expensive to operate Propane, oil, and kerosene heaters also need to be
(although relative costs are constantly changing) and vented, and if youre using kerosene, be sure its high-
do not provide sufficient heat for use in cold regions. grade. Another option is hot-water heating, in which
Electric units can also distribute heat unevenly, the water circulates through pipes set around the
making it too warm in some areas of the greenhouse perimeter of the greenhouse under the benches. You
and too cold in others. Placing a heater at each end of can also consider overhead infrared heat lamps and
the greenhouse can help. If you use an electric heater, soil-heating cables as sources of heat.
In most climates, an electric heater with an automatic A portable space heater may be all the supplemental heat
thermostat will be sufficient to protect tender plants on cold your greenhouse requires. Use it with caution, and make sure
nights. Electricity is an expensive heating option, however, so yours shuts off automatically if it overheats or is knocked over.
its best reserved for moderate heating needs.

Calculating Heat Needs
Heat is measured in British thermal units (Btu), the greenhouse and adding up the totals. Heres an
amount of heat required to raise one pound of water example, using 380 square feet for the greenhouse
1 degree Fahrenheit. To determine how many Btu of area and 45 degrees Fahrenheit as the difference
heat output are required for your greenhouse, use the between the coldest nighttime temperature
following formula. (10degrees Fahrenheit) and the desired nighttime
Area (the total square footage of the greenhouse greenhouse temperature (55 degrees Fahrenheit).
panels) difference (the difference between the 380squarefeet451.1= 18,810Btu.
coldest nighttime temperature in your area and the If the greenhouse is insulated or uses double-
minimum nighttime temperature required by your glazed glass or twin-wall polycarbonate, you can
plants) 1.1 (the heat-loss factor of the glazing; deduct 30 percent from the total Btu required; if its
1.1isan average) equals Btu. triple-glazed, deduct 50 percent. You can deduct as
Calculate the area by multiplying the length much as 60 percent if the greenhouse is double-glazed
by the height of each wall and roof panel in the and attached to a house wall.
HEATING REQUIREMENTS
Heaters must be equipped with an automatic shut-offswitch.
Position several thermometers at bench level throughout the greenhouse so you can check that heat is
evenlydistributed.
Do not place thermometers or thermostats in directsunlight.
Install an alarm to warn you if the temperature drops dangerously low. Set the temperature warning high enough to
give you time to remedy the problem before plants die.
Use a backup generator to supply power to electric heaters during power outages.
Oil, gas, kerosene,

and other fuel-
operated heaters
must be vented to
the outside and have
a source of fresh air
forcombustion.
GREENHOUSES 33
Conserving Heat
On cold, cloudy days and at night, solar heat is lost. the greenhouse from the outside. Plant low-growing
Even if you have supplemental heating, holding onto plants around the foundation, or prop hay bales or
that heat is essential to maintaining an optimal burlap bags filled with dry leaves against the walls.
climate. Insulating the greenhouse and making use of
heat sinks are the most effective means of conserving Heat Sinks
heat, but dont overlook heat thieves such as cracks Heat sinks absorb solar energy during the day and
and gaps. Be sure the glazing is tight, and seal any radiate it back into the greenhouse at night. Stone,
opening that lets in cold air. tile, and brick floors and walls are good collectors
If you built a concrete foundation, it may have of heat, but to be really effective, they should be
polystyrene board installed between the concrete insulated from underneath. Piles of rocks can act
and the soil. Concrete rapidly loses heat if the ground as heat sink, but the best option is a blue- or black-
around it is cold, and polystyrene insulation helps painted barrel or drum full of water. Place a few of
to reduce this heat loss. You can use polystyrene them around the greenhouse. If you have an attached
board or bubble insulation (similar to bubble wrap greenhouse, painting the house wall a dark color can
used for shipping) to temporarily insulate the walls cause it to radiate solar heat back into the greenhouse
of the greenhouse. Simply attach the material to the at night. A light-colored wall, on the other hand, can
greenhouse frame beneath the benches before winter help reflect heat and light back into the greenhouse
and remove it in the summer. You can also insulate during the day.
This heat sink

system uses solar
energy to heat
the greenhouse.
Air heated by the
sun is drawn in
by the fan and
blown into the
rock pile, which
also absorbs solar
heat. Heat is
radiated back into
the greenhouse
after the sun
goesdown.

SMART HEAT CONSERVATION
Reduce the temperature by 5. Growth may be slowed, but plants will survive.
Make sure the greenhouse is as airtight as possible.
To prevent drafts, add a storm door.
Mulch the soil in raised benches to insulate it during cool seasons. Consider watering tropical foliage plants and other
warm-season plants with water warmed to 65F.
Insulate all water- or steam-heating supply lines.
At night, hang black cloth horizontally from the greenhouse ceiling as close to the plants and benches as possible to
prevent the warm air from escaping through the roof.
If the greenhouse uses automatic vents that are controlled by a separate thermostat, set that thermostat 5 or 10
higher than the heater thermostat to keep the vents from opening when the heat is on.
Install an alarm system that will go off when the temperature goes above or below the safe range or when there is a
power failure.
Make use of the heat exhausted by your clothes dryer by running the vent into your greenhouse.
Plant a shelter belt of evergreens on the windward side of the greenhouse to reduce heating costs. (But be sure it is
far enough away that it doesnt cast shade on the greenhouse.)
MICROCLIMATES
When you landscape your property, you consider its microclimates: the sunny, sheltered corner; the cool, shady spot
beneath the trees; that strip along the back that always catches the breeze. Your greenhouse has microclimates, too. Its
warmer near the roof and cooler at floor level; some spots are shaded and others receive strong, direct light; and down
near the wall vents, its cool and breezy. Like the plants in a garden, greenhouse plants have differing light, heat, soil,
and moisture requirements. Before you place them in the greenhouse, take stock of the microclimates, and group plants
according to theirneeds.
A heating and cooling thermostat

isperhaps the most important
greenhouse control device. The
thermostat will control heat sources
and automatic ventilaters to cool
the greenhouse when temperatures
climb into the danger zone for
overheatingplants.
GREENHOUSES 35
Ventilation
Whether your plants thrive depends on how well heat if you are away. Its far easierand saferto use
you control their environment. Adequate sunlight automatic vent openers. These can be thermostat-
is a good start, but ventilation is just as important. controlled and operated by a motor, which turns on
It expels hot air, reduces humidity, and provides air at a set temperature, or they can be solar-powered.
circulation, which is essential even during winter to Unlike thermostat-controlled vent openers, which
move cold, stagnant air around, keep diseases at bay, require electricity, solar-powered openers use a
and avoid condensation problems. You have two main cylinder filled with wax, which expands as the
options for greenhouse ventilation: vents and fans. temperature rises and pushes a rod that opens the
Because hot air rises, roof vents are the most vent. When the temperature drops, the wax shrinks
common choice. They should be staggered on both and the vent closes. How far the vent opens is
sides of the ridgeline to allow a gentle, even exchange dictated by temperature: the higher the temperature,
of air and proper circulation. Roof vents are often the wider the vent opens to let in more air.
used in conjunction with wall vents or louvers. A fan ventilator is a good idea if you have a large
Opening the wall vents results in a more aggressive air greenhouse. The fan is installed in the back opposite
exchange and cools the greenhouse much faster than the greenhouse door, and a louvered vent is set into
using roof vents alone. On hot days, you can open the the door wall. At a set temperature, a thermostat
greenhouse door to let more air inside. Also consider mounted in the middle of the greenhouse activates
running small fans to enhance circulation. the fan, and the louvered vent opens. Cool air is drawn
Vents can be opened and closed manually, but this in through the vent, and the fan expels the warm
requires constant temperature monitoring, which air. The fan should be powerful enough to provide a
is inconvenient and can leave plants wilting in the complete air exchange every 1 to 1.5 minutes.
CALCULATING VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS

Greenhouse manufacturers rarely include enough vents in kits, so be sure to buy more. To determine the square footage
of venting your greenhouse should have, multiply the square footage of the floor by 0.2.
Automatic openers
sense heat buildup
and open vents.
Some openers
are controlled by
standard thermostats,
while others are
solar-powered.

Venting your
greenhouse
Installing at least
one operable roof
vent on each side
of the ridgeline
creates good air
movement within
the structure.
Adding lower
intake vents
helps for cooling.
Adding fans
to the system
greatly increases
airmovement.
GREENHOUSES 37
Cooling
Although vents and fans are the first line of defense Two types of shades are available: cloth and roll-up.
when the temperature inside the greenhouse starts Shade cloth is usually woven or knitted from fiberglass
to climb, other cooling methods such as misting, or polyethylene and is available in many colors, although
humidifying, evaporative cooling, and shading can green, black, gray, and white are most common. You can
also help to maintain the ideal growing environment. also find shade cloth in silver, which, like white, reflects
Cooling is crucial during summer, but it can be just as heat and sunlight and keeps the greenhouse cooler than
important on a sunny winter day. darker colors. Shade cloth also varies in density, usually
from 20 percent to 80percent. The higher the density
Shades of the cloth, the more light it blocks (60 percent density
By blocking direct sunlight, shades protect plants blocks 60 percent of the light). Be careful when choosing
from sunburn and prevent the greenhouse from shade density; too little light will slow plantsgrowth.
getting too hot. They can be installed on the exterior Shade cloth can be simply thrown over the greenhouse
or hung from cables inside the greenhouse. Both and tied down when shading is needed, but this hampers
methods block the sun, but only exterior shades airflow through the vents (unless you cut the cloth to size
prevent solar energy from penetrating the glazing, and install it in sections). Better ventilation is achieved
thereby keeping the air inside the greenhouse cooler. by suspending the cloth 4 to 9 inches above the exterior
When choosing shades, be sure they are UV glazing. Be sure the vents are open when you do this.
stabilized for longevity. Greenhouse shade suppliers can provide frameworkkits.
GREENHOUSE SHADING COMPOUND

Professional greenhouse growers with large operations typically apply greenhouse shading compound to the glazing of
their structures so they can control heat entry and protect their plants. Similar to paint, shading compound contains
ground pigments that reflect the suns rays. The compound is sprayed onto the glazing with an airless sprayer (you can
use a hand-sprayer for a small greenhouse). Sold in 5-gallon buckets, it is diluted with water at an 8 to 1 ratio for plenty of
coverage. Some types are designed to be easily removed with water and a fine nylon broom so you can make adjustments
as needed. Other formulations are intended to be permanent. For more information, ask about the product at your
greenhouse supply store or do an online search for Greenhouse Shading Compound.
Roof shades,
along with vents,
help prevent
a greenhouse
from overheating
in direct
sunlight. Here,
a combination
of circulating
fans and cloth
shades mounted
on the interior
of the south-
facing glass helps
protectplants.

Louvered and roll-up shades help to block the sun in this greenhouse.
In addition to cloth, roll-up greenhouse shades level desired, and the residue can be brushed off at
may be constructed from aluminum, bamboo, or the end of summer. (It is often almost worn off by
wood. They are convenient because you roll them up that point anyway.) Some liquid-shading compounds
when theyre not needed, and they last longer than become transparent during rainy weather to let in
shade cloth, but they are more expensive. more light and then turn white when they dry.
Evaporative Coolers
Evaporative coolers (also called swamp coolers) cool
the air by using a fan to push or pull air through a
water-saturated pad. A portable cooler might be
sufficient for a small greenhouse; larger greenhouses
will benefit from a unit cooler placed outside. Used
when the humidity outside is less than 40 percent,
these units draw dry outside air through the saturated
pad, where it is cooled. The air travels through the
greenhouse and exits via a vent on the opposite side.
Its a good idea to use an algaecide with these coolers.
Liquid Shading
Some greenhouse gardeners choose to paint
liquid-shading compounds (sometimes called
whitewashing) over the outside glazing. These
Roof vents that are triggered to open automatically by sensor
compounds are inexpensive and easy to apply, but alerts are far and away the most important component of a
they can be unattractive and tend to wash off in the greenhouse cooling system. But additional cooling devices
rain. Liquid shading can be thinned or layered to the may be necessary.
GREENHOUSES 39
Workbenches & Storage
Almost any greenhouse can benefit from the right to accommodate a garden cart or wheelbarrow. Set
workbench in the right area. But choose carefully, benches about 2 inches from the greenhouse walls to
because the weight and messiness of some plants provide airflow, and avoid placing benches near any
means only certain workbenches will do. heat source.
How you lay out benches depends on your needs Bench width is determined by the length of your
and the size of your greenhouse. Most average-size reach, so if you are short, you may want benches to be
greenhouses can accommodate a bench along each narrow. The same concept applies to height: although
wall, with an aisle down the middle for access. If you the average bench is about 28 to 32 inches, yours can
have enough space along one endwall, you can install be higher or lower to suit your height and reach. (If
more benches to create a U shape. Another option is they need to be wheelchair-accessible, lower them
to arrange the benches in a peninsula pattern. Shorter even more.) If you have access to benches from both
benches are set at right angles to the outside walls, sides, you can double their width.
with narrow aisles in between, leaving space for a Several options are available for bench tops. Wood
wider aisle down the middle. You can also use a single, slats are sturdy and attractive, and they provide good
wider bench along a side wall and leave space for drainage and airflow. Use pressure-treated or rot-
portable benches and taller plants against the other resistant wood, such as cedar, keeping in mind that
wall. A larger greenhouse can accommodate three cedar benches can be expensive. Wire mesh costs
benches with two aisles. less, is low-maintenance, and also provides good
Regardless of the layout you choose, its best to airflow, but be sure that it is strong enough to support
run workbenches east to west so plants receive even heavy plants. Plastic-coated wire-mesh tops are
light distribution throughout the day. Use the space as available. These are similar to (if not the same as) the
efficiently as possible, and dont inadvertently block closet shelving found in home stores. Usually white,
the door. Allow enough room in the aisles to move they have the advantage of reflecting light within
around comfortably; make them wider if you need thegreenhouse.
Sturdy benches that are easy to clean and withstand moisture are a critical part of a greenhouse thats pleasant to work in.

For space efficiency, potting benches can double as storage containers. Here, the potting benches include spaces for mixing
and storing soils for potting. Slatted covers make it easy to keep the bench-tops tidy.
You can also choose solid tops made of wood, buying a potting tray that you can move around and
plastic, or metal. Solid wood tops should be made use asneeded.
from pressure-treated wood, and metal tops should be Unless you have a separate place to store tools
galvanized to prevent rust. Solid tops provide less air and equipment, youll need to find room for them
circulation than slatted or mesh tops, but they retain in the greenhouse. To determine how much space
heat better in winter and are necessary if you use a youll need, first list all of the equipment necessary
capillary-mat watering system. to operate the greenhouse: everything from labels,
The greenhouse framing material will determine string, and gardening gloves to bags of soil, pots, trash
whether you can install shelves. Shelves can easily cans, and tools. If you will use harmful chemicals, be
be added to a wood-framed greenhouse, and many sure to include a lockable storage area.
aluminum greenhouse kit manufacturers provide Just as in your home, finding storage space in
predrilled framing, along with optional accessories for the greenhouse can be a challenge. Look first to
installing shelves. Keep in mind that even if shelves are shady areas. If the greenhouse has a kneewall, the
wire mesh, they can cast shade onto the plantsbelow. area under the benches can provide a good deal of
If you plan on potting inside the greenhouse, you storage space. Shelves can also provide storage space
can use part of the benches or dedicate a separate for lightweight items. Be creative and make efficient
space for a potting bench in a shady corner or along use of any area where plants wont grow to create
an endwall. For convenience, consider building or accessible yet tidy storage for equipment.
GREENHOUSES 41
Potting Materials
If youre a container gardener, you are already caused by minerals from water and soil leaching
familiar with the vast array of pots available at through the sides. Glazed terra cotta pots hold
garden centers. For greenhouse gardening, however, moisture better than unglazed pots and dont show
pot choices are narrowed to two types: terra cotta mineral deposits. Terra cotta pots are more expensive
andplastic. than plasticpots.
Terra cotta pots are attractive and heavier than Practical and inexpensive, plastic pots hold
plastic, which means they are less likely to be knocked moisture better than terra cotta pots, so you dont
over. In addition, they are porousbecause water have to water plants as often. Gardeners who plan
evaporates through the clay, the risk of overwatering to start seeds and propagate plants often use plastic
is lower. However, you will have to water plants more trays, flats, and cell packs, although peat pots, cubes,
often and clean the pots regularly to remove deposits and plugs are also available for startingseeds.
Terra cotta containers are preferable if your plants will live in the pot permanently. If you are only starting plants for transplant,
inexpensive plastic pots and trays are a good choice.

HYDROPONICS
Hydroponics, the process of growing plants without soil, has become popular with greenhouse gardeners, especially
for growing vegetables. Hydroponic growing medium, which holds plants in place, can be made of polystyrene balls,
expanded clay pellets, gravel, pea stone, perlite, vermiculite, rock wool, or coconut fibers. The simplest method is to
place growing medium into a pot and add a nutrient solution once or twice a day. A more complex system involves using
computer-controlled pumps to automatically flush plants roots with nutrient solution as necessary for maximum growth.
Lettuces are probably the most common hydroponically Root systems grow through the plant support medium and
grown vegetable. They often are shipped with the root down into the water below. Here, the water is contained in
system intact for greater longevity. a childs plastic wading pool.
Many vegetables and herbs that are suitable for greenhouse growing are also good candidates for a hydroponic
environment. Testing different species and judging their success can be a fun process.
GREENHOUSES 43
Easy-to-Build Greenhouses
Some greenhouse designs are so simple that sheeting or rigid plastic panels, such as polycarbonate
construction requires only a weekend or two. The or fiberglass. Because of the steep pitch of the roof,
foundation can be an anchored wooden frame or, for this type of greenhouse easily sheds rain, snow, and
a more permanent structure, a concrete base. leaves and provides more headroom than a hoop
greenhouse. It can also be portable.
Hoophouse
Economical and versatile, a hoop-style greenhouse
(also called a hoophouse or a quonset house) is
constructed of PVC or metal pipes that are bent
into an inverted U shape, attached to a base, and
connected at the top by a ridgepole. A hoophouse is
usually covered with plastic sheeting. A door can be
set at one end, and there may be an exhaust fan or
flap vent that can be rolled up for ventilation. Because
the hoop greenhouse is lightweight, it is not a good
choice in areas with strong winds. (For instructions
on building a hoophouse, see pages 102 to 107.)
A-frame Greenhouse
An A-frame greenhouse is small and lightweight and
can be made of wood or PVC. A series of A-frames A hoophouse is a simple greenhouse made by wrapping clear
is attached to a wood base and covered with plastic plastic over a series of U-shape frames. See page 102.
An A-frame greenhouse is a structure that is both incredibly simple and very stable. Its a great starter option for novice
greenhouse gardeners.

Greenhouse Kits
No matter what kind of greenhouse you have in mind, predrilled and precut, so you only need a few tools to
chances are you can find a kit to match your vision. assemble it. Most kits do not include the foundation,
Dozens of companies offer kits in diverse styles, sizes, benches, or accessories.
materials, and prices. Some offer door options Be sure the kit you choose comes with clear,
sliding versus swinging doors, for example, with comprehensive instructions and a customer-service
and without locks and screens. Some offer glazing number for assistance. Also ensure that it complies
combinations, such as polycarbonate roof panels with with your local building codes and planning
glass walls. And some even offer extension kits for regulations. Depending on the company, shipping
certain models, so you can add onto your greenhouse may be included in the price. Because kits are heavy,
as your space requirements grow. shipping can be expensive; be sure to figure it and
Kit basics usually include framing, glazing panels, the cost of the foundation, benches, all necessary
vents (though usually not enoughits a good idea accessories, and the installation of utilities into
to buy extras), and hardware. A good kit will come yourbudget.
This kit greenhouse has an aluminum frame and polycarbonate panels. It features sliding doors and a roof vent. With nearly
200square feet of floor space, it was a good bargain at around $800. See page 94.
GREENHOUSES 45
Cold Frames
An inexpensive foray into greenhouse gardening, a March day can heat a cold frame to 100 degrees
cold frame is practical for starting early plants and Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), so be sure to monitor
hardening off seedlings. It is basically a box set on the the temperature inside, and prop up or remove the
ground and topped with glass or plastic. Although cover when necessary. On cold nights, especially
mechanized models with thermostatically controlled when frost is predicted, cover the box with burlap, old
atmospheres and sashes that automatically open and quilts, or fallen leaves forinsulation.
close are available, you can easily build a basic cold
frameor several, in a range of sizes (see page 178).
Just be sure to make the back side of the frame about HOTBEDS
twice the height of the front so that the glazing can Similar in construction to cold frames (but not as
be slanted on top. Also ensure that the frame is tall common), hotbeds have been around since Roman
enough to accommodate the ultimate height of the times. Emperor Tiberius directed his gardeners to grow
plants growing inside. The frame can be made of brick, cucumbers in dung-filled carts that were wheeled
plastic, wood, or other materials, and it should be built outside during the day and brought into a rudimentary
to keep drafts out and the soil in. Most important, the greenhouse at night so that he had a supply of the
soil inside must be fertile, well tilled, and free ofweeds. vegetables year-round. This type of garden incorporates
If the frame is permanently sited, position it to horse or chicken manure, which releases heat as it
decomposes. The manure is set within the bed frame
receive maximum light during winter and spring
below ground level and is then topped with a layer of soil.
and to offer protection from wind. An ideal spot is
(If you prefer, you can forgo the manure and lay heating
against the wall of a greenhouse or another structure. cables between soil layers.) To prevent overheating,
Ventilation is important; more plants in a cold frame ventilate a hotbed as you would a coldframe.
die from heat and drought than from cold. A bright
A prefabricated cold frame such as this offers many benefits, including an easy-to-use flip top, white plastic glazing that diffuses
light, and an attractiveappearance.

Sunrooms
A greenhouse can certainly satisfy the desire to Large windows and doors open onto the terrace or
grow a profusion of plants year-round, but its garden. A high roof, which might be all glass, lets
not everyones cup of tea. Even the most avid in abundant natural light. Decorative architectural
gardener will agree that operating and maintaining features announce that this place is different from
a greenhouse requires a major commitmentin a the rest of the houseseparate, but in harmony. Like
greenhouse, the plants depend solely on you for their the conservatories of old, sunrooms can be used for
well-being. The sunroom, on the other hand, allows growing plants and flowers indoors, but they are just
you to surround yourself with flowers and plants in a as often used as sitting rooms, from which to admire
sunny, light-filled room that is designed primarily for the plantings outside thewindows.
your comfort. The sunroom can be a grand conservatoryan
Like the greenhouse, the sunrooms roots are found ornamented, plant-filled glass palace attached to
in the orangeries and conservatories built on the an equally grand home. Or it can be a modest room
grand estates of Europe. In the nineteenth-century containing little more than a few potted plants and
conservatory, fashionable women gathered under the a comfortable reading chair. Grand or modest, the
glass in exotic, palm-filled surroundings for tea. The sunroom is neither wholly of the house nor of the
twenty-first-century garden room invites us to do the garden; it is a link between the two, a place in which
same, in a comfortable interior environment from you can feel a part of the garden but with all of the
which we can appreciate the outdoors year-round. comforts of home.
Like greenhouses, sunrooms can be as simple or as elaborate as your budget and style will allow. This sunroom blends
beautifully with the house.
GREENHOUSES 47
Greenhouse Styles
When choosing a greenhouse, consider the benefits and disadvantages of each style.
Some offer better use of space, some better light transmission; others offer better heat
retention, and some are more stable in strong winds. Keep in mind how you plan to use the
greenhouseits size and shape will have an impact on the interiorenvironment.
B
Traditional Span
A Ventilating roof windows
B High gable peak provides headroom
C 45 roof angle encourages runoff
D Solid kneewalls block wind, provide
A
impact protection, and allow insulation
This type of greenhouse has vertical side walls D

and an even-span roof, with plenty of headroom
in the center. Side walls are typically about
5' high; the roofs central ridge stands 7 to 8'
above the floor. This model shows a low base
wall, known as a kneewall, but glass-to-ground
traditional-span houses are also widely available.
Kneewalls help to conserve heat but block light
below the benches; glass-to-ground houses
suffer more heat loss but allow in more light.
Lean-To
A Adjoining house provides structure C
andheat C
B Aluminum frame is lightweight
B
butsturdy
C Roof vents can be set to open and
closeautomatically
D Well sealed door prevents drafts
andheat loss
A
Because it is attached to the house, a lean-to
absorbs heat fromthe home and offers easy
access to utilities. This model shows curved
eaves, a glazed roof, and glass-to-ground D
construction. Lean-tos can be built on kneewalls
to provide more headroom and better heat
retention than glass-to-ground styles. Sinking
the foundation into the ground about 2 to 3' can
conserve even more heat.

Three-Quarter Span
A Adjoining house provides shelter
B Half-lite door insulates but allows
somelight in
C Operating side vent A
D
D Gable creates headroom
Also attached tothe house, this type of

greenhouse offers the benefits of a lean-to
with even more headroom and better light
transmission (though it offers less light than a
freestanding model). Because of the additional
framing and glazing, this style is more expensive
to build than a traditional lean-to.
Dutch Light
A Tapered sidewalls encourage
condensation to run off
B Lower side vent encourages airflow
C Tile floor retains heat
D Roof angle minimizes light reflection
D
A
B
Especially suitable forlow-growingborder crops,

such as lettuce, this design has sloping sides that
allow maximum light transmission. However, the
large panes of glass, which may be 30 by 59",
are expensive to replace.
GREENHOUSES 49
Mansard
A Full-width door frame
B Sliding doors can be adjusted
forventilation D
C Lower side vents encourage airflow
D Stepped angles ensure direct light
penetration any time of day oryear D
B
The slanting sides androofpanels that
characterize the mansard are designed to
allow maximum light transmission. This
style is excellent for plants that need a lot of
light during the winter.
Mini-Greenhouse
A Brick wall retains heat
B Upper shelf does not block airflow
C Full-depth lower shelf creates
hotspotbelow
D Full-lite storm door
A C
A relatively inexpensive option that requires

little space, this greenhouse is typically
made of aluminum framing and can be
placed against a house, a garage, or
even a fence, preferably facing southeast
or southwest, to receive maximum
light exposure. Space and access are D
limited, however; and without excellent
ventilation, a mini-greenhouse can become
dangerously overheated. Because the
temperature inside is difficult to control, it
is not recommended for winter use.

Dome
A Geometric dome shape is
sturdy and efficient A
B Louvered air intake vent

C Gussets tie structure together
D Articulated door is visually
interesting (but tricky tomake)
This style is stable and more wind-

resistant than traditional greenhouses,
and its multi-angled glass panes provide
excellent light transmission. Because
of its low profile and stability, it works
well in exposed locations. However, it
is expensive to build and has limited
headroom, and plants placed near the
edges may be difficult to reach.
Polygonal B
A Triangular roof windows meet
in hub
B Finial has Victorian appeal
C Built-in benches good for
planters orforseating A
D Lower wall panels have board-
and-batten styling
Though it provides an interesting

focal point, this type of greenhouse
is decorative rather than practical.
Polygonal and octagonal greenhouses
are typically expensive to build, and
space inside islimited.
GREENHOUSES 51
Alpine House
A Banks of venting windows at
both sides of peak
B Adjustable louvers for airintake A
C Cedar siding on kneewall
hasrusticappeal
D Fixed roof windows D
lendstability
B
Specifically designed for plants that
normally grow at high elevations
and thrive in bright, cool conditions,
this alpine house is unheated and
has plenty of vents and louvers for
maximum ventilation. Doors and vents C
are left open at all times (except in
winter). Many rock-gardenplants
edelweiss, sedum, and gentian,
forexampleappreciate the alpine
house environment.
Hoophouse
A Bendable PVC tubes
providestructure
B 4-mil plastic sheeting is very
inexpensive glazing option
C Roll-up door
D Lightweight base makes A
hoophouse easy to move
Made of PVC or metal framing and

plastic glazing, this lightweight,
inexpensive greenhouse is used
for low-growing crops that require
minimal protection from the elements.
Because it does not provide the warm
conditions of a traditional greenhouse, D
it is designed mainly for extending the
growing season, not for overwintering
plants. Ventilation in this style can be
a problem, so some models have sides
that roll up.

Conservation Greenhouse
A High peak for good headroom
B Louvered wall vents
C Sturdy aluminum framing
D Broad roof surface for
maximum heat collection
With its angled roof panels, double-glazing, and insulation, the conservation greenhouse is designed to save energy. It is oriented
east-to-west so that one long wall faces south, and the angled roof panels capture maximum light (and therefore heat) during
the winter. To gain maximum heat absorption for the growing space, the house should be twice as long as it is wide. Placing the
greenhouse against a dark-colored back wall helps to conserve heatthe wall will radiate heat back into the greenhouse at night.
FREE GREENHOUSE DESIGN SOFTWARE

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a computer software program called Virtual Grower
that you can use to create your own custom greenhouse design. It helps you make decisions about roof and sidewall
materials, operating temperatures, and other variables. It even has a calculator for estimating heating costs. The software
can be downloaded free of charge: https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/software.
GREENHOUSES 53
Gallery of Greenhouses
or such a basic, utilitarian structure, there is The traditional glass greenhouse is giving way to
F anastounding diversity of greenhouse styles.
Some are purely functional, while others are
modern versions with synthetic panels that are often
opaque, diffusing light and sparing plant leaves from
over-the-top gorgeous. Thats why, once youve burning. But the forms of the greenhouse structure
made allthe practical decisions of how big it will havent really changed. You can choose a traditional
be, where youll put it, what services youll need, gabled construction, a slant-sided Dutch style, or a
and what foundation it will go on, youll still have thoroughly modern geodesic dome. Youll find a range
plenty ofoptions to choose from based purely of options covered in the pages that follow. Use these
onlooks. as inspiration for your ultimate decision.
Go grand when you want to marry traditional style to a stunning landscape. If money is no object, your greenhouse can be a jaw-
dropping feature that creates a centerpiece for your landscape. This traditional greenhouse features a steel frame, glass glazing,
and the time-honored roof crest that is not only a distinctive visual feature but also keeps birds from perching on the ridge and
fouling the roofs panels.

Grow in modern style
with a high-end
prefab shed
greenhouse. This
backyard stunner
is sold as a kit but
looks custom. It
includes operable
vent windows,
and the footprint
lends itself to many
different greenhouse
workspace
configurations.
Keep in mind that
a greenhouse can
be a backyard focal
point as well as a
utilitybuilding.
The first order of business is always location, location, location. As the sun-drenched interior of this modern shed greenhouse
shows, siting your greenhouse is the most important consideration. This one is located right in the middle of a backyard,
avoiding shade from trees on the perimeter and taking advantage of the sun throughout the day.
GREENHOUSES 55
Integrate your greenhouse. This Gothic
arch-style structure is a trim and
inoffensive addition to a yard, but it
really comes into its own as a planned
part of the landscape. Positioned at
the end of a path with a raised bed
behind it, it seems just as permanent
as the wood arbor or brick walls in this
largecourtyard.
Start small with a lean-to. If youre not ready to commit to a full-blown greenhouse, a lean-to kit such as this one is a great way
to get your feet wet. The simple construction belies a well-thought-out functionality. This kit comes with seals and gutters, and
the homeowner has opted to create beds from mounded soil. Placing the lean-to on a brick patio meant that no foundation had
to bedug.

Choose a lightweight option when youre not certain about
siting. This well-constructed half-hoop kit greenhouse is a
perfect starter for the novice gardener. It is easy to assemble
and can be anchored in place or easily moved to a different
location to suit differentplants.
Consider hanging plants when choosing a framing material. Look to kits for flexible options. This prefab Gothic arch-style
Growing plants in hanging baskets lends another dimension greenhouse came complete with frame and panels as well
to your greenhouse, but the framing has to be sturdy enough as dual countertops that can be reconfigured to suit planting
to support the additional weight. The solid wood rafter braces and work needs. Kit manufacturers also offer packages that
in this greenhouse are more than up to thejob. include accessories such as the time and temperature control
panels, thermostat, and vent fan in thisgreenhouse.
GREENHOUSES 57
Maximize exposure with a geodesic dome greenhouse. This intriguing style makes the most of available sunlight
and is excellent at counteracting wind and snow loads. The handsome kit shown here comes complete with a pony
wall, polycarbonate panels, and all the hardware youll need to build what is actually a fairly complex structure.
Build a stunning greenhouse with

wood. Few materials are quite as
handsome as wood when it comes
to framing a greenhouse, and the
redwood that makes up this frame is
especially beautiful. Left untreated,
the frame will age to an elegant gray.
This is a prefab all-in-one structure,
even though it looks custom built.

Integrate a kit greenhouse
with other landscape
features to make it seem
at home. This tidy prefab
unit is attractive enough
with its crisp opaque
panels, but it really
seems part of the yard
thanks to a bed planted
next to it and planters
around it.
Prep for greenhouse success. This is another Gothic arch-style prefab greenhouse that has been set up for longevity and efficiency.
It sits on a framed foundation, with a dirt floor that can be used for growing and is forgiving of spills or accidents. The slotted
benches are ready to hold plants in need of sun and tender care, and the stone path ensures slip-free accessibility in any season.
GREENHOUSES 59
Think beyond growing when choosing your greenhouse. As Play it safe with lean-tos. A subdued, attached greenhouse will
this kit unit shows, a greenhouse can be a year-round relaxing fit attractively with your house. This white-framed prefabricated
room as well as a place to grow your favorite plants. Its all lean-to provides abundant space inside and looks integrated
how you outfit it. with the housethe glass, not the frame, dominates. A brick
walkway wrapping around the lean-to adds to the appeal.
Seek details that

aid construction
modern greenhouse
manufacturers offer
many construction
shortcuts that
make building
your greenhouse
easier. This
framing connector
alleviates the need
for multiple miter
cuts, shaving quite
a bit of time off the
constructionprocess.

Outfit for what you want to grow. Orchids are finicky plants that require carefully curated growing conditions, and this
greenhouseequipped with a variable-speed direction fan, multiple vent windows, and a sturdy heatermakes the perfect
home for them. It doesnt hurt that the gorgeous redwood frame is a beautiful complement to the showstopping flowers.
GREENHOUSES 61
Find a frame color that will work with your location. This lovely kit greenhouse is offered in different frame colors, but the green
here blends with the forest-like surroundings. In tandem with a custom-made platform, the frame and opaque panels create a
very elegant visual.
Supplement greenhouses with the right portable cold frame. This trim, prefab unit can be used on a patio with potted plants or
placed right over young plants in a bed. Its easy to clean, durable, and a great partner to a greenhouse in the garden.

Go big in a sun-drenched area. This sizeable hobby Use a kneewall when appropriate. The solid kneewall around
greenhouse offers plenty of room for plants of all types and the bottom of this greenhouse makes the structure feel more
plenty of window exposure to soak up the sun in a large, rooted and permanent, and it also adds stability. The kneewall
wide-open backyard. doesnt detract from sun exposure because nearby structures
limit the sun to the upper portion of thegreenhouses.
Keep climate in mind when choosing a greenhouse. Areas prone to snow, hail, or gale-force winds all present challenges. To
ensure that your greenhouse stays standing, select one meant to stand up to the elements in your local climate. The geodesic
dome greenhouse here was obviously a good choice for the anticipated snowload.
GREENHOUSES 63
Pick accessories to make greenhouse
gardening easy on yourself. The solar-
powered automatic openers shown here
make opening and closing vents and
louvers one less thing you need to worry
about. As the black probes are hit by
increasing sunshine, they slowly trigger the
opening devices, working in reverse when
the sun goes down.
Determine quality by looking at the fine details. Inspect any prefab greenhouse for signs of quality construction. This quick-fit
fastener makes assembly easier and less stressful, and it will ensure the long-term stability of the greenhouse.

Stage your greenhouse to make it a focal point and an incredible addition to your landscape. This smartly appointed prefab
greenhouse, with its clean and sharp appearance, is shown to its best advantage by being centered on a raised foundation of
crushed, colored gravel, bordered by scalloped stones.
Organize your greenhouse from the start to ensure the gardening experience is as pleasant and efficient as possible. This simple
greenhouse includes a center stone path that makes wheeling materials and plants in and out a breeze. The deep, sturdy
workbenches ensure that plants have ample room while still leaving space for the gardener to work.
GREENHOUSES 65
Greenhouse
Projects
lthough building a greenhouse involves many

A of the same principles that go into building a
larger structure, such as a house or a room addition,
a greenhouse is a much simpler project. You can
also choose to begin your greenhouse adventure
with a modest unit, growing into a larger, more
fully equipped version once you become familiar
with the process of growing plants in a controlled,
indoorenvironment.
The projects in this section will accommodate any
need, whether youre just starting out or looking to
graduate to a much bigger, more complex greenhouse.
Have a small yard and want to stick with the basics?
Regardless of which project you choose, keep in
mind that its all about the plants. The greenhouse you
build needs to serve the type of plantsand the stage
of growthyou want for your garden. It must also be
within your skills and energy to build, so you dont
wind up with a half-finished structure comesummer.
In this chapter:
Custom Victorian Greenhouse
DIY Gabled Greenhouse
Freestanding Kit Greenhouse
PVC Hoophouse
Shed-Style Greenhouse
Sun Porch Kit
Low-Maintenance Sunroom
GREENHOUSE PROJECTS 67
Custom Victorian Greenhouse
ne objection to most kit greenhouses is that inside the greenhouse hits around 85 degrees, the
O they tend to have little going for them on the
style front: a plain metal framework supporting clear
vents pop open automatically. The windows and the
door are custom-made by sandwiching polycarbonate
panels. If youre looking for a greenhouse project that panels between wood frames. To allow for movement
blends with the look and character of your home, your of the materials, the frames are bolted together through
best bet is to design and build one yourself. oversized bolt holes. All but one of the windows are hinged
The custom greenhouse seen in this project is on the tops so they can swing open to enhance ventilation.
designed and scaled to fit lean-to-style against a The greenhouse seen here features a poured
south-facing wall on an 1890s-era Victorian house. concrete slab that is set apart from the house by an
The principal design details that make it blend are the isolation joint. The back wall studs and roof panels
kneewall, which uses the same narrow wood lapsiding are not connected to the house either, thus the
as the house, and the custom windows and door, greenhouse is technically a freestanding structure.
which feature an arch element that is also present in Gaps between the greenhouse and the house are
the house trim. At roughly 6 9 feet in floorplan, the covered with various flashings, each of which is
greenhouse is on the small side. But a space-conserving connected to one of the structures only. This has
built-in-bench helps the gardener who designed the several advantages: primarily, it allows the structure
greenhouse get maximum usage from this small space. to move and shift slightly (thereby avoiding cracking
The glazing on the greenhouse is -inch-thick clear of glazing and roof panels) as the soil conditions and
polycarbonate (See Resources, page 236). The roof panels temperature change. And if the structure is small
are also clear -inch polycarbonate, but with a hollow enough and has adequate setback distance from
twin-wall construction that resists shattering and limits your property lines, you likely will not need a building
condensation. The roof vents are operated by lift arms permit. If the greenhouse were connected to the house,
with integral thermometers. When the air temperature you would be required to dig full frost footings, as well.
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Shovel Pencil Concrete Piano hinges
Garden rake Tape measure J-bolts Automatic window vent
Hand tamper Circular saw Post anchors opener (optional)
Drill/driver Jigsaw Socket wrench Bolts
Framing square Power miter saw Concrete nails or screws Wood glue
Level Pen Skew joist hangers 8d finish nails
Concrete mixer Drywall saw Joist hanger nails Exterior-rated butt hinges
Mallet Sandpaper Paint and paint brush Door pulls and eyehooks
Float Straightedge guide Seaming strip Door stop moldings
Sheet plastic Compactible gravel Pole barn screws Garage door sweep
Powder-actuated tool Deck screws (2", 3") Metal flashing Silicone caulk
Clamps Metal re-mesh Roof vent covers

Before
After
FRAMING
E F
A
I
G G
F G
G
E
A
I
I
C A
A
B A
C
D
B H
CUTTING LIST
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
A Post 5 3 3 78" 44
B Front/back plate 2 1 3 84" PT 2 4
C End plate 2 1 3 56" PT 2 4
D Door wall plate 2 1 3 26" PT 2 4
E End cap-bottom 2 1 3 63" 24
F F/B cap-bottom 2 1 3 84" 24
G Back wall stud 4 1 3 76" 24
H Kneewall stud 15 1 3 33 24
I Upper stud 3 3 3 42 44
ROOF
N
O
M
N
J
K
Q
R
P
J
K
Rafter end
6"
1"
2"
U U
T T
CUTTING LIST
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
J End cap-top 2 1 3 56" 24 P Rafter 5 1 3 81" 24
K F/B cap-top 2 1 3 91" 24 Q Cripple rafter 2 1 3 30" 24
L Roof ridge 1 1 3 64" 24 R Cripple rafter 2 1 3 22" 24
M Skew rafter 2 1 3 79" 24 S Cripple rafter 2 1 3 12" 24
N Roof leg 2 1 3 39" 24 T Roof panel-side 2 42 63" Suntuf
O Roof support 5 1 3 34" 24 U Roof panel-main 2 47 79" Suntuf
WINDOW
W3
W1
CUTTING LIST (26 40") W5

W1 Rail-A 2 3 26" 14 W4
W2 Stile-A 2 3 33" 14
W3 Rail-B 2 3 19" 14
W2 W2
W4 Stile-B 2 3 40" 14
W5 Insert 2 5 19" 14 W4
W6 Glazing 1 26 40" Palsun
W3
W6
W1
DOOR
D3
D6
CUTTING LIST (26 77") D1

D1 Rail-A 1 3 26" 14
D7
D2 Rail-B 1 5 26" 16
D3 Rail-C 1 3 19" 14
D5
D4 Rail-D 1 5 19" 16
D5 Stile-A 2 3 68" 14
D6 Stile-B 2 5 77" 14
D7 Insert 16 5 7" 16
D4
D8 Glazing 1 26 77" Palsun
D8 D7
D7
D2
Materials for Building Custom Greenhouses
The glazing and roof panels in this custom greenhouse are made from "-thick polycarbonate panels. The roof panels have
vertical walls and are hollow, which makes them more dimensionally stable and less likely to crack than clear panels (a big
benefit for roof). The "-thick, clear polycarbonate used for the window and door glazing is very durable too. Standard 18"-thick
clear acrylic can be used for roofs or glazing. It is relatively inexpensive and sold at most building centers. But it has a shorter
lifespan than polycarbonate.
An automatic lifter arm contains a sensor that causes your roof Products for joining and fastening panels include a panel
window vents to raise when the interior temperature reaches a seam trim, which has wide flanges on both edges to accept
preset levelusually around 100F. two panels that butt together; 100% silicon caulk for sealing
seams (check with the panel manufacturer for compatibility of
adhesives and caulks); and rubber-gasket pole barn screws
for fastening panels to rafters or purlins.
How to Build a Custom Victorian Greenhouse
1
Stake out the installation area for the greenhouse. Strip off Install a 4 to 6" thick layer of compactible gravel to create a
vegetation and then excavate for the subbase material and stable subbase. Tamp the gravel with a hand tamper or rental
that portion of the slab you want to be underground. For compactor. The tamped surface should slope away from the
drainage reasons, plan your slab so at least 1 to 2" of the house at a very shallow rateabout 116" per foot. Insert an
concrete is above grade. isolation board strip (usually made of asphalt-impregnated
fiberboard) between the slab area and the foundation wall to
keep the structures separate.
3
Build the three-sided concrete form and position it on top
of the subbase. Screw the three 2 4s together with deck
screws and then tack a 1 4 or 2 4 across the top, back
ends of the sides. Square and level the forms and then drive
wood stakes outside the 2 4 members. Attach the form to
the stakes with deck screws driven through the stakes and
4
into the form boards.
Add reinforcement in the concrete area. For most DIYers,
NOTE: The slab seen here is sized so there is a concrete metal re-mesh is an easy reinforcement material to work
apron of 2 to 3" around the structure, resembling a with. It is sold in 5 50' rolls and in 4 8' sheets. Prop the
foundation wall. Some builders prefer to size the slab so re-mesh on some small stones or bolsters. The edges of the
the corner posts are flush with the slab edges, allowing you reinforcement should be at least 4 to 6" away from the sides,
to cover the gap at the concrete surface with siding. and no closer than 1" to the concrete surface.

5 6
J-bolt
Isolation board
Pour concrete into the form. For a slab of the dimensions Set J-bolts into the concrete after it sets up and after you
shown (4" thick by 68 84") approximately 15 cu. ft. have rounded the edges with an edger tool. Make sure to
(yard) of concrete is required (thirty 60-pound bags of dry follow your plan closely for the J-bolt positions. Cover the
mix). Settle the concrete by rapping the forms lightly with a concrete with sheet plastic and allow it to dry overnight before
mallet, and then strike off the material before floating. removing the forms.
7 8
Ear protection
Install post anchors at the corners and at the doorjamb Cut the 2 4 sill plates to fit between the posts, using
location. Standoff posts that elevate the post bottom slightly pressure-treated lumber. Install the sill plates by fastening
will greatly reduce the amount of water the post end will wick with a powder-actuated tool and concrete nails. Or, you can
up from the footing. drill guide holes and install masonry anchor sleeves or simply
drive concrete screws into the concrete. (continued)
9 10
Tack the posts in the standoff post bases with a couple of Remove the posts for trimming to final height, making sure to
deck screws, making sure they are resting cleanly on the note which post belongs in which base. Marking and cutting
standoff pads. Also brace the posts with 2 4 braces so they in this manner ensures that the tops of all posts will be level
are plumb. Tack all the posts in position and plumb them even though the slab slopes away from the house. Precutting
and then mark level cutting heights using a laser level or level posts to the same length will result in a roof structure that is
forreference. not flat. Reinstall the posts in the anchors and fasten with joist
hanger nails or 16d galvanized nails.
11 12
Cut the 2 4 endwall cap plates to length and screw them Clamp the doubled front and back wall cap plates together so
to the tops of the corner posts with 3" deck screws. Test the top plate overhangs the lower plate by 3" on each end.
frequently to make sure the corners are square and the edges Screw the top plates to the endwall cap plates and then fasten
are flush with the post edges. the front and back wall plates together with 2" deck screws.
Fasten the top cap plate on each end.

13
Build stud walls for the kneewalls
between posts. Space the kneewall
studs so they will be positioned beneath
14
the intermediate posts. Attach cap plate
to the tops of thestuds. Add 1 6 sills to the tops of the 2 4 kneewalls. The sills will cover the edges of
the exterior siding, so make the interior edges flush with interior wall studs and
capplate.
15 16 17
Add intermediate 4 4 posts between Install back wall studs between the Construct and attach the roof ridge
the sills and the undersides of the back sill plate and the back cap plates, support wall, featuring a 2 6 on edge
doubled cap plates. These posts should spaced 16" on center. Do not attach at the top of the wall. It is easiest to build
be situated directly above kneewall these studs to the housethey must this wall on the ground and then erect it
studs. The posts are spaced so the remain isolated from it structurally. as a unit. Use a pair of 2 4 braces to
distances between posts will create keep the support wall stable while you
uniform-width bays for the windows. attach the rafters. (continued)
18 19
Ridge
Leg
Temporary brace
Header
Cut the rafters. Set workpieces in

position against the 2 6 ridge pole
and mark the point where they meet
the header. Make a birdsmouth cutout
in each rafter so it will rest flush on the
Position a 2 4 so it spans from the ridge pole and past the header. Transfer header (top photo). Cut a decorative
cutting lines onto the workpiece and then cut the outer support legs to length at the profile on each rafter end according to
marked angle. Attach the legs with deck screws. the Diagram on page 71 (bottomphoto).
20 21
Install the corner rafters. First, attach skew joist hangers to the Fill in the remaining rafters. If you wish, you can use joist
ends of the ridge pole for the skewed rafters that extend out to the hanger hardware to attach the rafters to the ridge pole. Or,
front corners. Nail the rafters into the hangers with joist hanger you can nail or screw them. Spacing between rafters should
nails. Toenail them (or drive screws toenail style) to theheader. beuniform.

22
23
Measure from the corner rafters to the endwall headers to find Clamp the side rafter workpieces to a sturdy worksurface and
the lengths for the side rafters in the hip wall configuration. cut the top and bottom angles with a circular saw or jigsaw. The
Cut 2 4 workpieces to length for each rafter. side rafters in this design do not overhang the wall headers.
Attach the side rafters with screws driven through pilot holes.
24 25
Cut kneewall sheathing panels from exterior plywood and Cut and install trim boards and corner boards according to
attach the panels to the kneewall studs with deck screws. your plan for siding the kneewall. The tops of the trim boards
should butt against the undersides of the sills.
(continued)
26 27
Install the siding on the kneewall. Generally, it is a good idea Paint the structure prior to adding roof panels and windows
to install siding that matches the house siding. However, a with glazing. Two coats of exterior paint is an adequate finish
well-chosen contrasting material also can have a pleasing for an exterior lumber product, such as this cedar siding. A
design impact. base coat of primer is always a good idea.
28 29
Seaming strip
Also seal the roof structure with paint before installing the Begin to fasten the roof panels. The twin-wall corrugated
roof panels. The charcoal colored paint seen here recalls polycarbonate panels seen here are fastened directly to the
the color of wrought iron, which was used frequently to rafters. A panel seaming strip with channels on each edge is
construct greenhouses and related Victorian structures, such fastened to the center rafter to create a transition between the
asorangeries. two abutting panels. Install the strip first so you can take more
accurate width measurements for cutting the panels.

30
31
Cut the first roof panel to rough size using a circular Set one edge of the panel into the slot in the seam strip so it
saw fitted with a fine-tooth panel-cutting blade. Use a is in the exact position youll install it. Use a marking pen to
straightedge cutting guide. Or, use a tablesaw if you have trace a cutting line onto the panel, flush with the edge of the
access to one. endwall. Remove the panel and cut it to size.
PROTECTING PANEL ENDS

32
Use foil tape to cover the top edges of corrugated

panels, protecting the edges from moisture and insects
(spiders love to lay eggs in channels like these). The
edge on the bottom of the panel can be covered with foil
tape also, but youll need to poke a small weephole at
the end of each channel so condensation can drain out.
Or, you can use an alternate method such as L-shaped
trim to protect the open panel ends (see Step 54).
Set the panel into position and test the fit. (continued)
33 34
Fasten the roof panels with rubber-gasket equipped pole barn screws driven every Cut the side roof panels to fit and attach
12" at each rafter or purlin. Take care not to overdrive the screws, but be sure they them with rubber gasket screws. The
penetrate far enough to create a tight seal. hip seams will be covered with flashing
(see page 83).
35 36
Frame openings for the roof vent cutouts. Install a pair of Cut out the openings in the roof panels. Drill a starter hole at
parallel framing members at the top and bottom of each each corner and then use a drywall saw to make the cuts.
opening. The tops of the frames should be flush against the Clean up the cut edges with sandpaper.
roof panel.

37
38
Install flashing over the hip roof seams. Cover the gap between the standalone greenhouse structure and the house with
Here, common drip cap flashing is metal flashing. Aluminum handy flashing (12" width) can be fastened to the house
being fastened with rubber-gasket and lightly creased so it extends over the gap and forms a seal without any physical
screws driven into the roof rafters. connection to the greenhouse.
39 40
Install roof vent covers. (Here, the installation of the covers Attach an automatic window vent opener to each roof vent
was postponed to allow access through the vent holes for cover, according to the hardware manufacturers instructions.
installing flashing.) Use a piano hinge to attach each roof vent These devices have internal sensors that lift the vent cover
cover to the roof. when the greenhouse overheats. (continued)
41 42
Make the greenhouse windows. First, cut the window glazing Cut the rails and stiles for the window frame to length from
panels (" clear polycarbonate is used here) using a circular 14 pine stock. Assemble the frame parts around the
saw and a straightedge guide. The glazing should equal the glazing panel, clamping them together temporarily. Use the
full height and width of the window. For convenience, this glazing panel as an alignment reference: if the panel is square
greenhouse was designed with all six windows exactly the and the frame edges are flush with the glazing all around,
same size. your window is square.
43 44
Drill guide holes for the bolts that draw the window parts Cut the arched inserts to fit at the top of the window frame
together. Use a bit thats slightly larger than the diameter opening. Install the inserts in the frame with glue and a
of the bolt shafts. This allows for slight expansion and couple of brads or pin nails. Install an insert on both the
contraction of the window parts as the temperature and interior and the exterior sides of the window.
humidity level change. Counterbore the bolt holes slightly.

Install operable windows by centering
the window unit in the opening, using
45 shims to center it side-to-side and
top-to-bottom. Hang the windows with
exterior-rated pairs of butt hinges.
46
47
Attach door stop molding on the Install door pulls and eyehooks onthe
perimeter of each window opening, set interior side of the window. Locate
so the window will be flush with the thepulls so they are centered and
framed openings. Install fixed windows nearthe tops of the bottom window
(if any) by centering the window unit in frame rails. Locate the eyehooks so
the opening side to side and driving a there will be slight tension when the
few 8d finish nails through pilot holes hook is in the screw eyethis will limit
in the window and into the posts. any rattling of the window.
Angle the pilot holes so the nail will not
contact the glazing.
48 49
Assemble the door frame. The center stiles should be attached Bolt the door together in the same manner as the window,
to the frame rails with pocket screws or with deck screws drilling over-sized guide holes and counterboring slightly for
driven toenail style. Clamp the parts together, sandwiching a the nuts. Install two or three bolts in the center stile area to
piece of polycarbonate between the frames. keep the frame and glazing from separating.
(continued)
50
51
Hang the door. You may find it easier to
paint it first. Door stop moldings should
be installed so the door is flush with the
outside greenhouse wall when closed.
Cut the door panel inserts with a jigsaw and sand them smooth. Insert them into the Add a latch and a handle. If you want to
framed openings as shown in the Diagram on page 72. Secure them on both sides be able to lock the greenhouse, add a
of the glazing, using glue and brads or pin nails. hasp and padlock.
52 53
Attach a garage door sweep (or comparable weatherstripping Make sure the foundation is clean and dry, then fill the gap
product) to cover the gaps between the greenhouse and the between the concrete and the siding with clear siliconecaulk.
house. Flashing, such as drip cap, may be used to cover the
gaps on the downsloping sides of the hiproof.

A
Add trim elements to complete the roof. Parts of the roof trim system include: flashing over ridge (A); clear vent panel (B)
attached with piano hinge (C) and automatic closer (D); seaming strip (E); metal drip cap for edges (F); 14 112" wood battens
at rafter locations (G); vinyl cap molding at eave edges (H).
Finish the interior.

You may
add interior
wallcoverings if
you wish, but
the exposed stud
bays are good
spots for adding
shelving. For
instructions on
building this built-
in potting bench,
see pages 206
to209.
DIY Gabled Greenhouse
greenhouse can be a decorative and functional space for plants to grow. For a door, this plan simply
A building that adds beauty to your property. A
greenhouse also can be a quick-and-easy, temporary
employs a sheet of weighted plastic that can be tied
out of the way for entry and exit. If you plan to go
structure that serves a purpose and then disappears. in and out of the greenhouse frequently, you can
The wood-framed greenhouse seen here fits purchase a prefabricated greenhouse door from a
somewhere between these two types. The sturdy greenhouse materials supplier. To allow for ventilation
wood construction will hold up for many seasons. The in hot weather, we built a wood-frame vent cover
plastic sheeting covering will last one to five seasons, that fits over one rafter bay and can be propped
depending on the materials you choose. It is easy to openeasily.
replace when it starts todegrade. You can use hand-driven nails or pneumatic
The 5-foot-high walls in this design provide ample framing nails to assemble the frame, if you wish,
space for installing and working on a conventional- although deck screws make more sense for a small
height potting table. The walls also provide some structure like this.
A wood-frame greenhouse
with sheet-plastic cover
is an inexpensive,
semipermanent
gardening structure
that can be used as a
potting area as well as a
protectivegreenhouse.

TOOLS, MATERIALS & CUTTING LIST
(1) 20 50' roll 4- or 6-mil polyethylenesheeting KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
(12) 24"-long pieces of #3 rebar A Base ends 2 3 3 96" 4 4 landscape timber
(8) 8" timber screws B Base sides 2 3 3 113" 4 4 landscape timber
Compactable gravel (or drainage gravel) C Sole plates end 2 1 3 89" 2 4 pressure-treated
Excavation tools D Sole plates side 2 1 3 120" 2 4 pressure-treated
Level E Wall studs side 12 1 3 57" 24
Circular saw F Ridge support 1 1 3 91" 24
Drill G Back studs 2 1 3 76" * 24
Reciprocating saw H Door frame sides 2 1 3 81" * 24
Maul I Cripple stud 1 1 3 16" 24
3" deck screws J Door header 1 1 3 32" 24
Jigsaw K Kneewall caps 2 1 3 120" 24
Wire brads L Ridge pole 1 1 3 120" 24
Brad nailer (optional) M Rafters 12 1 3 60" * 24
Scissors *Approximate dimension; take actual length and angle measurements on structure
before cutting.
Utility knife
Tape measure
I L
J
G
K
F
C
H
A
D
D
E
B
C A
How to Build a Gabled Greenhouse
1 2
Prepare the installation area so it is flat and well drained Cut 12 pieces of #3 rebar to length at 24" (if necessary),
(see page 74); then cut the base timbers to length. Arrange using a reciprocating saw or hacksaw. Drill a 38"-diameter
the timbers so they are flat and level and create a rectangle pilot hole through each timber, near both ends and in the
with square corners. Drive a pair of 8" timber screws at each middle. Confirm that the timber frame is square by measuring
corner, using a drill/driver with a nut-driver bit. diagonally between opposing corners (the measurements
must be equal). Drive a rebar spike through each hole, using
a hand maul, until the bar is flush with the timber.
3 4
Cut the sole plates, caps, and studs for the two kneewalls. Install the kneewalls onto the timber base. Set each wall onto
Mark the stud layouts onto the plates and caps, spacing the a side timber so the sole plate is flush with the ends and side
studs at 24" on center. Assemble each kneewall by driving 3" edges of the timber frame. Fasten the sole plate to the timber
deck screws through the sole plates and caps and into the with 3" deck screws.
ends of the studs.

Ridge pole
Temporary post
5 6
Begin the endwalls by cutting and installing the end sole Set the ridge pole on top of the support posts and check it
plates to fit between the side plates, using 3" deck screws. for level. Install temporary cross braces between the outer
Cut the ridge support posts to length. Toenail one post at the wall studs and each support post, making sure the posts are
center of each end sole plate. Check the posts with a level to plumb before fastening the braces. Double-check the posts
make sure theyre plumb before fastening. and ridge for plumb and level, respectively.
NOTE: The front post will be cut later to create the

dooropening.
7 8
Create a template rafter by cutting a 2 4 at about 66". Hold Mark and cut the remaining rafters, using the template to trace
the board against the end of the ridge and the top outside the cutting lines onto each piece of stock.
corner of a wall cap. Trace along the face of the ridge and the
cap to mark the cutting lines for the rafter. Cut along the lines, TIP: A jigsaw or handsaw is handy for making the bottom-
then test-fit the rafter and make any necessary adjustments end cuts without having to over-cut, as you would with a
for a good fit. circular saw. (continued)
9 10
Install the rafters, using the deck screws driven at an Mark the two door frame studs by holding them plumb and
angle into the kneewall caps and the ridge. The rafters tracing along the bottom edge of the rafter above. Position the
should be aligned with the studs and perpendicular to studs on-the-flat, so the inside edge of each is 16" from the
theridge. center of the support post (for a 32"-wide door, as shown).
Install the studs with angled screws. Cut and install two
studs on the rear endwall, spacing them evenly between the
kneewalls and support post.
11 12
Tack strips
Complete the door frame: Mark the front support post 78" Begin covering the greenhouse with the desired cover material
(or as desired) up from the sole plate. Make a square cut at (6-mil poly sheeting shown here), starting at the endwalls.
the mark, using a circular saw or cordless trim saw (inset), Cut the sheeting roughly to size and secure it to the framing
then remove the bottom portion of the post. Cut the door with wood tack strips fastened with wire brads. Secure the
header (from the post waste) to fit between the door studs. sheeting at the top first, the sides next, and the bottom last.
Fasten the header to the door studs and remaining post piece Trim the excess material along the edges of the strips with a
withscrews. utility knife.

Door
2 4 weight
13 14
Attach sheeting to the edges of the sole plate on one side of Create the door, using a piece of sheeting cut a little larger
the greenhouse, then roll the sheeting over the top and down than the door opening (or purchase a door kit; see photo
the other side. Draw it taut, and cut it a little long with scissors. below). Secure the top of the door to the header with a tack
Secure the sheeting to the other sole plate (using tack strips), strip. Weight the doors bottom end with a 2 4 scrap cut
then attach it to the outside edges of the corner studs. tolength.
GREENHOUSE DOORS
OPTION: Make a vent window. First, cut a hole in the roof

in one rafter bay and tack the cut edges of the plastic to
the faces (not the edges) of the rafters, ridge pole, and
wall cap. Then build a frame from 1 2 stock that will
span from the ridge to the top of the kneewall and extend
a couple of inches past the rafters at the side of the
Plastic door kits, available from greenhouse suppliers,
opening. Clad the frame with plastic sheeting and attach
include self-adhesive zipper strips and are easy to roll
it to the ridge pole with butt hinges. Install a screw-eye
up and tie for access or ventilation. You can also create
latch to secure it at the bottom. Make and attach props if
your own roll-up door with zipper strips and plastic
youwish.
sheeting purchased from a buildingcenter.
Freestanding Kit Greenhouse
uilding a greenhouse from The kit were demonstrating here is made from aluminum frame
B a prefabricated kit offers
many advantages. Kits are usually
pieces and transparent polycarbonate panels and is designed to be
installed over a subbase of gravel about 5 inches thick. Other kits may
very easy to assemble because have different subbaserequirements.
all parts are prefabricated and When you purchase your kit, make sure to uncrate it and examine all
the lightweight materials are the parts before you begin. Make sure all the pieces are there and that
easy to handle. The quality of kit there are no damaged panels or bent frame members.
greenhouses varies widely, though, A perfectly flat and level base is crucial to any kit greenhouse, so
and buying from a reputable make sure to work carefully. Try to do the work on a dry day with no
manufacturer will help ensure that wind, as the panels and frame pieces can be hard to manage on a windy
you get many years of service from day. Never try to build a kit greenhouse by yourself. At least one helper is
yourgreenhouse. mandatory, and youll do even better with two or three.
If you live in a snowy Construction of a kit greenhouse consists of four basic steps: laying
climate, you may need to either the base, assembling the frame, assembling the windows and doors, and
provide extra support within attaching thepanels.
the greenhouse or be ready to
remove snow whenever there is
a significant snowfall because
the lightweight aluminum frame
members can easily bend under
a heavy load. Before buying a
kit, make sure to check on how
snowfall may affect it.
Kit greenhouses are offered by
many different manufacturers, and
the exact assembly technique you
use will depend on the specifics of
your kit. Make sure you read the
printed instructions carefully, as
they may vary from this project.
Kit greenhouses come in a wide range

of shapes, sizes, and quality. The best
ones have tempered-glass glazing and
are rather expensive. The one at right is
glazed with corrugated polyethylene and
is at the low end of the cost spectrum.

Organize and inspect the contents of your kit cartons to make sure all of the parts are present and in good condition. Most
manuals will have a checklist. Staging the parts makes for a more efficient assembly. Just be sure not to leave any small parts
loose, and do not store parts in high-traffic areas.
A cordless drill/driver with a nut-driver accessory will trim Rent outdoor power equipment if you need to do significant
hours off of your assembly time compared with using only regrading to create a flat, level building base. Be sure to have
hand tools. your local utility company inspect for any buried utility lines
first. (You may prefer to hire a landscaping company to do
regrading work for you.)
How to Build a Freestanding Kit Greenhouse
1
Establish layout lines for the gravel subbase, using stakes or batterboards and masons string. The excavation area for the
subbase should be at least 2" wider and longer than the outside dimensions of the greenhouse kit base. Make sure the layout is
perfectly square (the lines are perpendicular to one another) by measuring diagonally between opposing corners: the layout is
square when the measurements are equal.
2
Excavate the site to a depth of 5", using the layout strings as a guide. As you work, use a straight 2 4 and a 4' level to check
the excavation to make sure it is level and flat. Tamp any loose soil with a plate compactor or hand tamp. Cover the excavation
with commercial-grade landscape fabric (do not use plastic; the membrane must be water-permeable). Fill the area with 2 or
3" of compactible gravel, grade and level it, then tamp it thoroughly. Add more gravel, level, and tamp for a final subbase depth
of 5".

Bottom wall plate
Base
3 4
Assemble the greenhouse base, using the provided corner and Attach the bottom wall plates to the base pieces so that the
end connectors. Set the base onto the subbase and make flanged edges face outside the greenhouse. In most systems,
sure the base is level. Measure the diagonals to check for the floor plates will interlock with one another, end to end,
square, as before. Add a top dressing of gravel or other fill with built-in brackets.
material inside the base, up to about 1" below the bases top
lip. Smooth and level the gravel as before.
Side ceiling plate
Front ceiling plate
Corner stud
5 6
Fasten the four corner studs to the bottom wall plates, using Install the ceiling plates: Assemble the pieces for each side
hold-down connectors and bolts. In this system, each corner ceiling plate. Attach each side plate against the inside of
stud is secured with two connectors. the two corner studs along each side of the greenhouse,
making sure the gutter is positioned correctly. Attach the front
ceiling plate to the outsides of the corner studs at the front of
thebuilding. (continued)
Attach the other
side ceiling plate
along the other 7
side, flat against
the inside of the
corner studs. Corner bracket
Then attach
corner brackets
to the rear studs,
and construct the
back top plate Stud connectors
by attaching the
rear braces to
the corners and
joining the braces
together with
studconnectors.
Fasten the left and

right rear studs
tothe outside 8
of the rear floor
plate, making sure
the top ends are
sloping upward,
toward the peak of
the greenhouse.
Attach the center
rear studs to
the rear floor
plate, fastening
them to the
stud connectors
used to join the
rearbraces.
BACKWARD AND FORWARD

With some kits you need to go backward to go forward.
Because the individual parts of your kit depend upon one
another for support, you may be required to tack all the
parts together with bolts first and then undo and remake
individual connections as you go before you can finalize
them. For example, in this kit you must undo the track/
brace connections one at a time so you can insert the bolt
heads for the stud connectors into the track.

Doorway studs
9 10
Install the doorway studs at either side of the greenhouse door Add diagonal struts, as directed by the manufacturer. The
on the front end of the building. Install the side studs along struts help to stiffen and square up the walls. As you work,
both side walls of the greenhouse. take diagonal measurements between opposing corners at the
tops of the walls, to make sure the structure remains square.
11 12
Rafter
Crown
Crown beam
Fasten the gable-end stud extensions to the front and back Assemble the roof frame on a flat area near the wall assembly.
walls of the greenhouse. The top ends of the studs should First assemble the crown-beam pieces; then attach the rafters
angle upward, toward the peak of the greenhouse. to the crown, one by one. The end rafters, called the crown
beams, have a different configuration, so make sure not to
confuse them. (continued)
Side braces
Roof window support
13 14
With at least one helper, lift the roof into place onto the wall Attach the side braces and the roof-window support beams
frames. The gable end studs should meet the outside edges to the underside of the roof rafters, as specified by the
of the crown beams, and the ends of the crown beams rest on manufacturers instructions.
the outer edge of the corner bracket. Fasten in place with the
provided nuts and bolts.
15
16
Build the roof windows by first connecting the two side window Assemble the doors, making sure the top slider/roller bar and
frames to the top window frame. Slide the window panel into the bottom slider bar are correctly positioned. Lift the door
the frame; then secure it by attaching the bottom window panels up into place onto the top and bottom wall plates.
frame. Slide the window into the slot at the top of the roof
crown; then gradually lower it in place. Attach the window
stop to the window support beam.

17 18
Install the panels one by one, using panel clips. Begin with Add the upper panels. At the gable ends, the upper panels
the large wall panels. Position each panel and secure it by will be supported by panel connectors that allow the top
snapping a clip into the frame, at the intervals specified by panel tobe supported by the bottom panel. The lower panels
the manufacturers instructions. should be installed already.
20
19
Install the roof panels and roof-window panels so that the top Test the door and window operation, and make any necessary
edges fit up under the edge of the crown or window support adjustments so they open and close smoothly.
and the bottom edges align over the gutters.

PVC Hoophouse
he hoophouse is a popular garden structure for The hoophouse shown here is essentially a Quonset-
T two main reasons: it is cheap to build and easy
to build. In many agricultural areas you will see
style frame of bent -inch PVC tubing draped with
sheet plastic. Each semicircular frame is actually made
hoophouses snaking across vast fields of seedlings, from two 10-foot lengths of tubing that fit into a plastic
protecting the delicate plants at their most vulnerable fitting at the apex of the curve. PVC tubes tend to stay
stages. Because they are portable and easy to together simply by friction-fitting into the fittings, so
disassemble, they can be removed when the plants you dont normally need to solvent glue the connections
are established and less vulnerable. (this is important to the easy-to-disassemble and store
While hoophouses are not intended as feature). If you experience problems with the frame
inexpensive substitutes for real greenhouses, they connections separating, try cutting 4- to 6-inch-long
do serve an important agricultural purpose. And pieces of -inch (outside diameter) PVC tubing and
building your own is a fun project that the whole inserting them into the tubes and fittings like splines.
family canenjoy. This will stiffen theconnections.
A hoophouse
is a temporary
agricultural
structure
designed to be
low-cost and
portable. Also
called Quonset
houses and
tunnel houses,
hoophouses
provide shelter
and shade
(depending on
the film you use)
and protection
from wind and
the elements.
They will boost
heat during the
day, but are
less efficient
than paneled
greenhouses for
extending the
growing season.

PVC HOOPHOUSE
Cross fitting
T-fitting
Ridge pole section
1" PE pipes
" PVC pipes
Plastic sheeting " CPVC pipes
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Hand sledge Stakes and masons string (3) " PVC cross fittings
Plastic tubing cutter or hacksaw Eye and ear protection (2) " PVC T-fittings
Wood or rubber mallet Tape measure 16 24' clear or translucent plasticsheeting
Circular saw Work gloves (4) 16' pressure-treated 2 4s
Stapler (5) " 10' CPVC pipes 2" deck screws
Drill (14) " 10' PVC pipes (1) 1" 6' PE tubing (black, flexible)
Utility knife
BUILDING A HOOPHOUSE
Space frame hoops about 3' apart.
Leave ridge members a fraction of an inch (not more than ") shorter than the span, which will cause the structure to
be slightly shorter on top than at the base. This helps stabilize the structure.
Orient the structure so the wall faces into the prevailing wind rather than the end openings.
If you are using long-lasting greenhouse fabric for the cover, protect the investment by spray-painting the frame hoops
with primer so there is no plastic-to-plastic contact.
Because hoophouses are temporary structures that are designed to be disassembled or moved regularly, you do not
need to include a base.
Hoophouses can act a lot like boat sails and will fly away if theyre not anchored securely. Be sure to stake each hoop
to the ground at both ends (with 30" or longer stakes), and carefully weight down the cover with boards (as shown
here) or piles of dirt.
Clip the hoophouse covers to the end frames. Clips fastened at the intermediate hoops will either fly off or tear the
plastic cover in windy conditions.
6-mil UV-stabilized film
3- to 4-mil clear polyethylene

3- to 4-mil translucent polyethylene
Sheet plastic is an inexpensive material for creating a greenhouse. Obviously, it is less durable than polycarbonate, fiberglass or
glass panels. But UV-stabilized films at least 6-mil thick can be rated to withstand four years or more of exposure. Inexpensive
polyethylene sheeting (the kind you find at hardware stores) will hold up for a year or two, but it becomes brittle when exposed
to sunlight. Some greenhouse builders prefer to use clear plastic sheeting to maximize the sunlight penetration, but the
cloudiness of translucent poly makes it effective for diffusing light and preventing overheating. For the highest quality film
coverings, look for film rated for greenhouse and agricultural use.
" PVC supply tubing (frame)
" CPVC supply tubing (stakes)
PE tubing for clips
" T-fitting " cross fitting
Plastic tubing and fittings used to build this hoophouse include: light-duty " PVC tubing for the frame (do not use CPVCit is
too rigid and wont bend properly); " CPVC supply tubing for the frame stakes (rigidity is good here); polyethylene (PE) tubing
for the cover clips; T-fittings and cross fittings to join the frame members.

How to Build a PVC Hoophouse
10 ft.
15 ft.
Lay out the installation area, using stakes and masons string. Stake the four corners to create a rectangle that is 10' wide
and 15' long. To make sure the layout is square (the strings are perpendicular), measure diagonally between opposing corner
stakes: when the measurements are equal, the layout is square.
2 3
Cut a 30"-long stake from " CPVC pipe for each leg of each Join the two legs for each frame hoop with a fitting. Use a
frame hoop. Plastic pipe is easy to cut with a plastic tubing T-fitting for the end hoop frames and a cross fitting for the
cutter or a hacksaw. Mark the layout strings at 36" intervals, intermediate hoop frames. No priming or solvent gluing is
using tape or a marker. Drive a stake at each marked location, necessary. (The friction-fit should be sufficient, but it helps if
using a hand sledge or hammer. Keep the stakes plumb and you tap on the end of the fitting with a mallet to seat it.)
drive them in 20" deep, so only 10" is above ground. (continued)

4 5
Slip the open end of one hoop-frame leg over a corner stake Continue adding hoop frames until you reach the other end
so the pipe is flush against the ground. Then bend the pipes of the structure. Wait until all the hoop frames are in place
so you can fit the other leg end over the stake at the opposite before you begin installing the ridge poles. Make sure the
corner. If you experience problems with the pipes pulling out cross fittings on the intermediate hoop frames are aligned
of the top fitting, simply tape the joints temporarily until the correctly to accept the ridge poles.
structure frame is completed.
6 7
Add the ridge pole sections to tie together the hoop frames. Cut four 2 4s to length (15' as shown). Cut the cover
The correct length for the ridge poles depends on the socket material to length at 16' (or as needed so it is several inches
depth of the fitting you use, so youll have to measure the longer than the house at both ends). Staple one edge of the
fittings and calculate length of the ridge pieces. If necessary, cover to one of the 2 4s, keeping the material taut and flat
tap the end of each ridge piece with a wood or rubber mallet as you work from one end to the other
to seat it fully in the fitting socket.

8 9
Lay another 2 4 over the first so their ends and edges are Pull the cover taut on the other side of the house, and repeat
flush and the cover material is sandwiched in between. the process of stapling it to one board then sandwiching with
Fasten the two boards together with 2" deck screws driven the other.
every 24" or so. Position the board assembly along the base of
the hoops and pull the free end of the material over the tops
of the hoops to the other side.
10 OPTION: Make doors by clipping a piece of cover material

to each end. (Its best to do this before attaching the main
Secure the cover at the ends with 6" lengths of 1" PE cover.) Then cut a slit down the center of the end material.
tubing. Cut the tubing pieces to length, then slit them You can tie or tape the door material to the sides when
lengthwise to create simple clips. Use at least six clips you want it open and weigh down the pieces with a board
at each end of the house. Do not use clips on the or brick to keep the door shut. This solution is low-tech
intermediate hoops. but effective.

Shed-Style Greenhouse TOOLS & MATERIALS
Circular saw Framing square
Power miter saw Plumb bob
his unique outbuilding is part greenhouse and part
T shed, making it perfect for a year-round garden space
or backyard sunroom, or even an artists studio. The
Hammer
Level
Caulk
Caulk gun
front facade is dominated by windowsfour 29- 72- Hand tamper Screwdriver
inch windows on the roof, plus four 29-18-inch
Ladder Work gloves
windows on the front wall. When appointed as a
greenhouse, two long planting tables inside the shed let Eye & ear protection
you water and tend to plants without flooding the floor.
If gardening isnt in your plans, you can omit the tables that sunlight, the temperature inside the shed is another
and cover the entire floor with plywood, or perhaps fill in important consideration. You may want to install some
between the floor timbers with pavers or stones. roof vents to release hot air and watervapor.
Some other details that make this 10- 12-foot Building the Shed-Style Greenhouse involves a
shed stand out are the homemade Dutch door, with few unconventional construction steps. First, the side
top and bottom halves that you can open together or walls are framed in two parts: You build the square
independently, and its traditional saltbox shape. The portion of the endwalls first, then move onto the roof
roof covering shown here consists of standard asphalt framing. After the rafters are up, you complete the
shingles, but cedar shingles make for a nice upgrade. rake, or angled, sections of the side walls. This makes
Because sunlight plays a central role in this shed it easy to measure for each wall stud, rather than
design, consider the location and orientation carefully. having to calculate the lengths beforehand. Second,
To avoid shadows from nearby structures, maintain a the sheds 4 4 floor structure also serves as its
distance between the shed and the structure thats at foundation. The plywood floor decking goes on after
least 2 times the height of the obstruction. With all of the walls are installed, rather than before.
With slight
modifications, many
ordinary sheds can
be redesigned as
greenhouses. The
addition of glass roof
panels turns this
shed design into an
effectivegreenhouse.

CUTTING LIST
PART QUANTITY/SIZE MATERIAL PART QUANTITY/SIZE MATERIAL

Foundation/Floor Windows
Foundation base 5 cu. yds. Compactible gravel Glazing 4 pieces @ 1
4"-thick clear
& interior drainage beds 3114 7612" plastic glazing
Floor joists & blocking 7 @ 10' 4 4 pressure-treated 4 pieces @
landscape timbers 3114 2034"
4 4 blocking 1 @ 10' 4 4 pressure-treated Window stops 12 @ 10' 24
1 @ 8' landscape timbers
Glazing tape 60 linear ft.
Box sills (rim joists) 2 @ 12' 2 4 pressure-treated
Nailing cleats 2 @ 8' 2 4 pressure-treated Clear exterior caulk 5 tubes
& 2 4 blocking Door
Floor sheathing 2 sheets @ 4 8' 3
4" ext.-grade plywood Trim & stops 3 @ 8' 1 2 cedar
Wall Framing Surround 4 @ 8' 2 2 cedar
Bottom plates 2 @ 12', 2 @ 10' 2 4 pressure-treated Z-flashing 3 linear ft.
Top plates 4 @ 12', 2 @ 10' 24 Plant Tables (Optional)
Studs 43 @ 8' 24 Front table, top & trim 6 @ 12' 1 6 cedar or
Door header & jack studs 3 @ 8' 24 pressure-treated
Front table, plates & legs 4 @ 12' 2 4 pressure-treated
Rafter header 2 @ 12' 28
Rear table, top & trim 6 @ 8' 1 6 cedar or
Roof Framing
pressure-treated
RaftersA & C, & nailers 10 @ 12' 24 Rear table, plates & legs 4 @ 8' 2 4 pressure-treated
RaftersB & lookouts 10 @ 10' 24 Fasteners & Hardware
Ridge board 1 @ 14' 26 16d galvanized common
5 lbs.
Exterior Finishes
nails
16d common nails 16 lbs.
Rear fascia 1 @ 14' 1 6 cedar
10d common nails 112 lbs.
Rear soffit 1 @ 14' 1 8 cedar
8d galvanized common
Gable fascia (rake board) 4 @ 16' 1 6 cedar 2 lbs.
nails
& soffit
8d galvanized box nails 3 lbs.
Siding 10 sheets @ 4 8' 58" Texture 1-11
plywood siding 10d galvanized finish
212 lbs.
nails
Siding flashing 10 linear ft. Metal Z-flashing
Trim* 4 @ 12' 1 4 cedar 8d galvanized siding nails 8 lbs.
1 @ 12' 1 2 cedar 1" galvanized roofing
7 lbs.
Wall corner trim 6 @ 8' 1 4 cedar nails
8d galvanized casing nails 3 lbs.
Roofing
6d galvanized casing nails 2 lbs.
Sheathing 5 sheets @ 4 8' 1
2" exterior-grade
plywood roof sheathing Door hinges with screws 4 @ 312" Corrosion-resistant
15# building paper 1 roll hinges
Door handle 1
Drip edge 72 linear ft. Metal drip edge
Shingles 223 squares Sliding bolt latch 1
Asphalt shingles
250# per sq. min. Construction adhesive 1 tube
*Note: The 1 4 trim bevel at the bottom of the sloped windows can be
steeper (45 or more) so the trim slopes away from thewindow if there
is concern that the trim may capture water running down the glazing
(see WINDOW DETAIL, page 116).
BUILDING SECTION
2 6 Ridge board
2 4 Rafter C, 16"
oncenter
Self-seal shingles over #15 12 12
building paper and 12" exterior- 7 12
grade plywood sheathing (2) 2 8 Headers
2 4 Nailer
2 4 Rafter A, 16" 1 4 Trim board

oncenter
2 4 Ripped window stops
1
16 4" Clear plastic window
Fascia board
(2) 2 4 Rafter B
1 8 Soffit 2" 4" Window stop
2 4 Window stop
2 4 Tie plate
w/45 bevel
6' 234"
2 4 Top plate 1 4 Trim board
38" High potting 1' 4" 2 4 Ripped

2 4 Wall stud, table w/shelf window stops
16" oncenter
1
4" Clear plastic window
5
8" T1-11 Siding 3' 938" 6' 138" 1 4 Trim boards
3
4" Plywood 2 4 Nailer
flooring
2 4 Cripples, 16"
oncenter
7' 438"
9' 058"
4 4 Treated
floor joists 5
8" T1-11 Siding
Note: See table
24 and lower window 2 4 Bottom plate
Bottom plate detail for dimensions
4" Gravel bed,
2 4 Blocking compacted
44
Treated blocking
FLOOR FRAMING PLAN
2 4 Box sill
1 1 2"
2 4 Blocking
Treated 2 4 nailing cleat
9' 10 34"
9' 734"
4 8 Plywood flooring
4 4 Treated floor joists
4 4 Treated blocking
1 1 2"
4" Gravel bed, compacted
1' 1138" 2' 0" 2' 0" 2' 0" 2' 0" 1' 1138"
11' 1034"
LEFT SIDE FRAMING RIGHT SIDE FRAMING
26
2 6 Ridge board Ridge board
Rafter A
Rafter A
Rafter B
Rafter B 2 4 Nailer
(2) 2 8
(2) 2 8 Header pocket
Header pocket 24
Tie plate
2 4 Nailer 24
Top plate
3 1 2" 3 1 2"
2 4 Tie plate
7' 578"
6' 812"
7'-5 78"
2 4 Top plate
7'-0"
(2) 2 4 Header
3' 234"
w/ 12" plywood spacer

3' 234"
3' 214"
Cut out
3' 778" 16" 16" 16" 16"
16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 1178"
9' 334" 378"
3
378" 9'-3 4"
Panel D
Panel B
FRONT FRAMING
6" 1' 38" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 1' 38" 6"
2 6 Ridge board
2' 1116"
2 4 Rafter C, 16"
See RAFTER TEMPLATES (page 116)

on center
1 1 2" (2) 2 8
Header (2) 2 4 Rafter B
2 4 Nailer
6' 234"
1 6 Rake board
2 4 Lookouts
@ 2'-0" on center
3 1 2" 11' 1034" 3 1 2"
1 1 2"
3' 1116" 1
2' 10 16" 1
2' 10 16" 1
3' 1 16" 6"
6"
2 4 Tie plate
1' 9" R.O.
Window size 2 4 Top plate
1 1 2"
3' 414"

(2) 2 4 Stud
1' 114"
Cripple size 2 4 Cripples
1' 38" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 1' 38"
1 1 2"
2 4 Bottom plate
3
11' 10 4"
Panel A
REAR FRAMING
6" 1' 38" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 1' 38" 6"
2 6 Ridge board
(page 116) for dimensions
See RAFTER TEMPLTATES
2 4 Rafter A, 16" on center
1 6 Rake board
2 4 Lookouts, 2' 0" on center
6" 3 1 2" 11' 314" 3 1 2" 6"

2 4 Tie plate
2 4 Top plate
1 1 2"
2 4 Wall stud, 16" on center

6' 9"
7'
1 1 2"
2 4 Bottom plate
1' 38" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 16" 1' 38"
11' 1034"
Panel C
FRONT ELEVATION REAR ELEVATION
Self-seal shingles
1 4 Trim board
2 4 Window Self-seal shingles

stops ripped
1
4" Clear
plastic window 1 6 Trim board
14
Trim board 24
Corner boards
14
Filler ripped
14 T1-11 Siding
Trim board
14 Grade
Corner boards
T1-11 Siding
Grade
RIGHT SIDE ELEVATION SOFFIT DETAIL
Self-seal shingles over

12 #15 building paper and 12"
7 12
12 exterior plywood sheathing
7
12
Z-flashing 2 4 Rafters,
16" on center
16
Fascia board Metal drip edge
14 1 6 Fascia board
10'-0"
Trim board
1 8 Ripped soffit
14 2 4 Tie plate
Corner boards
2 4 Top plate
T1-11 Siding
T1-11 Siding w/ 1 4
corner boards (typ.)
Grade
2 4 Wall studs, 16" on center

FRONT & SIDE DOOR CONSTRUCTION
3'-0"
6"
T1-11 Siding
1 2 Wood trim
1 1 2"
24
2338"
3838"
T1-11 Siding
1 1 2"
6"
1 1 2"
Latch
1 1 2"
1 1 2"
6"
6' 634"
2 4 Trim
24
6"
1 2"
1 1 2"
2 2 Surround
1 1 2"
6" 6"
21"
2338"
3838"
1 1 2"
6"
FRONT & SIDE DOOR CONSTRUCTION (DOORJAMB, REAR, DOOR HEADER)
24
Tie plate
2 2 Bracing
on backside
w/ 34" lap joint 24
Top plate
Door pull Provide latch

behind for
Dutch door
1 2 Door stop
2 2 Surround 2 4 Dutch door

bottom rail
T1-11 Siding
1 2 Door stop
(2) 2 4
2 2 Surround Header
312" hinge w/ 12"
plywood
spacer
1 2 Trim T1-11 Siding
Bolt latch
1 2 Trim
2 4 bottom rail
HEADER & WINDOW DETAIL WINDOW SECTION
(2) 2 4 Rafters
Self-seal shingles 12 1
4" Clear plastic window panel
over #15 building
paper and 12" exterior 12 1 1 2" 1 1 2"
plywood sheathing
(2) 2 4 Rafters 1 1 2" 1 1 2"
2 1 4"
Z-flashing
1 4 Trim board
2 4 Nailer 24 2' 10116"
3 1 2"
4"
1"
Ripped window
(2) 2 8 Header
1
stops with caulking
glued and nailed (typ.)
2 4 Ripped window stop
1
4" Clear plastic window panel 1 4 Trim board
2 4 Ripped window stop with caulking
WINDOW DETAIL TABLE & LOWER WINDOW DETAIL
1
4" Clear plastic 12 1
window panel 4" Clear plastic window panel
12 2 4 Ripped window stop
(2) 2 4 Rafters
3' 34"
2 4 Ripped window
4"
stop w/ 45 bevel 3' 0"
3
and caulking
3
4"
Caulking (typical)
5 1 2"
2 4 Tabletop studs, 16" on center

2" 3 1 2"
2 2 Window stop
with caulking T1-11 Siding
1 6 Table boards
1' 6"
2 4 Tie plate
1
1 6 Trim board
1' 2"
1 4 Trim board 2 4 Top plate

1
2 4 Ledger
2 4 Top plate
2 4 Studs @ 16" on center
2 4 Ripped window stops 2 4 Bottom plate
with caulking (typical)
3
(2) 2 4 Wall stud 4" Plywood flooring 4" Gravel bed 1 4 Ripped
RAFTER TEMPLATES RAKE BOARD DETAIL
2" 2 6 Ridge board 12

5' 58" 12
4' 1058" 2 4 Blocking 7 12
2 12 2 4 Rafter A
"
1 12
" 2 4 Rafter A
15
6 16" 2 16" 15 4' 1034" 2" 2 4 Rafter B
8' 734"
8' 634" 1"
1"
" 2 4 Rafter B
1
1 2
1 2
1
"
2 1 2 "
3 1 2" 1' 7716" 2 1 8" 6' 4316" 2 1 2"

2' 1116"
2 4 Rafter C
1 6 Rake board
3 1 2" 1' 7716" 2 1 8"
How to Build a Shed-Style Greenhouse
1 2
Build the foundation, following the basic steps used for a Cut ten 4 4 blocks to fit between the joists. Install six blocks
wooden skid foundation. First, prepare a bed of compacted 34" from the front rim joist, and install four blocks 31"
gravel. Make sure the bed is flat and level. Cut seven from the rear. Toenail the blocks to the joists. All blocks, joists,
44"10' pressure-treated posts down to 115" to serve and sills must be flush at the top.
as floor joists. Position the joists as shown in the FLOOR
FRAMING PLAN. Level each joist, and make sure all are level
with one another and the ends are flush. Add rim joists and
blocking: Cut two 12' 2 4s (142") for rim joists. Fasten
the rim joists to the ends of the 4 4 joists (see the FLOOR
FRAMING PLAN) with 16d galvanized common nails.
3 4
To frame the rear wall, cut one top plate and one pressure- For the front wall, cut two top plates and one treated bottom
treated bottom plate (14234"). Cut twelve studs (81"). plate (14234"). Cut ten studs (3534") and eight cripple studs
Assemble the wall following the layout in the REAR FRAMING (1314"). Cut four 2 4 window sills (311116"). Assemble the
(page 113). Raise the wall and fasten it to the rear rim joist wall following the layout in the FRONT FRAMING (page 113).
and the intermediate joists, using 16d galvanized common Add the double top plate, but do not install the window stops
nails. Brace the wall in position with 2 4 braces staked to at this time. Raise, attach, and brace the front wall.
the ground. (continued)

5
6
Cut lumber for the right side wall: one top plate (5478"), one Trim two sheets of " plywood as needed and install
treated bottom plate (111"), four studs (81"), and two them over the joists and blocking as shown in the FLOOR
header post studs (8678"); and for the left side wall: top FRAMING PLAN, leaving open cavities along the front of the
plate (5478"), bottom plate (111"), three studs (81"), two shed and a portion of the rear. Fasten the sheets with 8d
jack studs (77"), two posts (8678"), and a built-up 2 4 galvanized common nails driven every 6" along the edges and
header (39"). Assemble and install the walls as shown in 8" in the field. Fill the exposed foundation cavities with 4" of
the RIGHT SIDE FRAMING and LEFT SIDE FRAMING (page gravel and compact it thoroughly.
112). Add the doubled top plates along the rear and side
walls. Install treated 2 4 nailing cleats to the joists and
blocking as shown in the FLOOR FRAMING PLAN (page 112)
and BUILDING SECTION (page 111).
7 8
Construct the rafter header from two 2 8s cut to 14234". Cut one of each A and B pattern rafters using the RAFTER
Join the pieces with construction adhesive and pairs of 10d TEMPLATES (page 116). Test-fit the rafters. The B rafter
common nails driven every 24" on both sides. Set the header should rest squarely on the rafter header, and its bottom end
on top of the side wall posts, and toenail it to the posts with should sit flush with outside of the front wall. Adjust the rafter
four 16d common nails at each end. cuts as needed, then use the pattern rafters to mark and cut
the remaining A and B rafters.

9 10
Cut the 2 6 ridge board (15434"). Mark the rafter layout onto Cut a pattern C rafter, test-fit, and adjust as needed. Cut the
the ridge and front and rear wall plates following the FRONT remaining seven C rafters and install them. Measure and cut
FRAMING and REAR FRAMING. Install the A and B rafters four 2 4 nailers (311116") to fit between the sets of B rafters
and ridge. Make sure the B rafters are spaced accurately (as shown). Position the nailers as shown in the HEADER &
so the windows will fit properly into their frames; see the WINDOW DETAIL (page 116) and toenail them to therafters.
WINDOW SECTION (page 116).
11 12
Complete the rake portions of each side wall. Mark the Create the inner and outer window stops from 10'-long
stud layouts onto the bottom plate, and onto the top plate 24s. For stops at the sides and tops of the roof windows
of the square wall section; see the RIGHT and LEFT SIDE and all sides of the front wall windows, rip the inner stops to
FRAMING. Use a plumb bob to transfer the layout to the 214" wide and the outer stops to 1" wide; see the WINDOW
rafters. Measure for each stud, cutting the top ends of the SECTION and WINDOW DETAIL (page 116). For the bottom
studs under the B rafters at 45 and those under the A of each roof window, rip the inner stop to 112"; bevel the edge
rafters at 30. Toenail the studs to the plates and rafters. Add of the outer stop at 45.
horizontal 2 4 nailers as shown in the framing drawings. (continued)

13 14
Install each window as follows. Attach inner stops as shown in Cover the walls with T1-11 siding, starting with the rear wall.
the drawings, using galvanized finish nails. Paint or varnish the Trim the sheets as needed so they extend from the bottom
rafters and stops for moisture protection. Apply a heavy bead edges of the rafters down to at least 1" below the tops of the
of caulk at each location shown on the drawings (HEADER foundation timbers. On the side walls, add Z-flashing above
& WINDOW DETAIL, WINDOW SECTION/DETAIL, TABLE the first row and continue the siding up to the rafters.
& LOWER WINDOW DETAIL). Set the glazing in place, add
another bead of caulk, and attach the outer stops. Cover the
rafters and stop edges with 1 4 trim.
15 16
Soffit
Install 1 6 fascia over the ends of the A rafters. Keep all Rip 1 6 boards to 514" width (some may come milled to 514"
fascia 12" above the rafters so it will be flush with the roof already) for the gable soffits. Fasten the soffits to the lookouts
sheathing. Using scrap rafter material, cut the 2 4 lookouts with siding nails. Rip a 1 8 board for the soffit along the rear
(514"). On each outer B rafter, install one lookout at the bottom eave, beveling the edges at 30 to match the A rafter ends.
end and four more spaced 24" on center going up. On the A Install the soffit.
rafters, add a lookout at both ends and two spaced evenly in
between. Install the 1 6 rake boards (fascia) as shown in
the RAKE BOARD DETAIL (page 116).

17 18
Deck the roof with 12" plywood sheathing, starting at the Construct the planting tables from 2 4 lumber and 1 6
bottom ends of the rafters. Install metal drip edge, building boards, as shown in the TABLE & LOWER WINDOW
paper, and asphalt shingles. If desired, add one or more DETAIL and BUILDING SECTION. The bottom plates of
roof vents during the shingle installation. Be sure to overlap the table legs should be flush with the outside edges of the
shingles onto the 1 4 trim board above the roof windows, as foundationblocking.
shown in the HEADER & WINDOW DETAIL.
19 20
Build each of the two door panels using T1-11 siding, 2 2 Complete the trim details with 1 4 vertical corner boards,
bracing, a 2 4 bottom rail, and 1 2 trim on the front side; 14 horizontal trim above the front wall windows, and ripped
see the DOOR CONSTRUCTION drawings (page 115). The 1 4 trim and 1 2 trim at the bottom of the front wall
panels are identical except for a 2 4 sill added to the top windows (see the TABLE & LOWER WINDOW DETAIL). Paint
of the lower panel. Install 1 2 stops at the sides and top of the siding and trim, or coat with exterior wood finish.
the door opening. Hang the doors with four hinges, leaving
even gaps all around. Install a bolt latch for locking the two
panelstogether.

are its easy installation and its versatility. First, its
designed to install right on top of an existing concrete
patio slab or a wood deck, eliminating the extensive
site-prep work required with a custom project. If you
dont have a patio or deck in place, you can build an
inexpensive foundation with landscape timbers to
support the sunroom structure, then create a floor
Sun Porch Kit inside using brick pavers, stone, wood decking tiles, or
other suitable material. The sunroom manufacturer
and your local building department can help you with
the planning and construction details.
sun porch, a sunroom, a three-season porch, The sunrooms versatility is apparent in both its
A a greenhouse, a hothouse, an orangerie, a
conservatory . . . these names are not precisely
design and use. Its modular construction allows
you to specify the height, width, and length of
interchangeable, but all refer to a similar type of the structure to fit your needs and your house.
room. The common element all types share is that Other modifications can be made at the factory to
their walls and usually their roofs are made of clear accommodate special installation requirements,
panel glazing that allows light in and traps it, raising such as installing the room to fit against the roof
the ambient room temperature to more comfortable eave of your house or even slightly above the eave.
levels in cooler times of year. Some of these structures The standard room design includes two matching
are designed for gardening-related activities; others endwalls and a front wall. If your sunroom will fit
are meant for enjoyment or entertainment. Some are into a corner where two house walls meet, simply
freestanding, others are attached to a house. order the room without one of the endwalls. The
If it is custom-built for you by a professional sizes of endwalls also can be adjusted to fit other
contractor, a sunroom can be quite expensive. But houseconfigurations.
there is another option: a sunroom in a box. You can Operable and removable windows make this
have a complete, do-it-yourself sunroom kit delivered sunroom versatile to use. In cooler months, all the
to your home in cardboard boxes. A good deal of windows can be closed against the cold to keep the
assembly is required, of course, but with a few basic suns heat inside. As the weather warms up, you can
tools and a helper, most people with basic DIY skills open either the top or bottom window sash to capture
can complete the job in a weekend. the breezes. And in the summer, you can take the
The key features of this sun porch (manufactured windows out completely to convert the sunroom into
by SunPorch Structures Inc., see Resources page 236) a fully screened patio room.
CHECK IN WITH YOUR BUILDINGDEPARTMENT

Its up to you to gain legal approval for your
sunroom project. Contact your citys building
department to learn what its rules are. Some
municipalities require permits and inspections
for DIY sunrooms, while others exclude
structures that are installed over existing
patios or decks and do not change the homes
footprint. In any case, you should also consult
with a qualified building professional to make
sure your patio, deck, or other foundation can
safely support a sunroom.
A DIY sunroom kit comes with all of the parts

precut and predrilled for your own custom
design. Assembling the kit is a relatively easy
task that most couples can accomplish in
aweekend.

Commercial-grade, lightweight
glazing, and predrilled aluminum
frame parts are the key components
that make this sunroom kit
lightweight and durable enough for
shipping and also easy to assemble.
Sunrooms can be perfectly
acceptable spaces for evening
activities, if you equip them with
light fixtures (left).

Sun Porch Kit Accessories
Skylight shades give you control over light and heat coming Precisely fitted wall shades are convenient for reducing glare
through the roof panels. These 2-in-1 shades have a solid and heat gain right where you need it. Theyre also great for
reflective panel that blocks most of the suns light and heat adding privacy when and where you want it without blocking
and a translucent panel that blocks only half of the sunlight to all of your sunroom views.
reduce glare and heat gain while letting light filter through.
Optional roof vents allow hot air to escape and help to flush the interior of the sunroom with fresh air. Adjustable covers let you
control the rate of airflow. The opening and closing mechanism is easy to operate from inside the sun porch.

Options for Attaching a Sun Porch to Your House
Attach the ledger directly to the wall if there is no eave If the maximum height of the sun porch brings it up against
overhang or if there is at least 6" of clear working space or within 6" of the bottom of the eave overhang, extend the
between the top of the ledger and the bottom of the eaves. fascia on the eave downward and fill in with boards or siding
between the cornice and the back post for the sunporch.
The ledger for the sun porch can be attached directly to the If the sun porch is slightly taller than the roof eaves, you
fascia board as long as the highest point of the sun-porch can add a ledger thats taller than the fascia, but it cannot
roof remains slightly lower than the roof covering. Be sure to extend more than a couple of inches higher. Fill in the open
attach the ledger so the lag screws hit into the ends of the area beneath the roof covering created at the side using a
rafter tails. full-width wood wedge and caulk. The roof covering must
retain a slight slope with no swales.

Preparing the Installation Site
Sealant tape
Sliding upper sash
Height
Screen
Length Width
Sliding lower sash
When attaching a sun porch directly to your exterior wall, install Sun porch kits with nonglass panels can be mounted on
2 6 or 2 8 edges and hang the roof support beams from practically any hard surface because they are light enough
it. Also install 2 4 vertical nailers beneath the ends of the that they do not require a reinforced floor. You do need to
edges for attaching the walls to the house. Ledgers also may be make sure the floor is level, however (see next page), and that
mounted to rafter ends in the eave area (see previous page). the base channels you lay out create square corners.
The Benefits of Roof Ventilation
Without roof vents, hot air is trapped in the sunroom, making it A single roof vent creates an escape route for hot air, allowing
uncomfortable for users and inhospitable to plants. you to regulate the temperature and keep the room cooler
during hot weather. Multiple roof vents increase the ventilation
efficiency, but increase the chances for leaks.

Options for Anchoring a Sun Porch
On concrete patios, attach the base
channel to the concrete surface with
Wedge anchor
masonry anchors. There are many
Base channel styles of anchors you can use. The
hardware shown here is a wedge
PT shim anchor that is driven into a hole drilled
Concrete through the base channel and into
the concrete. If your concrete slab is
not level, youll need to insert shims
underneath the base channel in
lowspots.
Make hole in concrete

with hammer drill and masonry bit.
Building a new ground-level deck isa

Base channel good way to create a stable floor for
your sun porch if your concrete patio is
Decking
in poor condition or if there is no other
floor structure in the installation area.
Attach pressure-treated 2 4 sleepers
to the concrete surface to create a
Anchor bolt raised surface to set the deck on.
PT 2 4
Slab
Set treated wood timbers onto a

Pavers concrete footing for a sturdy wall base
that you can attach to directly when
Lag bolt installing the base channels. The
footings should extend below your frost
Base channel
line to keep the structure from shifting,
Landscape timber but you can use a less permanent floor
system, such as sand-set pavers, if
youwish.
Optional concrete pier

to below frost
Anchor bolt

TOOLS & MATERIALS
4' level Tape measure Step ladder

Drill and bits Caulking gun 100% silicone caulk
Hex nut drivers (", 38") Rubber mallet Corrosion-resistant lagscrews and
#2 square screw (Robertson) bit Pressure-treated lumber (2 4, 2 6) washers (" 1", " 2")
Socket wrench set Exterior house paint Additional fasteners for securing
sunroom to house and
Chalk line Metal roof flashing
supportingsurface
Front eave
Height on wall
or fascia Upper sash
Right endwall
Front wall
Lower sash
3' Bays
3' Bays
Length
Width
SUN PORCH TERMS DOOR INFORMATION

Mounting surface: May be a level wood deck, concrete Door (included with kit) may be mounted in any front or
slab or patio. endwall bay.
Right and left endwalls: Reference point is with your back Door opening is 33" wide and 72" high.
to the house looking outwards. Door swings outward and can be hinged for left-hand or
Kneewall (not shown): A site-built wall used to increase right-hand operation.
the height of the structure.
How to Build a Sun Porch Kit
Install pressure-treated 2 4 vertical support cleats and a 2 6 horizontal support ledger onto the house wall, following the
manufacturers specifications (See page 125 for options). On nonlap siding, mount the support pieces directly over the siding.
For lap siding, cut away the siding and mount the ledger and support cleats over the wall sheathing and building paper. Paint
the ledger and cleats before installation, and add roof flashing over the header, leaving it unfastened until the sunroom roof is
completely assembled. Make sure the ledger is perfectly level and the vertical cleats are plumb.
COUNTERING SLOPE
Make sure the wood deck, patio, or other installation
base is level before installing the sunroom. If not, you
may need to install long wood wedges that fit under
the floor plates or take other corrective measures as
suggested in your installation manual.
Pressure-treated
shims Tape
Base channel
Level
4
3
2
1
2
Lay out the base channel pieces onto your surface in the
installation area. Join the pieces using the provided splice
brackets and screws. (continued)

3
Position the free ends of the base channel against the wall cleats. Use a 4' level to make sure the channel sections are level. If
necessary, use tapered shims to level the channel. Then, check the base frame for square by measuring diagonally from corner
to corner. Make adjustments as needed until the measurements are equal.
4 5
Fasten the base frame to the surface using a recommended To begin assembling the wall and roof structures, first join the
fastener at each of the predrilled mounting holes. Apply a bead endwall headers (the two outside rafters) and the rafters (the
of silicone caulk where the channel meets the surface on both interior rafters) to the front-wall columns using the provided
sides of the channel. Install the base channel vertical brackets mounting brackets and screws. Also install the mounting
to the base channels using the provided screws (inset photo). brackets onto the free ends of the headers and rafters; these
These brackets will join the vertical end-wall tubes and front- are used to mount the headers and rafters to the 2 6
wall columns to the base channel frame. support ledger (per step 1 on page 129) on the house wall.

6
Complete the endwall assemblies by joining the vertical wall tubes to the endwall headers using the provided hardware. Finally,
install the mullion brackets onto the sides of the rafters and endwall headers; these will join the horizontal mullions to the rafters
and headers to tie the roof frame together (see Step 11).
7 8
With a helper, raise one of the endwall assemblies into Anchor the endwall assemblies to the 2 4 support cleats
position and set the vertical tubes over the base channel and the 2 6 support ledger on the house wall. Use a level
brackets. Fasten the tubes to the brackets with screws. Install to position the vertical tubes perfectly plumb, and secure the
the other endwall assembly the same way. tubes to the cleats using the recommended fasteners driven
through the predrilled holes. Secure the endwall headers to
the 2 6 support header using the recommended fasteners.
(continued)

9
Snap a chalk line across the face of the 2 6 support ledger so the line is flush with the tops of the endwall headers. This line
corresponds to the tops of the rafters and the bottom edge of the top mullion pieces.
10
Working from one endwall to the other, position the first rafter-front column assembly in place, and secure the column to the
base channel using the provided screws. Then, install the horizontal mullions between the endwall header and the first rafter
using the provided screws. Repeat this process to install the remaining rafter assemblies and mullions.

Anchor the rafters to the 2 6 support ledger using the
recommended fasteners driven through the mounting
11 brackets you installed on the rafter ends in Step 6.
12
Install the top mullion pieces: Apply silicone caulk to the 26

support ledger to seal the vertical flange of the top mullions
to the ledger. Also caulk where the horizontal flanges of the
mullions will meet the endwall headers and rafters. Working
from the right endwall to the left, secure the top mullions to the
endwall headers and the rafters using the provided screws.
13 14
Install the header caps over the tops of the endwall headers; Install the eave mullions over the exposed ends of the rafters
these will help secure the roof glazing panels. First apply a and endwall headers. Apply caulk over the center of each
bead of caulk down the center of each header, stopping it 3" frame part and around each predrilled hole. Set the mullions
from the end of the header. Set each cap into the wet caulk into the wet caulk and secure them with screws.
and secure it with the provided screws. Install the rafter caps
following the same procedure. NOTE: Complete all additional caulking of the framing as
recommended by the manufacturer. (continued)

15 16
Prepare the roofing panels for installation by taping the ends. Apply adhesive foam gasket strips (provided) to the roof
Cover the top end of each panel with a strip of aluminum battens that will secure the glazing panels to the roof framing,
tape, and cover the bottom end with vented tape; both tapes following the manufacturers directions. Be careful not to pull
are provided. Follow the manufacturers instructions to install or stretch the gaskets. Also apply gaskets to the roof framing,
any optional roof vents. along the endwall headers, rafters, top mullions, and eave
mullions, as directed.
17
Remove the protective film from the first roofing panel, making sure the UV-protected side of the panel is facing up. With a
helper, place the panel on top of the endwall header and the adjacent rafter at one end of the roof. The panel should rest
against the eave mullion along the front wall.

Secure the outside edge and ends of
the panel with the appropriate battens,
18 using the provided screws. To fasten
battens to the eave mullion, first drill
pilot holes into the mullion, using the
predrilled batten holes as a guide.
Carefully caulk the panel and battens at
the prescribedlocations.
Position the next roofing panel ontothe

rafters, and secure it with battens. The
19 long, vertical batten covers both long
edges of the first two panels.
TIP: You have to reach across a panel

to fasten vertical battens. This is
easiest when you have a tall ladder
and use a magnetic nut driver on your
drill, which allows you to drive the
screws with one hand. Complete the
flashing details along the 2 6 roof
header as directed.
Install the remaining roofing panels,

following the same procedure. Be sure
20 to caulk the roofing carefully at all
prescribedlocations.
(continued)

TIP
21
Begin the wall section installation by adding a triangular
aluminum filler piece to the front section of each endwall.
Install the fillers with the provided brackets and screws, then
caulk along the top and ends of the fillers as directed.
22
The sunrooms door can go into any one of the wall
Apply sealant tape along the perimeter of the first section on sections. When choosing the location, plan for easy
the front wall. Press the strips of tape firmly together to create access to both the house and yard. Also consider how
a seal at each corner. the sunrooms layout will be affected by traffic flow into
and out of the door. The door itself always opens out,
TIP: Storing the roll of tape in the refrigerator prior to but it can be hinged on either the right or left side.
installation makes it easier to work with.

23
Determine the door location (see TIP, previous page). Install the first screen/window frame. Set the panel onto the base channel,
making sure the frames weep holes are at the bottom. Align the frame within the opening, and press inward firmly to seat it into
the sealant tape. Secure the frame with the provided screws. Install the remaining frames using the same techniques.
Install the
trapezoidal
24 windows under
the headers on
the endwalls.
Apply sealant
tape as before,
position the
window, then
secure it with the
provided screws.
(continued)

25
Complete the window installation by removing the bottom
and top sash of each window frame. Peel off the protective
film from the glazing, then reinstall each sash, following the
manufacturers directions.
26 27
Begin the door installation by fastening the door Decide which side of the door will be hinged. Align the hinge
threshold tothe base channel, using the provided bar (with door attached) to the markings on the vertical wall
screws. Then, addthe weatherstripping to the hinge tube or front column, drill pilot holes, and mount the door to
bar and latch bar pieces and the header piece. Trim the the column with screws.
excessweatherstripping.

28 29
Install the latch bar, leaving a 18" gap between the bar and Apply sealant tape to the door frame, and install the two glazing
the door edge. Install the header piece, also with a 18" gap. panels as directed. Add the decorative cover on each side of
Complete the door assembly to add the handle, sweep, and the door, seating it with a rubber mallet. If the door is located
closer, following the manufacturers instructions. on one of the endwalls, install the trapezoidal window above
the door, using the same techniques described in Step24.

TOOLS & MATERIALS
Drill/driver Roof I-beams
Circular saw Three-part ridge
Reciprocating saw polesupport
Power miter saw Ridge pole
(engineeredbeam)
Low-Maintenance Tape measure
Caulk gun Snap-in fascia
Sunroom Level Snap-in gutter
withdownspouts
Utility knife
Custom wall panels Moisture-resistant
he term sunroom can refer to many different floorcovering
T types of rooms, from conservatory-style networks
of metal frames and glazing that covers the roof as well
Custom doors withlatches
Roof panels Roof covering (shingles)
Aluminum floortrack Framing lumber
as the walls to just about any room in your house that
has banks of windows to introduce direct sunlight. Aluminum vertical Weatherproof
The sunroom shown in this project (see Resources, walltrack siliconesealant
page 236) is a three-season porch that encloses a Aluminum upper walltrack Hex-head screws (1", 2", 7")
second-story walk-out deck. The room is a modular kit
that was custom-fabricated to the homeowners exact
design and then assembled on site. Except for some The installers featured in this project are
custom framing work where the rooflines intersect, professional carpenters contracted by the sunroom
the installation was accomplished in a single day. seller. Custom sunrooms such as this can be ordered
Built from rigid PVC panels that fit into aluminum and installed by do-it-yourselfers as well. As a
frames, this sunroom measures 14 14 feet with percentage of the total package price you wont save a
a 10-foot gable peak. The sidewalls are 7feet high. lot by doing the labor yourself,however.
The underlying deck area is covered with plywood Although they are not seen in the photos, a
sheathing that will become a substrate for the number of electrical receptacles were installed in
finished floorhere, vinyl tiles. The glazing on the the sunroom floor. The feeder cables run back to
windows of the room is a clear vinyl fabric that can the house through conduit in the deck joist cavities,
stretch to absorb impact and accommodate seasonal because the solid foam panels in the walls and
changes in framework dimensions. ceilings do not readily accept cables.
To prepare for this new sunroom addition, an old deck was replaced with a new, beefier model. It features a sturdy staircase with
enough room on the left side of the addition for an open-air grilling area that is accessed through a door in the sunroom. Instead
of decking, the deck area in the sunroom installation area is covered with 34" tongue-in-groove plywood sheathing.

Before After

Low-Maintenance Sunroom Kit Parts
C
A
C
A
Aluminum tracks secure the prefabricated wall panels. Shown Fasteners for this sunroom include self-tapping hex-head screws
are sections of floor track (A), vertical wall track (B), and (1") with low-visibility white heads (A), insulation screws (7") with
upper wall track (C). 2"-dia. fender washers (B), and galvanized self-tapping hex-
head screws (2") with self-sealing EPDM rubber washers (C).
Clear vinyl glazing stretches under

impact and will not shatter or crack. PVC beadboard
It is also light enough in weight that
sunroom kits often can be installed
without structural reinforcement
that may be required for units with
glass-glazed windows. I-beam
OSB
Rigid foam
Roof panels come in varying thicknesses

depending on the thickness of the rigid
foam insulation board that is used (here,
4"). The narrow filler panel seen here
features washable PVC beadboard on the
Wall panels for sunroom kits consist of interior side to create a ready-to-go ceiling
rigid PVC frames with foam insulation in once it is installed. The exterior side of
the core. The window sash telescopes the panel is 58" oriented strand board
downward in four tracks to provide (OSB) to create a surface for installing
maximum ventilation when open. building paper and asphaltshingles.

How to Install a Low-Maintenance Sunroom
PVC flashing (isolation)

2
Install the aluminum floor track channels at the perimeter Prepare the house walls for installation of the vertical wall
of the installation area. Use a bead of weatherproof silicone tracks. Mark a cutting line on the siding at the track location
sealant and self-tapping, 2" hex-head screws with EPDM and remove siding so you can fasten the tracks to the
rubber washers to secure the track. Square layout lines wallsheathing.
should be marked prior to installation. If your plywood
substrate layer is treated with ACQ or copper azole wood TIP: Use a cordless trim saw with a standard blade installed
treatment, protect the aluminum tracks from corrosion by backward to cut vinyl siding.
installing an isolation layer of PVC flashing (sold in rolls).
4
Remove gutters and other obstructions from the installation Install the vertical wall track channels with silicone sealant
area. The exact requirements for this step depend on the and self-sealing screws. If the wall sheathing will not accept
configuration of your roof and how you will be tying into the screws and is not backed by plywood sheathing, you will need
roofline or wall to make space for the sunroomroof. to install sturdy wood or wood sheathing backers to secure
the track. (continued)

5 6
Install the first wall panel. In many cases, the first panel will Add the next panel according to the installation sequence
be a narrow filler strip that is simply a solid wall panel and diagram that comes with your kit. Make sure the panel is
does not contain windows. Install the panel by driving 1" self- plumb and then tack it into position by driving self-tapping
tapping screws through the floor track flanges and into the screws through the floor flange. The panels lock together at
bottom frame of the panel. Make sure the panel is plumb and the edges, which will hold them temporarily until the upper
firmly seated against the track. wall track can be installed. If you are working in windy
conditions, you may need to brace the panels.
Corner post
Upper wall track
Filler panel
7 8
Install a corner post at the first corner. The flange on the side Fit the upper wall track over the entire first wall after cutting
of the L-shaped post (inset photo) should capture the end it to length. The end of the track that joins with the track on
of the first wall's last wall panel. The second wall's first wall the next wall should be mitered to make a neat joint. If the
panel will fit into the other leg of the L. adjoining wall is gabled, this will mean making a relatively
tricky compound miter cut. Refer to your plan for the exact
angle and dont be shy about asking for help.

Ridge pole post
10
9
Continue installing panels on the second wall. If it is a gabled Install the remaining wall panels, creating corners and adding
wall, install panels up to the midpoint; then cut the three- upper wall tracks as you go. Frequently check for plumb
part, ridge pole support post to fit, and install it by driving and level, and make sure all panels are seated firmly in
screws through the post and into the wall panel. Make sure thetracks.
the saddle formed at the top of the post is sized to accept the
ridge pole.
11 12
Ridge pole
Mark the upper wall tracks at the gable for cutting by Set the ridge pole into the saddle in the ridge pole post, and
transferring the edges of the ridge pole saddle onto the ends adjust it until the overhang is correct. Check the length: if the
of tracks. Cut them to length and the correct angle with a pole does not end at the correct point on the other end, recut
power miter saw and metal cutting blade. Or, you can use an it or adjust your overhang amount. Secure the end by driving
old combination blade that you dont mind making dull. screws through the ridge pole post and into the ridgepole.
(continued)

Ridge pole
Wall cap plate
13
Secure the house-end of the ridge pole. Begin by installing a temporary post near the house wall that is the same height as the
bottom of the saddle opening in the ridge pole post. Make sure the ridge pole is level and then measure for attaching it to the house.
The exact method you use depends on the house structure. Here, the exterior wall that will support the ridge is set back 18" from a
pair of bay windows that are covered by the same roof. This means that the cap plate for the bearing wall that will support the ridge
pole is lower than the bottom of the pole. The distance is measured (left photo) and a 2 6 half-lap post anchor is constructed. The
anchor is nailed to the cap plate on the wall and then the ridge pole is attached to the anchor with deck screws (right photo).
14 15
I-beam
Begin installing roof panels. The full-width panels seen here Install I-beams on the roof next to the first roof panel. The
are 4' wide, yet they are strong enough to meet minimum track on one side of the I-beam should capture the leading
dead load (snow) requirements even in cold climates. The edge of the first roof panel. Attach the I-beam to the roof
panels are attached with long insulation screws that are fitted panel with self-tapping screws driven through the I-beam
with fender washers and driven into the ridge pole and upper flange and down into the OSB panel surface.
wall track.

Continue installing panels and I-beams until the roof is
complete. Complete one full side before beginning the other.
16
Add the next roof panel to the roof, sliding it into the open
side of the I-beam. Square the panel with the roof, and then
drive insulation screws down through the panel and into the
ridge pole and the upper wall track. Add the next I-beam and 17
fasten it with self-tapping screws.
18 19 20
Gutter
Install fascia and gutters. The materials Install the prehung doors by fastening Make finishing touches, such as
seen here are designed specifically to the door nailing flanges to the frames trimming off excess insect screening
work with the roof panel system of this that create the door opening. Make and painting or cladding the ridge
kit. The fascia snaps over the ends of sure the door is level and plumb before pole. If your sunroom does not have
the roof panels and is secured with driving fasteners. Attach the door a finished ceiling, add one (tongue-
screws. The gutters fit into tracks on the handle and latch. and-groove cedar carsiding is a good
fascia and are secured with screws. choice). Installfloorcoverings.

Special Section:
Upcycled
Greenhouses
&Cold Frames
he best greenhouse or cold frame is a free oneand

T one that doesnt use up valuable natural resources.
Repurposing waste materials into a backyard plant-
growing structure is a common-sense approach for the
environment and your pocketbook, keeping waste out of
the landfill and putting it to an ecologically productive
use. It doesnt hurt that reusing waste materials can also
mean saving a bundle of money. Along the way, you may
well expand your gardening repertoire.
There are many ways to upcycle materials into
a greenhouse or other plant-care structure. The
first step, though, is to understand exactly what
upcycling means.
Upcycling is the more efficient cousin to recycling.
Recycling involves using a lot of energy to break waste
materials, such as plastic bottles, down into their
fundamental ingredients and reform those ingredients
into new consumer goods (or even the same consumer
goods). Upcycling, on the other hand, is reusing waste
materials in their current forms as building blocks for
something completely different. This isnt a new or
novel conceptthe back-to-the-land movement and
homesteaders across the country have been turning
one mans trash into anothers treasure for decades.
The variety of trash that can be upcycled for use
as cold frames, greenhouses, hoophouses, or similar
garden structures is simply astounding. The structural
principles behind greenhouses and cold frames
naturally lend themselves to building with a host
of repurposed materials. The creative gardener can
upcycle straw bales, plastic bottles, old windows, old
tires, and even pruned tree branches.
SPECIAL SECTION: UPCYCLED GREENHOUSES &COLD FRAMES 149

Where to Start
ou need look no further than the local landfill
Y to see how the volume of our waste material is
overwhelming our ability to contain it. Efficient reuse
UPCYCLING RULES
The rules of upcycling are simple and straightforward.
of that material starts with filling a need. Looking
1. Dont scavenge from private property.
to build a full-blown greenhouse from reclaimed
waste? That will probably entail finding an outside 2. Safety first. Dont use unsafe materials or
source for reclaimed lumber and old windows. But methods, and dont create unsafe structures from
if your needs are more modestsuch as a cloche, a upcycledmaterials.
simple cold frame, or even a quick and easy raised 3. Dont create more waste than you reuse.
bedeverything you require may be right in your
4. Use whatever materials you recycle in as close to
own backyard, in the recycling bin, or the back
original form as possible.
of the garage. Plastic gallon jugs, plumbing odds
and ends, and lumber scraps can all be efficiently 5. The end product must have a functional purpose.
upcycled. Once youve got an idea of the structure or
structures you want to build, its time to search for the
appropriate rawmaterials. condemned building. Youll find usable wood, old
The ideal is always free. Check Craigslist windows, and possibly even plumbing scraps on the
(craigslist.org), the Freecycle Network ( freecycle. worksites of major remodeling projects. (Always ask
org), and the postings on local co-op or community before going into a dumpster on private property or
bulletin boards for free materials. The best source a job site.)
for free upcycle materials is the most unpleasant: If you cant find the material you need for free,
dumpster diving. Look behind large stores for you can often buy it at very low cost. Check the local
discarded pallets. Check the dumpsters at large- Yellow Pages for salvage companies, or visit local
scale demo projectssuch as a tear-down of a Habitat ReStore outlets.
CULTIVATION UNDER CLOCHE

Greenhouses, cold frames, and hoophouses are all fine for entire beds or large areas of the garden, but if you want to
protect just one or a few plants, a cloche can be the perfect solution. Cloche is the French word for bell, and the first
cloches were bell-shaped glass jars that produce-market vendors used to grow vegetables out of season for Parisian
restaurants and farmers markets. Today, manufacturers offer many lightweight, low-cost versions, from basic plastic
solar bells to aluminum-and-plastic lantern cloches. But really, a plastic milk jug or liter bottle will do the job just as well.
In addition, the screw-top lid on most plastic bottles gives a bit more control over how hot the plant gets. (In a traditional
cloche, you prop up the side to vent and cool the plant.) Keep in mind, however, that no matter what you use as a cloche,
its meant to simply extend the frost date of the plant, not grow it throughout thewinter.

The Materials
f you use your imagination, almost anything in the of a greenhouse. The bad news about bottles is also
I garbage can find a purpose elsewhere. But some
materials are naturally better suited to repurposing
good news for upcyclers: theyre everywhere, and few
people will complain if you collect them from recycling
for greenhouses and gardens than others. or garbage bins! (Make sure this is not illegal in your
Plastic bottles: There is an epidemic of plastic community; in some locales, recycled materials are a
bottles in America. Vastly more are produced than revenue stream for the civil government.)
are recycled, and they constitute much of the waste Pallets: Used wherever goods are transported in
quickly filling landfills (not to mention covering the bulk (which is to say everywhere), pallets are almost
as ubiquitous as plastic bottles. One broken board
ocean). Bottle plastic doesnt break down, so if a bottle
or cracked brace means a pallet is unusable for its
isnt reused or recycled, it will remain forever wherever
intended purpose, but it may still be usable for your
it lands. But the translucent structure and the fact that greenhouse. Pallets can be used whole, as a solid,
plastic doesnt breathe make this material ideal for level surface that can serve as the floor or workbench
repurposing in the garden. Plastic bottles can be used of a greenhouse, or they can be modified and used
as simple cloches (see the box on page 150), filled with to make potting tables, garden chairs, and even side
poor-quality soil, dirt, or other material and stacked walls for a greenhouse. Avoid using pallets that have
to create garden walls, and even used in the walls been treated with preservatives, fungicides, or other
Plastic bottles have largely become an environmental disaster. Modifying a pallet like thisremoving the center rails and
But they can be put to good use in the garden, protecting replacing them with 6-mil polyethylene sheetingis one of
small, vulnerable plants from cold snaps and extreme the many ways you can upcycle these handy throwaways.
temperature variations. The cap provides a vent that allows This crude window can be used as a building block to form
you to release hot air and humidity as necessary. walls and a roof for a greenhouse.

chemicals, and avoid those with paint on them if you Windows: Old windows are obvious choices for
can. On the other hand, keep an eye out for the mark crafting a greenhouse or cold frame. Its fairly easy
HTthat stands for Heat Treated, which means to find old storm windows or double-hung units
the pallet has been processed to kill any pathogens. that have been replaced with insulated windows.
Wood: Old fence wood, rescued deck boards, Look on Craigslist, or touch base with local window
discarded clapboard siding, and broken lumber contractors. The one drawback is that you can never
can all benefit the garden. Reclaimed wood can be be sure of what size youll get, so be ready to adapt
used in greenhouses, cold frames, and many other your plans. Wood-framed windows are the easiest
structures. The chances are that youll have to adapt to upcycle because its much simpler to drill, saw, or
the wood to your purpose, but a little sanding, ripping, modify wood. Metal and vinyl frame windows can
or sawing is a small price to pay for free wood. Even work, but youll need carbide drill bits and a bit more
wood scraps can be handy. Leftover 2 4 sections can patience. Single-pane windows without mullions are
be laminated together to form long 4 4 timbers for the best option, because they cast the least amount of
greenhouse foundations, skids, or raised bed walls. shadow on plants. If youre using reclaimed windows
Cut down damaged 2 wood for the slotted tops of for a greenhouse, youll also want the windows to be as
greenhouse workbenches or to use as stakes for the airtight as possible; your garden may be better served
frame of ahoophouse. if you take a little time and recaulk the windows before
If youre reclaiming wood from a much older integrating them into a cold frame orgreenhouse.
building or any that has been around for decades, Tires: Discarded car and truck tires represent an
keep in mind that the wood may be actual size rather environmental disaster. Not only do they take up a
than nominal sizein other words, what looks like a lot of room in landfills (and in many unofficial, illegal
44 may actually be 4 inches by 4 inches, rather than dumpsites), they are also slow to break down. Worse
3 inches by 3 inches. That may mean adjusting still, waste tires represent a significant fire hazard. The
building plans. Be leery of any wood that might good news? Its not hard to find discarded tires, and
have been treated with chemicals. For instance, old you can put them to work with little effort. The thick
railroad track ties were once quite popular for garden rubber surface of even worn tires is a great insulator.
bed borders, until gardeners realized that most of It also absorbs and holds heat, making it a fantastic
these have been treated with toxic, heavy-metal-based choice for a raised bed in a greenhouse, where it will
preservatives. The best woods to reclaim are naturally absorb heat all day and release it slowly at night.
pest- and rot-resistant varietiesspecifically cedar A tire is also a great way to protect a tender plant
and redwood, or any hardwood. or plants. Make a crude cold frame out of a tire by
You dont have to look far to find secondhand wood that can Old, discarded windows are the environmentally conscious
be reused in garden structures, but take steps to ensure old, greenhouse gardeners treasure. They can easily be turned
potentially toxic paint and finishes are removed before you into a simple cold frame, or combined to create a nearly
upcycle reclaimed wood. freegreenhouse.

A used tire makes a wonderful raised bed that can be Reclaimed granite curbstones can serve as a tremendous
placed where it is most convenient for the gardener. Inside foundation for a permanent greenhouse. They also make
a greenhouse, the rubber becomes a heat sink that releases attractive walls for raised beds.
heat after the sun goes down.
placing it over a plant and topping it with an old

window (cut away the side walls with a reciprocating
saw to increase the planting area). Lay the window
across the tire and use a bolster to prop it up when
you need to ventilate or cool the plant (or just cover
the top with plastic sheet secured with bricks).
You can also use a tire as a quick and easy potato
bed. Fill the tire with soil and plant the seed potatoes.
When the first growth breaks through the surface,
stack another tire on top and fill with soil.
Buckets: Buckets, specifically 5-gallon buckets, are
used to hold everything from bulk food ingredients
to drywall compound and much more. They are also
incredibly durable and wont break down in landfills.
You can use buckets as beds for deep-rooted plants
and even tree saplings, and they also make effective
heat sinks. Paint the bucket black, fill it with water,
and let the sun warm it all day; at night, it will slowly
release heat, preventing the greenhouse from cooling
too fast or too much. It might look like a chaotic mess of plumbing leftovers, but this
Stones: All kinds of reclaimed stone and brick can is actually a cold frame or greenhouse frame just waiting to be
be put to good use in the greenhouse and garden. Use rescued andassembled.
flagstone or brickespecially darker colorsfor the
floor of a greenhouse to incorporate a natural heat Plumbing pipe: A pile of old plumbing pipe and
sink. A brick or stone floor is also a stunning addition connectors might look like a mess, but look again.
to any greenhouse and one that creates a stable Plastic pipe can be used to fashion hoophouses and
surface on which to stand and work. You can make row cover frames. Old metal plumbing pipes and
wonderfully eye-catching raised beds inside or outside elbows can be repurposed into frames for cold frames
of a greenhouse with field stones or other irregularly and even for greenhouses. Any pipe can be crafted
shaped, uncut stones. A black bucket filled with river into a serviceable trellis to use along the back wall of a
rock or trap stone can be an efficient heatsink. greenhouse for vining or tall-growing plants.

Upcycled Projects
eparating your recyclables and
S putting them out in the proper
bin on the proper day is certainly an
environmentally conscientious step
in the right direction. But the rubber
really hits the road when you put
waste materials to work in your own
garden so that they never enter the
waste stream and no fuel is burned
in transportation or the recycling
processitself.
The projects that follow use a
range of reclaimed materials in some
surprisingly innovative ways. You can
take these right off the page and build
them yourself or use them as points of
departure for imagining new projects
that reuse your remodeling leftovers
and garage debris. In either case, keep
in mind that even as you break down
materials to make them work for the
structure youre building, the scraps
are reusable. Cutting down a PVC
pipe for a hoophouse? Cut the scraps
into stakes to use for a raised bed.
Have leftover lumber thats too short
to use for framing or a greenhouse
floor? Keep it handy for when you An old window (or two) is the perfect partner for straw bales,creating an easy,
want to build shelves or a small quick, and efficient cold frame. Construct the cold frame so the face is sloped to
pottingtable. face the best sun exposure.
A STRAW-BALE COLD FRAME

Straw bales are growing in popularity as a medium for gardening, but they can also serve as excellent insulated walls for a
cold-weather cold frame that you can assemble in minutes and move at a whim.
There are several ways to create the cold frame, but in every case, you start by building a stepped frame with a shorter wall
on the south side. Then its just a matter of deciding on your glazing material, which can be a totally opportunistic decision.
For example, do you have an old single-pane window that you meant to take to the dump? Dont. Lay it with one long edge
resting on the north wall of your bales, nestled into between the two side walls. Prop the window up as necessary to vent
or cool down the plants inside. You can use the same idea with a role of plastic sheeting over a plumbing pipe or lumber
scrap framejust roll the sheet up or down as needed to modulate the temperature inside the cold frame.

USING CLEAR PLASTIC BOTTLES FOR GREENHOUSE PANELS
Building panels out of plastic bottles may be a bit labor intensive, but its a perfect upcycle use. Passive solar panels
made from ordinary clear plastic bottles can be used for everything from a top cover for a cold frame box to the entire
wall and roof panels for full greenhouse. No matter what the scale, its also a wonderful school project or weekend event
for a group of kids because the actual work itself is so simple, plus its a hands-on way to teach them the importance of
recycling and reusing. The more kids, the merrier.
Start by collecting the bottles you need. Its easy to find them in abundance in curbside recycling bins on collection day,
inside the dumpsters in back of restaurants, or in the garbage cans at outdoor music events or other public gatherings.
(As noted previously, make sure this is legal where you live.)
Its essential to clean the bottles inside and out to avoid attracting insects. Strip any labels off the plastic to ensure that a
maximum amount of light passesthrough.
Begin by creating whatever kind of frame for greenhouse structure youre planning. At the large end of the scale, you can
frame out a simple gable or shed-roof greenhouse using reclaimed wood, scraps leftover from other projects, or other
material you have on hand. The greenhouse shouldnt be largethe finished project will have too many gaps for air and
water penetration for the structure to function as a fully fledged greenhouse. However, on sunny days, it will be able to
maintain an interior temperature about 40 degrees warmer than the outside air.
Once you have built whatever frame you are using, you can begin assembling the simple columns that will compose
various panels. You can use poles made from -inch to 1-inch dowels, leftover metal conduit, bamboo canes, straight
and thin branches, rebar, or even wire. No matter what you make them from, the poles need to be long enough to span
the framemembers.
Cut the bottoms of the bottles off and

thread them onto the pole, nesting each
additional bottle over the one below.
Attached the completed poles to the
framing at each end with pipe clamps.
As mentioned, the resulting surfaces

will necessarily have gaps, but the
cumulative effect of the enclosure will
be to allow light through while keeping
temperatures high.
Once you cut the bottoms off of the

plastic bottles, theyll stack easily on
whatever youre using for a pole. In our
example, the plastic-bottle panel will be
used as a simple cold-frame top to cover
a small raised bed garden.

Old-Window Greenhouse
ld, discarded windows are just about the most base ensures that no matter what windows you reuse,
O obvious choice for reuse in upcycled greenhouses.
As homeowners across the country upgrade to
theyll be well supported. Weve also used fiberglass
panels, which are widely available and simple to
insulated windows, older windows are relegated to install, for the roof.
the junk heap. These include wood-framed units When creating a design such as this, using mostly
that have seen better days, aluminum-framed storm recycled materials, its a great idea to lay the windows
windows that are no longer needed, and even vinyl- and framing studs out on a big, flat work surface
clad insulated windows that have come to the end of for example, a garage floor or expanse of lawn. If
their lifespan. You can find them in dumpsters, piled youre not necessarily good with the nitty-gritty of
up on remodeling job sites, for sale cheaply through detailed measurements and nominal lumber sizes,
salvage companies, and online through various this can be a way to verify that everything will fit and
sourcesoften for free. to make quick adjustments without having to tear
The trick to reusing these windows for a things apart. Whatever the case, its always wisest
greenhouse is that you have to take what you get. to try to find multiple windows in the same size;
Sizes vary, sometimes radically. The design shown cobbling together windows of odd sizes throughout
here is typical, featuring a small footprint and a simple the structure can lead to a nightmare and create an
shed roof. The recycled windows used are 28 inches unstable and unsafe greenhouse.
wide by 62 inches high; the larger windows are used That said, any upcycling project involves certain
in the walls, and the smaller are used in the roof. In compromises. This greenhouse will not be as airtight
both cases, these instructions assume wood-framed as most polycarbonate panel or plastic-film kit
units. Wood framing is always best when it comes to greenhouses would be (and certainly not as much
adapting old glazing to a new hobby greenhouse, but of a high-quality custom structure), so it is at best
you have to make sure that the wood is in good shape. going to serve you as a three-season structureit just
The lumber used is all of common sizes and should be wouldnt be cost effective to heat it over a cold winter.
readily available through salvage companies or from You can make the structure a little more efficient
job sites. The design can be scaled up or adapted to by recaulking the window panes in wood-framed
different sizes of windows fairly easily, as the framing windows and covering smaller openings or gaps
details have intentionally been left somewhat crude between the windows in the roof and the wall top
to allow adaptation without a lot of fuss. A kneewall plates withplastic.
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Cordless power drill and Stepladder Finish nails Level
bits Clear silicone caulk Circular saw Speed square
Claw hammer Construction adhesive 12" spikes Wood screws (2", 3")
Paintbrush Caulk gun Jigsaw 1" screws
Sealant or paint Nails (6d, 8d) Tamper Rubber washers

Build a greenhouse of old windows and you not only save money, but you also create a distinctive structure that puts a dumpster
worth of waste materials to great use.

How to Build an Old-Window Greenhouse
Inspect all of the windows
for significant defects
you might have missed 1
during the reclaiming
process. Look for rust,
excessive warping, and
hidden insect damage
or rot (if youre using
wood-framed units).
Clean up the windows
and sand or use a wire
wheel to remove loose or
flaking finishes or rough
areas. Paint the frames
with primer or coat with
preservative. Fasten the
44 frame together
by joining the timbers
at the corner with 12"
spikes, countersunk.
Measure and mark
the trenches for 44
foundation timbers. Dig
them 4" deep and fill
with crushed gravel.
Tamp the gravel down
allaround.
2 3
Check the frame for level on all sides, side by side, and Working on a clean, flat surface such as the lawn here, lay
diagonally. Add or remove gravel under the foundation to level out and build one side wall. Nail the sole and top plates to the
any one side. studs after ensuring that each stud is at a 45 angle to the
plate with a speed square.

4 5
Raise the wall, check for plumb, and brace it into position. Once the two side walls are constructed and nailed in position,
Nail the sole plate to the foundation timber with 8d nails. build and raise the rear (nondoor) wall into place and nail it to
the foundation 4 4.
6 7
Screw the
walls together
at the corners
Screw 2 4 28" spreaders in the stud cavities of the
with 3"
side and back walls. Toe-screw the spreaders on the inside
woodscrews.
edges and face-screw through the corners (inset). The tops
of spreaders should be 32" above the 4 4 base, faces flush
with the outside edges of the wall studs. (continued)

Face-nail a
2 4 cedar
ledger around 8
the perimeter of
the greenhouse
so that the top
of the ledger
is flush with
the tops of the
24spreaders.
Use a jigsaw to
cut notches in 5/4
cedar decking to 9
use as window
sills on top of
thespreaders.
Dry-fit the cedar

sills and then
miter the corners 10
if the fit is correct.
Coat the tops of
the spreaders
with construction
adhesive and nail
the cedar sills in
place with exterior
finish nails.

11 12
Lay a thin bead

of clear silicone
caulk into the
Miter-cut retainer strips from " quarter-round stock for the
retainer strip
window openings. Drill pilot holes for nailing, then coat the
channel for the
bottom faces of the strips with construction adhesive and
first window.
nail them in place with exterior finish nails. You may have to
adjust for the windows you reclaim. The windows here varied
in height by up to ".
13 14
With a helper, carefully and evenly set the window into Pin the window in place with small brads to allow the silicone
position. Have the helper hold the window in place for the to set. Repeat the installation process with the rest of the
next step. windows for the three walls. (continued)

15 16 17
Measure and cut 2 6 fascia boards Measure and cut 1 3 cedar strips to Measure and cut " exterior grade
for the top of each wall. Use 3" 6d run between the fascia at the top and plywood for the half-wall cladding at the
galvanized nails to tack the board to the the sill. Drill pilot holes and nail the bottom of each wall. Nail it in place with
top plates of the wall all the way around. strips in place on the studs with 3" 2" 6d nails.
The fascia should cover any gaps at the 6dnails.
tops of the windows.
18 19 20
Measure and cut 2 4 cedar base trim, Frame the front wall (12" higher than the Use 2" deck screws to toe-screw the
1 3 cedar corner boards, and 1 3 side walls) in place by measuring and front cripple studs for the triangular top
cedar battens. Nail them in place with marking stud and doorjamb positions walls on both sides.
exterior finish nails, positioning the and toe-nailing the members in place.
battens between the base trim and the Nail the top cap to the top of the studs
underside of the sill, continuing the and install the door header. Install the
vertical line of the stile trim. door so that it opens outward.

21 22 23
Measure and cut the other cripple studs Measure and cut the 2 4 rafters and Measure and cut the 2 2 purlins for
in each top wall and toe-screw them in toe-screw them running front wall the gaps between the rafters. Toe-screw
place with 2" deck screws. Check that to back wall. There should be a 6" them in place, spaced 11" on center.
each is plumb and square to the top overhang on both ends.
plate. Miter each end of the top plates
and screw them to the cripple studs on
each wall.
24 25
Cut and screw the fiberglass panel
nailing strips to the top of eachpurlin.
Drill pilot holes for the fiberglass panels and screw them in
place to the purlins using 1" screws and rubber washers.
Paint or stain the exterior of the greenhouse and, if using in a
cooler season, cover all the clerestory windows with 68 mil
plastic sheeting stapled in place.

Old-Window Portable Cold Frame
simple, portable cold frame to avoid the extra work, switch the frame configuration so that the sides
A can be incredibly useful in
the early-spring garden (or, in
are positioned inside the front and back frames. The window top will
still close along the slope, although the seal on the front and back will be
some cases, the late-fall garden). slightly less secure.
Depending on where you live,
youll realize an extra six to eight
weeks of growing timea chance TOOLS & MATERIALS
to get a big head start on your
garden and harden off seedlings. Tape measure (1) stainless-steel sash handle Sandpaper
This cold frame will do the Table saw or jigsaw 2" galvanized screws Caulk
job well without taking a bite out Power drill and bits 6d galvanized nails Paint
of your pocketbook. It is built (3) 4" galvanized T-hinges Speed square Paintbrush
with reclaimed 1 6 cedar fence
boards and scrap pressure-treated
2 4 braces, and the top is a
2436-inch salvaged wood-frame
window. But keep in mind that you
can use this design as a baseline;
this is somewhat smaller than
most cold frames, which makes it
more portable, but it may not be
suited to a large garden bed. Its
easy to alter the measurements
to suit whatever window you
happen to useor even a glass
door. You can also use a vinyl-clad
window or aluminum-framed unit,
although they will both make the
box less attractive in the garden.
Or, for a sturdier box, use 2 6
reclaimed lumber. That will make
the cold frame much less portable
but better suited to take abuse
from the elements, pets, and
smallchildren.
The design here includes
mitered top edges along the
length of the front and back
frame members, which allows
the window to close flush to the
surface. If you arent equipped to Why build just one old-window cold frame when you can build an entire bank of
make those miters or just prefer them, like this greenhouse owner did?

D
B
E
D C
A C
E
B
This old-window cold frame can be

CUTTING LIST built with materials found on most any
home renovation site, or you may even
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL have them in the back of your garage
orbasement.
A Sloped side frame 2 5 23" Cedar
B Side frame base 2 5 23" Cedar
C Front & back frame 3 5 34" Cedar
D Rear frame posts 2 1 3 10" PT
E Front frame posts 2 1 3 7" PT

How to Build an Old-Window Portable Cold Frame
1 2
Inspect a 1 6 fence board, at least

24" long, to ensure that it is straight
and free of defects. Measure from one
corner, down 24" to the bottom edge
of the board, creating a right-angle
triangle. Use a speed square to mark
a straight line up from the bottom
point of the triangle (the lower tip of
thehypotenuse). Cut the board along Stand a rear frame board with the face flush to the back edge of the sloped side
the marked lines to make the sloped frame piece. Mark the angled bevel cut on the edge of the rear frame board. Repeat
tops of the side frames. the process with the front frame board.
Use a table saw adjusted to the correct angle, or a jigsaw set to the miter, to bevel-cut the top edges of the front and back
frameboards. Drill pilot holes in the edges of the framing pieces, two for each board, at each joint. Tack the frame together with 6d
common nails. Check to make sure that the window youve reclaimed fits the frame perfectly and make any adjustments if it does not.

4
5
Hold each back post in place and mark a cutting line along the sloped side frame.
Do the same with the front posts. Use a table saw or handsaw and miter box to Drill pilot holes and screw the posts in
make the angled cuts on each post. place in each corner of the box.
6 7
Clean up the window, sanding rough spots as necessary, and Mark the placement of the three hinges and screw them to the
recaulking the window if needed. Prime and paint the window window frame and rear box frame. Measure and mark for the
(paint it a darker color to absorb heat during the day and sash handle on the front of the frame and screw it in place.
release it at night). If desired, cut a 1 scrap piece to about 15" long to use as a
support post to hold the window open when you work in the
cold frame.

Tree Branch Hoophouse
his rudimentary structure bridges the gap between a full-blown same diameter all along their
T greenhouse and a simple hoop-row cover frame. It follows many of
the guiding principles of the Old-Window Greenhouse (page 156)its
length. Ideal branches are hard
to find, though, and it is perfectly
lightweight, its easy to assemble, it uses mostly upcycled components, acceptable to form each hoop from
and it should be exceedingly inexpensive to build. shorter branches bent over from
There are tradeoffs, of course. This hoophouse is somewhat less each side and lashed together at
durable than it would be if it were made with PVC hoops and thicker, the top. This is the method used in
clear, new lumber. If durability is important to you, you might want to ourexample.
upgrade to 2 lumber in place of the 1 members specified, and it would Dont be fooled by the modest
definitely be a good idea to anchor the hoophouse if you live in a region footprint of this hoophouse.
where strong winds or curious wildlife arefactors. There is enough room inside to
The goal throughout is to make the most of scraps and project grow an ample bed of edibles
odds and ends. You may have even better ideas than the upcycled or ornamentals, and the height
materials specified in this project. Dont be afraid to be imaginative. allows for tall plants. If, however,
The baseboards may come from old deck fascia, torn-down fences, or youd prefer to cover a larger area,
clapboard siding from a defunct building. Branches serve as the hoops, its simple to scale the structure up.
and they will probably be the most challenging building material to Just increase it in foot increments,
find. If you dont have mature trees that need pruning in your yard, you adding one branch hoop per foot.
can usually find suitable branches in a forest or woods. (Consider it a
good reason for a hike!) If possible, look for ideal branches are at least
10feet long, green enough to be supple and flexible, and roughly the
TOOLS & MATERIALS
Level
Scissors
Tape measure
Circular saw
Hacksaw
Power drill and bits
2" galvanized screws
Loppers
Sandpaper
(4) 1" steel round conduitbrackets
(20) galvanized pipe clamps (sized
to match PCV stakes)
Zip ties
Wood mallet
Staple gun and staples
Look for green, freshly cut branches to 1" in diameter. If you can find 10-footers, 2 rolls 6-mil polyethylenesheeting
that's perfect; otherwise, lash shorter ones together as shown in this project.

A simple hoophouse like this, formed of branches and reclaimed lumber, can be a wonderful addition to any garden for little or
no cost.

How to Build a Tree Branch Hoophouse
1 2
Clear the hoophouse site of large rocks and yard debris. On Use a hacksaw to cut the PVC pipe scraps to 8" long (they can
a clean, flat surface, assemble the base frame by drilling be longer, but not shorter). Cut one end of each pipe scrap on
pilot holes through the frame edges and screwing the frame the diagonal at a severe angle to create a stake point.
together with 2" galvanized screws. Cut individual branches
with loppers to length as necessary. Cut off or sand down any
protrusions that might puncture the plastic.
3 4
Attach the PVC pipes to the inside frame faces, spacing them Move the base frame to the final site. Check that the frame
1' apart. Use two pipe strap clamp brackets per pipe. The is level and square by measuring diagonals and adjust as
pipes should project about 1" above the top edge of the necessary. Use a wood mallet to hammer the PVC stakes into
frameside. the ground, alternating sides, until the frame is secure.

6
5
Install the branch hoops by placing one end of each branch Lay the ridge pole along the top edge of the frame base side
in a PVC stake and slowly bending the other ends across the and mark the positions of the PVC pipe stakes on the branch.
top. Secure the branches together at the top with several zip Cut slight notches at the marks with a jigsaw. Lay the ridge
ties. The branches should hold securely in the stakes with branch across the hoops so they fit into the notches and zip-
friction, but if any of them wants to pop out, drive a screw tie the hoops to the ridge pole.
through the side of the PVC stake and into the branch.
7 8
Position each front and back support in place with one end Drape the hoops with the plastic sheeting. Cut the sheet to fit,
against the ground on the inside of the frame and the other then either double-fold the edges and staple them to the base
against the end hoops. Mark cutting lines where the end frame or let them flow over onto the ground and secure them
hoops intersect the tops of the supports, then cut the front with bricks. Cut a smaller piece of plastic to use as a door
and back supports to fit. Screw the front and back supports flap, and staple it into place.
to the frame at the bottoms, and secure the top to the hoops
with conduit brackets.

Bamboo Trellis
amboo is an ideal material for building custom
B trellises and other structures to support climbing
plants in your greenhouse. Bamboo poles are
lightweight, strong, and naturally decay-resistant.
And because its a giant grass and in its natural form,
bamboo looks right at home in any greenhouse.
In this easy project, youll learn the traditional
technique of constructing with natural bamboo poles
and lashing twine. The trellis shown is freestanding and
is held upright with rebar rods driven into the ground.
Its easy enough to find bamboo in plentiful amounts
because its rugged and invasive. The thin canes you need
for this project should be simple to come by (we painted
the bamboo in this project red to show detail), although
if you cant find any, youll be able to buy the bamboo.
Bamboo poles are sold through online retailers,
local bamboo suppliers (where available), import
stores, and some garden centers. The poles come in
sizes ranging from about to 5 inches in diameter
and in lengths up to 20 feet or so. Of course, the
diameters are approximate and variable, since this is a
natural product. For this project, the vertical supports
are 1 inches in diameter and the horizontal and
vertical crosspieces are 1 inch indiameter.
While bamboo can survive many years of exposure
to the elements, a bamboo trellis is lightweight enough
that you can simply pull it off of its supports and store it
over winter. Ground contact or burial of bamboo poles
does lead to premature rot, so its a good idea to prop
A bamboo trellis like this is great for bolstering any climbing
up the trellis poles on stones or brick to prevent ground plant. You can build a taller version for pole beans and other
contact. A small pile of stones nicely hides the rebar and aggressive climbers or add more crosspieces or weave kite
creates an attractive base around each support pole. string between poles to support delicate vines.
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Tape measure Pencil (2) 5' bamboo poles 2' length of #2 rebar
Hacksaw Level (1"-dia.) ormetal rod
Hammer Waxed lashing twine (4) 4' bamboopoles Stones
(1"-dia.) Eye and ear protection
Scissors (3) 5' bamboo poles
(1"-dia.) (3) 3' lengths of#3 rebar Work gloves
Hand maul

How to Build a Bamboo Trellis
1 2
Node
Trim off the top end of each vertical pole just above a node, Measuring from the trimmed top ends of the vertical poles,
using a hacksaw. The solid membrane of the node will serve cut the two outer support poles to length at 48", and cut the
as a cap to prevent water from collecting inside the pole. four vertical crosspieces at 36". The middle support pole and
Trim the three 1"-diameter vertical support poles and four horizontal crosspieces should be about 60" long; cut them to
1"-diameter vertical crosspieces. length only if necessary.
3 4
Break out the nodes in the bottom ends of the three vertical Mark the poles for positioning, using a pencil; these are layout
support poles, using a hammer and #2 rebar or other metal marks that represent the pole intersections. Mark the vertical
rod, shaking out the broken pieces as you work. Remove any support poles at 12" and 36" from the bottom ends. On each
nodes within the bottom 18" of each pole. horizontal crosspiece, make a mark at the center and at 6",
14", and 22" from each end. Finally, make a mark at 6" from
TIP: If the first node is close to the end, it might help to each end of the vertical crosspieces.
drill several holes through the node before breaking it out. (continued)

LASHING TECHNIQUE
Bottom cane
Top cane
1. Fold a 4'-long piece 2. Pull both ends of 3. Pull the twine ends 4. Cross the twine
of waxed twine in half the twine across the back up and cross underneath the joint,
and wrap it around the top cane and cross them over the forming an X.
bottom cane. them underneath the topcane.
bottomcane.
5. Lift the ends up and 6. Wrap the bottom cane 7. Wrap the bottom cane 8. Tie a square knot
make an X across the from below and then on the other side of and then trim off the
top of the joint. across the top, next to thejoint. twineends.
thejoint.
6
Lay out the poles onto a flat work surface, starting with the Lash the crosspiece to each support pole, using a 60"-long
vertical support poles. To facilitate the lashing process, let piece of waxed lashing twine; see LASHING TECHNIQUE,
the bottom ends of the poles overhang the edge of the work above. When each lashing is complete, trim the excess twine
surface beyond the lower layout marks. Position the bottom withscissors.
horizontal crosspiece on top of the support poles using the
layout marks for positioning.

7 8
Position the completed trellis framework

in the desired location of the garden
or planting bed. The back sides of
the vertical support poles should face
away from the planting area. Press
down on the framework so the vertical
Lash the remaining horizontal crosspiece at the upper marks on the support poles. support poles make an impression in
Position the vertical crosspieces on top of the horizontals, and lash the poles the soil, marking the locations of the
together at each intersection. rebarspikes.
9 10
Drive a 36" length of #3 rebar (or other size that fits snugly Set stones, bricks, or other bits of masonry material
inside the vertical support poles) into the soil at each pole aroundeach piece of rebar. Fit the ends of the vertical
impression, using a hand maul. Use a level to check the bar support poles over the rebar so they stand squarely on
for plumb as you work. Drive the bars 18" into the soil. the stones. Check the trellis with a level and adjust for
squareness or plumb, as needed, by adding or moving
thestones.

Greenhouse
Companion
Projects
he projects in this section all contribute to the

T function of a greenhouse. Some, such as planters
and trellises, can be used either inside or outside
the greenhouse. Others, such as the cold frame on
page 178 or the Seed Starter Rack on page 198, are
independent but can be used in tandem with the
greenhouse to garden year-round. All of the projects
will make your garden a more productive and
enjoyable place to work. Keep in mind that many of
these projects can be executed with materials left
over from a greenhouse project. Its often wisest to
start out by building the greenhouse you want, and
then you can turn to the structures that best support
that particular greenhouse.
In this chapter:
Cold Frame Box
Jumbo Cold Frame
Raised Planting Bed
Raised Planting Bed & Cover
Seed Starter Rack
Greenhouse Workbench
Built-In Potting Bench
Simple Potting Bench
High-Low Potting Bench
Lettuce Table
Trellis Planter
Planter with Hanging Trellis
Solar Produce Dryer
GREENHOUSE COMPANION PROJECTS 177

Cold Frame Box
n inexpensive foray into greenhouse gardening, If the frame is permanently sited, position it
A a cold frame is practical for starting plants six
to eight weeks earlier in the growing season and for
facing south to receive maximum light during
winter and spring and to offer protection from wind.
hardening off seedlings. Basically, a cold frame is a box Partially burying it takes advantage of the insulation
set on the ground and topped with glass or plastic. from the earth, but it also can cause water to
Although mechanized models with thermostatically collect, and the direct soil contact will shorten the
controlled atmospheres and sashes that automatically lifespan of the wood frame parts. Locating your
open and close are available, you can easily build a frame near a wall, rock, or building adds additional
basic cold frame yourself from materials you probably insulation and protection from the elements. Keep
already have around the house. an inexpensive thermometer in a shaded spot inside
The back of the frame should be about twice as the frame for quick reference. A bright spring day
tall as the front so the lid slopes to a favorable angle can heat a cold frame to as warm as 100 degrees
for capturing sunrays. Build the frame tall enough Fahrenheit, so prop up or remove the cover as
to accommodate the maximum height of the plants necessary to prevent overheating. And remember,
before they are removed. The frame can be made of the more you vent, the more you should water. On
brick, block, plastic, wood, or just about any material cold nights, especially when frost is predicted, cover
you have on hand. It should be built to keep drafts out the box with burlap, old quilts, or leaves to keep it
and soil in. warm inside.
A cold frame is positioned over tender plants early in the growing season to trap heat and moisture so they get a good, strong
start. This cold frame doesnt rely on finding old windows for the top, so anyone can build it.

COLD FRAME BOX
D, E
A A B C
D F D
TOOLS & MATERIALS E

(2) 3 3" butt hinges (ext.)
Exterior paint
(2) 4" utility handles
Deck screws (2" or 2")
(4) Corner L-brackets ( 2") CUTTING LIST
#8 " wood screws KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
(1) " 4 8' plywood (ext.) A Side 2 16/28 36" Ext. Plywood
Circular saw B Front 1 16 36" Ext. Plywood
1
8 37 38" clear Plexiglas C Back 1 28 36" Ext. Plywood
Drill/driver D Lid frame 2 4 31" Ext. Plywood
Exterior caulk/adhesive E Lid frame 2 4 38" Ext. Plywood
Caulk gun F Cover 1 8 37 38"

1
Plexiglas
Pipe clamps
Exterior wood glue
Straightedge cutting guide
Eye and ear protection
Work gloves
How to Build a Cold Frame Box
Cut the parts. This project, as dimensioned, is designed to be

made entirely from a single 4 8 sheet of plywood. Start by
cutting the plywood lengthwise to make a 36"-wide piece.
2
TIP:Remove material in 4" wide strips and use the strips to Cut the parts to size with a circular saw or jigsaw and
make the lid frame parts and any other trim you may want cutting guide. Mark the cutting lines first (See Diagram,
toadd. previouspage).
3 4
Assemble the front, back and side panels into a square box. Reinforce the joints with 2 or 2" deck screws driven through
Glue the joints and clamp them together with pipe or bar countersunk pilot holes. Drive screws every 4 to 6" along
clamps. Adjust until the corners are square. eachjoint.

5
Make the lid frame. Cut the 4"-wide strips of " plywood
reserved from step 1 into frame parts (2 @ 31" and 2 @ 38").
Assemble the frame parts into a square 38 39" frame. There
are many ways to join the parts so they create a flat frame.
6
Because the Plexiglas cover will give the lid some rigidity,
simply gluing the joints and reinforcing with an L-bracket at Paint the box and the frame with exterior paint, preferably in
each inside corner should be more than adequate structurally. an enamel finish. A darker color will hold more solar heat.
7 8
Lay thick beds of exterior adhesive/caulk onto the tops of the Move the cold frame to the site. Clear and level the ground
frame and then seat the Plexiglas cover into the adhesive. Clean where it will set if possible. Some gardeners like to excavate
up squeeze-out right away. Once the adhesive has set, attach the site slightly.
the lid with butt hinges and attach the handles to thesides.

TOOLS & MATERIALS
Circular saw Roofing screws
or miter saw withEPDMwashers
Cordless drill and bits (2) 3" exterior-grade butt
Hacksaw hinges withscrews
Jumbo Cold Frame Deck screws (2", 2",3")

(5) " 10' thin wall PVC
(2) 4" eyebolts
3 516" stainless-steel
pipes (the flexible type machine bolts (2 bolts
used for lawn irrigation, with 8washers and
cold frame of any size works on the same principle
A as a greenhouse, capturing sunlight and heat
while protecting plants from cold winds and frost. But
not schedule 40 type)
(2) 25 96" corrugated
2nuts)
(2) Heavy-duty hook-and-
when your planting needs outgrow a basic backyard polycarbonate eye latches
cold frame with a window-sash roof, it makes sense roofingpanels Outdoor thermometer
to look to the greenhouse for more comprehensive 30 24" clear acrylicpanel withremote sensor
design inspiration. This jumbo version offers over 16" treated stakes Work gloves
17 square feet of planting area and combines the Screwdriver Eye and ear protection
convenience of a cold frame with the full sun exposure
of a greenhouse. Plus, theres ample height under the
cold frames canopy for growing taller plants. The base of the cold frame is a simple rectangle
The canopy pivots on hinges and can be propped made with 2 6 lumber. You can pick it up and
all the way up or partially opened to several different set it over an existing bed of plantings, or give it a
permanent home, perhaps including a foundation
positions for ventilating the interior to control
of bricks or patio pavers to protect the wood from
temperature. The hinges can be separated just like
ground moisture. For additional frost protection
door hinges (in fact, they are door hinges), so you and richer soil for your seedlings, dig down a foot
can remove the canopy for the off season, if desired. or so inside the cold frame and work in a thick layer
Clear polycarbonate roofing panels make the canopy of mulch. Because all sides of the canopy have clear
lightweight yet durable, while admitting up to glazing, you dont have to worry about orienting
90percent of the suns UV rays (depending on the the cold frame toward the sun; as virtually all of the
panels you choose). interior space is equally exposed to light.
A cold frame can extend the growing

season in your garden to almostor
trulyyear-round. Use an oversized
cold frame like the one in this project
and there may be no need to put
up vegetables in the fall, because
youll have all the fresh produce you
canhandle.

BUILDING A JUMBO COLD FRAME
CUTTING LIST
A Frame side 2 1 x 2 x 94" 2x3
B Frame end 2 1 x 2 x 30" 2x3
C Base side 2 1 x 5 x 94" 2x6
D Base end 2 1 x 5 x 30" 2x6
E Frame brace 4 1 x 2 x 8" 2x3
F Prop stick 2 x 1 x 30" 1x2
G Rib 4 x x 37" PVC tubing
G G
G
Closure Strip B
E
G
A
F
C A
B E
F
How to Build a Jumbo Cold Frame
Drill pilot holes and fasten the frame
end pieces between the frame side
pieces with 3" deck screws to create 1
the rectangular frame. Do the same
with the base pieces to create the
base. Use two screws for each joint.
Stabilize the corners of the canopy

frame with braces cut to 45 angles
at both ends. Install the braces on- 2
the-flat, so their top faces are flush
with the tops of the canopy frame.
Drill pilot holes and fasten through
the braces and into the frame with
one 2" screw at each end. Then,
drive one more screw through the
outside of the frame and into each
end of the brace. Check the frame
for square as you work.
Assemble the canopy glazing

framework using " PVC pipe.
Cut all the ribs 37" long. You can 3
cut these easily with a miter saw,
hacksaw, orjigsaw.

Use 2" deck screws as receptors for
the PVC pipes. Drive the screws in
4 1" from edge and " from the ends,
angling the screws at about 35 to
45 toward the center. Leave about
" of the screw exposed. Drive two
additional screws in at 32" from
each end.
Install the PVC ribs by putting one

end over the 2" screw, then curving
5 the PVC until the other end fits
over the opposite screw. Take your
time with this, and use a helper if
youneed.
NOTE: Hopefully youve

remembered to buy the flexible
PVC, not the Schedule 40 type
used for indoor plumbing.
Hold up and mark a smooth piece

of clear acrylic for the end panels.
6 The clear acrylic should cover the
2 3 and follow the curving top of
the PVC. Cut the clear acrylic with a
plastic-cutting jigsaw blade.
(continued)

Drill " holes along the bottom of
both panels about 58" up from the
edge of the panel. Space the holes 7
2" from ends, then every 16".
Also mark and drill rib locations on
the roof panels about 6" up from
bottom, spacing the holes at 158"
and 33" from each end. Install the
panels 1" up from the bottom of
the 2 3 with the roofing screws.
The ends of the panels should
extend 1" beyond the 2 3s.
Adjust the PVC ribs until the

predrilled holes in the roof panels
are centered on them, then predrill 8
the PVC with a 18" bit. Fastenthe
panels to the two center ribs.
Lap the second sheet over the first,

leaving roughly the same amount
of panel hanging over the 2 3. 9
Fasten the second sheet the same
way as the first. Insert filler strips at
each end under the polycarbonate,
then drill through those into the
PVC ribs. Now add additional
screws about every 16". You can just
predrill the holes with the 18" bit
(the polycarbonate panels are soft
enough that the screws will drive
through them without cracking).

Set the clear acrylic end panels in
place, butting them against the filler
10 at the top. Mark screw locations.
Place the panel on a piece of
plywood and predrill with a "
diameter bit to avoid cracking the
clear acrylic, which isnt as soft or
flexible as the polycarbonate. Screw
the panels in place with roofing
screws, hand-tightening with a
screwdriver to avoid cracking the
clear acrylic. Dont overtighten.
Mount the canopy to the cold frame

base with two exterior hinges. The
11 canopy frame should fit flush over
the base on all sides. Screw in two
hook-and-eye latches in front.
Attach a prop stick to each side

with a stainless-steel bolt and nut.
12 Insert three washers (or more)
between the prop stick and the
26 base so the prop stick clears
the clear acrylic side panel. Drill a
few additional 516" holes in the stick
and the frame for the eyebolts, so
you can prop the canopy open at
different heights. Now, prepare the
ground and place the cold frame
in the desired location. Anchor the
base to the ground using 16" treated
stakes or heavy-duty metal angles
driven into the ground and secured
to the frame.

Raised Planting Bed
f you live on a rural homestead with ample acreage, apart to avoid overcrowding but close enough to
I siting your gardens usually comes down to
choosing among many good options. But if you live in
shade and choke out weeds. In raised beds, you can
also water plants easily with soaker hoses, which
a home with a smaller lot, your foray into gardening deliver water to soil and roots rather than spraying
will take more planning. It will require you to make leaves and inviting disease.
extremely efficient use of your gardening space to Raised garden beds can easily be customized to fit
achieve the volume of produce you want. In many the space you have available. Just make sure you can
cases, this challenge is addressed by sowing your reach the center easily. If you can only access your raised
plants in raised garden beds. bed from one side, its best to build it no wider than
Raised garden beds offer several advantages 3feet. Beds that you can access from both sides can be
over planting at ground level. When segregated, soil as wide as 6 feet, as long as you can reach the center.
can be amended in a more targeted way to support You can build your raised bed as long as youdlike.
high density plantings. Also, in raised garden beds,
soil doesnt suffer compaction under foot traffic TIP: For low-growing plants, position the bed with
or machinery, so plant roots are free to spread and a north-south orientation, so both sides of the bed
breathe more easily. Vegetables and flowers planted will be exposed to direct sunlight. For taller plants,
at high densities in raised beds are placed far enough position the bed east-west.
Raised garden beds

are easy to weed,
simple to water,
and the soil quality
is easier to control,
ensuring that your
vegetable plants
yield bountiful fresh
produce. Your garden
beds can be built
at any height up to
waist-level. Its best
not to build them
much taller than
that, however, to
make sure you can
reach the center of
yourbed.

How to Build a Raised Planting Bed with Timbers
1
This basic but very sturdy raised bed is made with 44 Outline a 3 5' area with stakes and masons string. Remove
landscape timbers stacked with their ends staggered in classic all grass inside the area, then dig a 2"-deep6"-wide trench
log-cabin style. The corners are pinned together with 6" along the inside perimeter of the outline. Cut each of the
galvanized spikes (or, you can use timber screws). It is lined with four timbers into one 54" piece and one 30" piece, using a
landscape fabric and includes several weep holes in the bottom reciprocating saw or circular saw.
course for drainage. Consider adding a 2 8 ledge on the top
row (see facing page). Corner finials improve the appearance
and provide hose guides to protect the plants in the bed.
2 3
Set the first course of timbers in the trench. Check the timbers Line the bed with landscape fabric to contain the soil and help
for level along their lengths and at the corners, adding or keep weeds out of the bed. Tack the fabric to the lower part of
removing soil to adjust, as needed. Position the second the top course with roofing nails. Some gardeners recommend
course on top of the first, staggering the corner joints with drilling 1"-diameter weep holes in the bottom timber course at
those in the first course. Fasten the courses together at each 2' intervals. Fill with a blend of soil, peat moss and fertilizer (if
corner with pairs of 6" nails driven through 316" pilot holes. desired) to within 2 or 3" of the top.

Variation: How to Build a Raised Planting Bed with a Kit
1 2
Raised garden bed kits come in many styles. Some have modular On a flat surface, assemble the panels and corner brackets (or
plastic or composite panels that fit together with grooves or hinge brackets) using the included hardware. Follow the kit
with hardware. Others feature wood panels and metal corner instructions, making sure all corners are square.
hardware. Most kits can be stacked to increase bed height.
3 4
Set the box down, experimenting with exact positioning until Set the bed box onto the installation site and check it for
you find just the spot and angle you like. Be sure to observe level. Add or remove soil as needed until it is level. Stake
the sun over an entire day when choosing the sunniest spot the box to the ground with the provided hardware. Add
you can for growing vegetables. Cut around the edges of the additional box kits on top of or next to the first box. Follow the
planting bed box with a square-nose spade, move the box manufacturers suggestion for connecting the modular units.
and then slice off the sod in the bed area. Line the bed or beds with landscape fabric and fill with soil to
within 2" or so of the top box.

PLANT COMPATIBILITY
VEGETABLE LOVES DOES NOT GET ALONG WITH PLANTING SEASON
Asparagus Tomatoes, parsley, basil Early spring
Beans (bush) Beets, carrots, cucumbers, potatoes Fennel, garlic, onions Spring
Cabbage & broccoli Beets, celery, corn, dill, onions, oregano, sage Fennel, pole beans, strawberries, tomatoes Spring
Cantaloupe Corn Potatoes Early summer
Carrots Chives, leaf lettuce, onion, parsley, peas, Dill Early spring
rosemary, sage, tomatoes
Celery Beans, cabbage, cauliflower, leeks, tomatoes Early summer
Corn Beans, cucumbers, peas, potatoes, Spring

pumpkins, squash
Cucumbers Beans, cabbages, corn, peas, radishes Aromatic herbs, potatoes Early summer
Eggplant Beans Potatoes Spring
Lettuce Carrots, cucumbers, onions, Early spring

radishes, strawberries
Onions & garlic Beets, broccoli, cabbages, eggplant, lettuce, Peas, beans Early spring
strawberries, tomatoes
Peas Beans, carrots, corn, cucumbers, Chives, garlic, onions Early spring
radishes, turnips
Potatoes Beans, cabbage, corn, eggplant, peas Cucumber, tomatoes, raspberries Early spring
Pumpkins Corn Potatoes Early summer
Radishes Beans, beets, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, peas, Early spring

spinach, tomatoes
Squash Radishes Potatoes Early summer
Dependent on
Tomatoes Asparagus, basil, carrots, chive, garlic, Cabbages, fennel, potatoes
thevariety
onions, parsley
Turnips Beans, peas Early spring

Raised Planting Bed & Cover
aised planting beds solve a number of gardening structure used by farmers to shelter rows of crops on
R challenges. A raised bed is much like a container
garden in that it offers total control over the soil
a temporary basis. Ours is made with PVC pipe and
is easy to disassemble for storage at the end of the
content and quality, without the worry of compaction season. The lightweight frame is perfect for a canopy
from walking through the garden. Containment of plastic sheeting (for warmth in colder weather),
of the soil also prevents erosion, helps with weed spun fleece (for insect protection), or deer netting (to
encroachment, and improves water drainage. For deter deer or any other hungry critters).
many urban gardeners, a raised bed is the bestand The raised bed frame is made with a single course
often onlyway to grow vegetables and other crop of 2 10 lumber. You can use smaller lumber for a
plants in tight spaces. shallower bed, or go higher with more courses and taller
Another advantage of a raised bed is that the corner posts. Unless your bed will be used strictly for
frame around the bed provides a structure for adding ornamental plants (not food), dont use pressure-treated
covers to protect plants from cold, wind, and snow, lumber, due to the risk of chemical contamination.
or to erect netting to keep out pests. The simple Instead, choose a naturally decay-resistant species such
cover frame shown here is much like a hoophouse as all-heart redwood, cedar, cypress, or Douglas fir.
Filled with
carefully prepared
soil, a raised bed
offers high yields
in a relatively
small space.
This simple,
inexpensive bed
design includes
wood cleats
installed along
its top edgesa
handy feature
for clamping
down covers of
alltypes.

RAISED PLANTING BED & COVER
Covered
" PVC pipe
Uncovered " trim
2 10
24
44
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Tape measure Level (1) 8' 4 4
Hammer Permanent marker (1) 8' 2 4
Circular saw Hacksaw or pipe cutter (1) 8' 1 4
Square or straightedge Eye and ear protection (7) "-dia. 10' PVC pipe
Drill and countersink bit and Work gloves (6) 1" #8 stainless-steel
3
16" twist bit (2) 10' 2 10 machine bolts andwingnuts
Reciprocating saw or handsaw (1) 8' 2 10 Cover material (8 14')
Hand sledge Deck screws (3", 1") (12) spring clamps
How to Build a Raised Bed & Cover
1 2
Cut the two frame ends to length (45") from an 8' 210, using Assemble the frame by setting the sides over the ends of the
a circular saw and a square or straightedge to ensure straight end pieces so they are flush at the top and outside edges.
cuts. For the frame side pieces, trim the ends of the 10' Drill three evenly spaced pilot holes through the sides and into
210s, if necessary, so they are square and measure120". the end pieces and fasten the parts with 3" deck screws.
3 4
Create the corner posts by cutting the 8' 4 4 into four pieces Set the bed frame into place, then measure diagonally
roughly 24" each. Trim the ends of each post to a point, using between opposing corners to check for square: the frame is
a reciprocating saw or handsaw. square when the measurements are equal.
TIP: For general soil preparation, turn over the soil beneath
the bed and add compost or manure, as desired, before
setting down the frame.

Drive a post at each corner inside
the frame, using a hand sledge
5 and a wood block to prevent
mushrooming the post top. Drive
the posts until the tops are about
2" below the top of the bed frame.
Check the frame for level, then drill
pilot holes and fasten each side
and end piece to a post with 3"
deckscrews.
Add a 2 4 stake at the midpoint of

each frame side, to help keep the
6 lumber from bowing out over time.
Cut the stake to a point and drive
it down below the top edge of the
frame. Tack the stake to the frame
with a couple of screws.
Install the cleats: Rip a 1 4 into

four "-wide strips, using a circular
7 saw or table saw (its okay if the last
strip isnt exactly "). Fasten the
strips along the perimeter of the
bed frame, flush with the top edges,
using 1" deck screws driven
through pilot holes. Cut the strips
to length as needed to complete
each run. Fill the bed with soil and
compost, as desired.
(continued)

8 9
Mark and drill the ridge pole for the cover frame, using Prepare the cover frame ribs by cutting six "-diameter PVC
one of the 10' PVC pipes. Make a mark 1" from each end, pipes to length at 96", using a hacksaw or tubing cutter. Then,
then mark every 24" in between. The marks should form a make a mark at the midpoint (48") of each rib, and drill a 316"
straight line down the length of the pipe. At each mark, drill a hole straight through the pipe at each mark.
3
16"-diameter hole straight down through the pipe.
ANCHOR THE FRAME

10
For a more secure frame that is less likely to blow away,
anchor the " tubing onto pieces of " CPVC tubing
that are set into holes drilled into the raised bed walls.
A " bit should makes holes that are sized just right for
the CPVC tubes, but drill a hole in a scrap piece first
and test the fit. For extra holding power and to prevent
the holes from filling with water, squeeze caulk into the
hole before inserting the CPVC pipe.
Assemble the cover frame, using 1" machine bolts and

wing nuts. Fit a rib over the top of the ridge pole at each hole
location. Insert the bolt through the rib and ridge and secure
with a wing nut. The wing nuts allow for quick disassembly of
the frame.

11
Install the cover frame into the bed by fitting one end of each rib against a frame side, inside the box area, and then bending
the rib and fitting the other end inside the frame. It helps to have two people for this job, starting at one end of the frame and
workingdown.
Add the cover material of your choice.

Drape the cover over the cover frame,
12 center it side-to-side and end-to-end,
and secure it on all sides with clamps
fitted over the cleats. To prevent
overheating with plastic covers, you can
roll up the cover at the ends and clamp
it to the outside ribs.

and has shelves made from -inch plywood. Plants
that need the warmest temperatures should go on the
upper shelf.
Each shelf of the rack measures 24 48 inches
plenty of room for four full-size seedling flats. Two
fluorescent shop lights illuminate each shelf and are
fully height-adjustable so you can raise or lower them
Seed Starter Rack as needed to provide plants with the right amounts
of light and heat at different stages of development
(see page 30 for tips on choosing light bulbs for your
fixtures). Because seeds and seedlings can require as
seed starter rack provides a spot for you to much as 20 hours of light per day, its most convenient
A germinate seeds and grow seedlings indoors, any
time of the year (in particular, immediately before the
to control the lights with an automatic timer. This
should be plugged into a GFCI-protected receptacle,
start of the outdoor growing season). Starting your due to all of the water used in the area. Even so, its
own seeds can save money over buying established best to remove flats before misting or watering, to
plants each growing season. And in many cases, it keep water away from the lights.
also lets you grow less-common varieties that might As with many projects in this book, you can easily
not be locally available in plant form. This accessory modify the dimensions of the rack as shown to suit
is particularly useful if you have a modest greenhouse your specific needs. For a smaller unit, switch to 2-foot
without supplied heating, or live in a particularly cold or 3-foot lights and resize the shelves accordingly, or
area with long winters. make the shelves half as deep and use a single fixture
This simple starter rack is perfect for a basement for each. For a larger rack, you can make the shelves
or utility room. The basic structure is built with 24s square and hang four 4-foot lights over each shelf.
This easy-to-build starter rack (left)

holds up to 12 full-size seedling flats
or trays and can be located practically
anywhere with an accessible electrical
outlet. The top shelf offers a handy
space for storing extra flats and
other supplies. Wire utility shelving
(above) offers an easy-to-assemble
alternative to building your own rack.
Most inexpensive units are only 14"
deep and can accommodate one row
of seedling flats per shelf. Use one or
two light fixtures above each shelf, as
appropriate for your needs.

SEED STARTER RACK
TOOLS & MATERIALS CUTTING LIST

Circular saw KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
Drill/driver A Shelf frame side 8 1 3 50" 24
Framing square B Shelf frame end 8 1 3 21" 24
(2) 10' 2 4 C Leg 4 1 3 79" 24
(8) 8' 2 4 D Shelf 4 24 48" Plywood
(1) " 4 8' plywood
Deck screws (3", 2", 158")
(3) 48" fluorescent light fixtures
withtwo40Wlamp capacity
and plug-in cord
Chain (10 linear ft.)
(6) S-hooks
Grounded power strip
Grounded automatic timer
Work gloves
A
C B
48" fluorescent light fixture-

1 per shelf
Timer in wall receptacle

How to Build a Seed Starter Rack
1 2
Cut all of the wood parts for the shelf

frames, using a circular saw or power
miter saw. Cut one shelf frame side and
two shelf frame ends from each of four 8' Assemble the shelf frames with 3" deck screws. Position the side pieces of each
2 4s, and cut the remaining four shelf frame over the ends of the end pieces and so their top edges are flush. Drill pilot
frame sides from two 10' 2 4s. Cut holes and drive two screws through the sides and into the ends. Complete all four
each of the four legs from an 8' 24. shelf frames using the same technique.
3 4
Mark the shelf locations onto the legs.

Measuring from the bottom of one leg,
make marks at 7", 31", and 55".
These marks represent the top edges
Add the shelves. Cut four shelves at 24 48", using a circular saw and straightedge of the shelves; the top shelf is installed
cutting guide. Check each shelf frame with a framing square, then lay the shelf over flush with the top ends of the legs. Use
the top so its centered side-to-side and end-to-end. Fasten the shelf to the frame the framing square to transfer the layout
with 158" deck screws. marks to the remaining three legs.

5
6
Fasten the shelves to each leg with two 2" deck screws Hang the light fixtures, using chain and S-hooks. Cut the
driven through the shelf ends and into the legs. The top edges chain into 18" lengths, using wire cutters, and attach each to
of each shelf should be on its layout marks (or flush with the one end of each fixture, using S-hooks or wire, as applicable.
ends of the legs), and the front and rear sides should be flush Attach the other end of the chains to the plywood shelf above,
with the outside edges of the legs. Use a square to make sure using S-hooks.
the shelf and legs are perpendicular before fastening.
8
Route the fixture cords to the nearest leg of the rack and Plug the light fixtures into an approved (grounded) power
secure them with zip ties or insulated cable staples. Be sure strip, and plug the power strip into a 24-hour timer installed
to leave enough slack in the cord to allow for moving the in a GFCI-protected wall receptacle. If the circuit or receptacle
fixture up and down. If necessary, use an approved extension is not GFCI-protected, replace the existing receptacle with a
cord to extend a fixture cord to the power strip location. GFCI receptacle, following the manufacturers directions.

Greenhouse Workbench
ood, sturdy worktables are indispensable tools for lumber, the bench frame is simple, inexpensive, and
G most greenhouse gardeners. Thats why almost
any sizable greenhouse is furnished with some kind
durable. And because its put together with screws,
you can easily disassemble the main parts for compact
of workbench running down both long sides of the off-season storage (a great feature for temporary
building. Benches hold plants at a comfortable level, hoophouse gardeners). Several good options for top
saving your back and your knees during those many and shelf surfaces are shown on page205.
hours of tending and watering. They also make for Regarding adaptability, you might want to
healthier plants, keeping them above the cooler change the dimensions of the bench as shown to
air near the floor and, with permeable bench tops, suit your needs and/or fit the available space in your
allowing airflow and even some light to reach them greenhouse. Simply add or subtract whatever you
frombelow. need to modify the bench width, length, or height.
In this project, youll learn how to build a basic, You can also add a second shelf to double the storage
easily adaptable worktable, to which you can add the space for seedling flats and other short items, or to
top and shelf surfaces of your choice. Made with 24 keep garden tools conveniently close to the bench top.
A greenhouse
bench should
be practical,
lightweight, and
space-efficient.
This simple
bench is highly
adaptable and
easy to move
around. The
ample lower
shelf provides
maximum
storage area
without taking
up unnecessary
floorspace.

GREENHOUSE WORKBENCH
Galvanized wire fencing

(orother surface)
A
C C
B
D
F
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Tape measure
Hammer
Circular saw or power miter saw
Clamps CUTTING LIST
Drill/driver KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
Framing square A Top frame side 2 1 3 96" 24

Aviation snips B Top frame end 2 1 3 22" 24
Metal file C Top supports 3 1 3 22" 24
(8) 8' cedar or PT 2 4 D Leg 4 1 3 32" 24
Deck screws (2", 3") E Shelf frame side 2 1 3 90" 24
24"-wide steel mesh F Shelf frame end 2 1 3 19" 24

(or other tabletop material)
1" galvanized horseshoe nails
Work gloves
How to Build a Greenhouse Workbench
Assemble the top frame by clamping the Attach the legs to the inside corners of
side pieces over the ends of the end the top frame, using 2" deck screws.
pieces so theyre flush along the top The top ends of the legs should be
edges. Drill pilot holes and fasten each flush with the top edges of the frame.
corner with two 3" deck screws. Use a framing square to make sure
each leg is perpendicular to the frame
beforefastening.
1
3
2
Install the top supports between the
side pieces, spacing them 24" apart on
center. First, mark layout lines onto both
side pieces, then square the frame by
measuring diagonally between opposing
corners; the frame is square when the
measurements are equal. Fasten the
supports with pairs of 3" deck screws.
4 5
Assemble the shelf frame in the same manner as the top Add the top and shelf surface material. Galvanized wire mesh
frame. Mark the inside face of each leg 10" up from the fencing is shown here (see next page for other options). Cut
bottom end. Position the shelf frame with its top edges on the the 24"-tall fencing to length at 95", using aviation snips.
marks, and fasten it to the legs with 2" deck screws driven Round over any sharp cut ends of wire with a metal file.
through the frame ends. The side frame pieces should be Center the mesh over the top frame, leaving a " margin at
flush with the outside edges of the legs. all sides. Fasten the mesh with 1" horseshoe nails. Trim and
install the shelf mesh in the same fashion.

Options for Bench Top & Shelf Surfaces
Expanded steel mesh is stiffer and has smaller holes than Exterior plywood offers a smooth, continuous surface for a bench
metal wire fencing, offering a more solid surface while top or shelf. One full 4 8' sheet of "-thick plywood will cover a
maintaining permeability. Fasten steel mesh to the frame full-size bench top and shelf. Fasten plywood to the frame parts
parts with heavy-duty staples or horseshoe nails. Do not use with 1" deck screws. Keep in mind that a plywood surface
stucco lath, which has a rough surface and sharp steel edges. wont drain like a permeable material; you may want to pitch the
bench slightly to one side for drainage. Coat it with deck stain or
paint to make it easier to clean and more stain resistant.
1 4 or 1 6 cedar boards or decking boards make an Protect stored items from draining water with a simple roof
attractive top surface and offer some runoff, depending on made with a single panel of corrugated plastic or fiberglass
how widely the boards are gapped. For the bench top, run roofing. Use 2 4s between the leg pairs to support the
boards parallel to the length of the top frame; for the shelf, panel, sloping the panel down toward one end at " per foot.
run them perpendicular to the length of the shelf frame. Secure the panel at the top end with a couple of screws.

Built-In Potting Bench
ny greenhouse of reasonable size and structural a wonderful compartment beneath removable slats
A integrity is a candidate for a useful and beautiful
built-in workbench. A bench like the one in this project
where you can blend your own batches of potting mix.
This built-in bench is made of standard
is a streamlined greenhouse addition that makes construction grade 2 4s and pressure-treated 16
best use of the least amount of materials and fits in deck boards. Because it is covered by a roof, leaving
seamlessly with the greenhouse interior. It can also be the bench unpainted will not materially affect its
easily adapted to different gardenersmade lower or longevity. But greenhouses and gardening sheds
higher, longer, or deeper as need dictates. That makes usually arent simple utility areas. Investing a little
it much more valuable than any prefab potting bench time and money in painting the bench is well worth
you can buy. The design includes a handy lower shelf it (technically, the potting bench seen here is coated
to keep potting materials off the greenhouse floor and with semi-transparent deck stain).
This potting bench uses the structural members of a greenhouse kneewall for support. The five slats at the right end can be
removed to access a shelf for buckets and planters.

BUILT-IN POTTING BENCH
C
E
D
A C
D
C
J
C D J
E
J H
B A
H
F
I
H
F

Tape measure KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
Deck screws (212", 3") A Front/back frame 2 1 3 81" 24
Lag screws (38 3") B Frame ends 2 1 3 22" 24
Carriage bolts (12 312") C Cleats-back 4 1 1 16" 22
Level D Cleats-front 3 1 1 22" 22
Exterior-rated wood glue E Cleats-side 2 1 1 19" 22
Drill/driver F Leg half 2 1 3 31" 24
Circular saw or power miter saw G Leg half 2 1 3 33" 24
Clamps H Shelf support 3 1 3 20" 24
(6) 2 4" 8' I Back wall ledger 1 1 3 32" 24
(3) 2 2" 8' J Shelf board 3 4/4 5 60" Deckboard
Eye and ear protection K Top slat 14 4/4 5 18" Deckboard

How to Build a Built-In Potting Bench
Attach the benchtop frame to the greenhouse wall studs using

1 3
8 3" lag screws. Before driving the lag screws, tack the
back of the frame to the long wall with deck screws. The tops
should be 36" above the floor. Then, clamp a 2 4 brace to
Pre-assemble the frame that is the benchtop support. Cut the the front rail of the frame and adjust it until level. Drill guide
2 4 front, back, and ends to length and then join them with holes and drive one lag screw per wall stud at the back rail
3" deck screws and exterior-rated wood glue. and on the ends.
3 4
Install the front legs. Each leg is created with a pair of 24s face- Attach each leg to the frame with a pair of 3" carriage
nailed or screwed together. The front 2 4 in each pair should fit bolts. Drill guide holes for the bolt and counterbores for the
between the frame and the floor. The back 24 in each pair is nuts and washers in the back face of the frame. Do not use
2" longer to provide a surface for attaching the frame and legs. washers behind carriage bolt heads.
Join the leg halves with glue and 2" deck screws.

5 6
Attach a 2 4 ledger to the front wall studs to support Attach 2 4 shelf supports to the legs and attach a 24 shelf
the 24 shelf supports that run from the front of the support to the endwall. Then, fasten the shelving material
bench to the wall. Use 3" deck screws driven at kneewall to the tops of the supports. The best height for the shelf
studlocations. depends on the height of the containers you plan to set on the
shelves beneath the removable section of the top.
8
Glue and screw 2 2 cleats around the inside perimeter Cut the benchtop slats from treated or cedar decking (or
of the benchtop frame. The cleats should be positioned so composite if you prefer). Attach the slats over the first two bays
they are level and the top faces of the deckboard slats will by driving a pair of deck screws into each slat end and the
be about 18" above the frame tops when they rest on the cleat below. Do not fasten the deckboards over the right end
cleats. Install a full-length cleat along the back wall and fill in bay. Drill 1" finger holes near the end of each board and simply
between the legs at thefront. set them on the cleats so they can be removed to access the
shelf below. If you wish, coat the bench with deck finish.

Simple Potting Bench
multi-functional workstation, like the High-Low Theres also no need to worry about a moisture-
A Potting Bench on pages 214 to 217, offers great
versatility that makes it useful in just about any
laden greenhouse environment. The understructure
is made with moisture-resistant, pressure-treated
greenhouse. But sometimes, all you really want from lumber, and the top is made up of composite decking
your work area is a big, broad surface with plenty of boards that wont split, rot, or splinter and require no
room to spread out and get busy. This workhorse of a protectivefinish.
bench is modeled after the most-used workspace in Of course, if youve always wished your kitchen
any home: the kitchen countertop. At 36 inches tall, counters were a bit higher or lower, you can simply
the bench is the same height as most kitchen counters, add or subtract a few inches from the given dimension
and at 28 inches wide, its slightly deeper than standard for the bench legs. You can also change the length
countertopsbut not so deep that you cant easily reach of the bench to fit a small greenhouse, if necessary.
across to the other side. The symmetrical configuration Shortening the whole thing by 2 feet allows you to
allows you to push any part of the bench against a build it with standard 8-foot lumber and decking
greenhouse wall and still get plenty of light penetration. instead of 12-foot and 10-foot pieces.
This potting bench

has a 2871"
top and is built
with four 24s
and three
standard-size
decking boards.
The handy pot
shelf below the
bench top is
made with a
cutoff from one of
the deck boards.

SIMPLE POTTING BENCH
C
C
A " overhang
allsides
D H

Tape measure KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
Circular saw A Top frame side 2 1 3 69" 24
Drill B Top frame end 2 1 3 23" 24
Piloting-countersink bit C Top supports 4 1 3 23" 24
Framing square D Leg 4 1 3 35" 24
Clamps E Leg support 2 1 3 16" 24
(3) 12' pressure-treated 2 4s (field measure)
Deck screws (2", 3") F Stretcher 1 1 3 63" 24

(field measure)
(1) 10' pressure-treated 2 4
G Top decking 5 1 5 71" 1 6 decking
(3) 12' 1 6 composite decking boards
H Pot shelf 1 1 5 68" 1 6 decking
Sandpaper
Work gloves
How to Build a Simple Potting Bench
2
Cut the two top frame sides from one 12' 2 4, using a Mark the layout for the top supports. Measuring from one end
circular saw or power miter saw. Cut the two top frame ends of the top frame, mark both frame sides every 1358". Check
and the four top supports from another 12' 2 4. Fit the the top frame for square, using a framing square. Install the
side pieces over the ends of the end pieces so all top edges top supports between the frame sides with 3" deck screws
are flush. Drill countersunk pilot holes and fasten the pieces driven through the frame sides and into the supports. Make
together with two 3" deck screws at each joint. sure the supports and frame sides are flush across the top.
3 4
Cut the four legs from one 12' 2 4. Round-over the edges on Mark the inside edge of each leg, 10" up from its bottom end.
the bottom end of each leg, using sandpaper, a file, or a router Measure the distance between each leg pair and cut a leg
and roundover bit; this prevents splintering if the table is slid support to fit snugly between the legs, using the 10' 2 4.
around. Install the legs at the inside corners of the top frame, Install the leg supports with their bottom edges on the marks;
driving 2" deck screws through the legs and into the top frame drive 3" screws toenail style through the top and bottom
ends. Also screw through the top frame sides and into the legs. edges of the supports and into the legs.
Make sure the legs are square to the frame before fastening.

5 6
Cut the 2 4 stretcher to fit snugly between the leg supports, Cut the top decking boards to length. Clamp the first board in
using the remainder of the 10' 2 4. Install the stretcher place so it overhangs the front and ends of the top frame by
so its centered side-to-side on each support, with the top ". If the deck boards are crowned (slightly curved across
edges flush. Drive 3" screws through the outsides of the leg the face), make sure the convex side faces up. Drill two pilot
supports and into the stretcher ends. holes at the center of each top frame end and top support
location, countersinking the holes slightly. Fasten the board
with 2" deck screws.
7 8
Install the remaining deck boards so all of their ends are Complete the pot shelf by cutting the remaining half-piece of
perfectly aligned and each board is gapped 18" from the deck board to length. Position the board so it is centered side-
next (without gaps, the joints would trap dirt). Use pieces of to-side over the stretcher and overhangs both leg supports by
1
8"-thick hardboard or two 18"-diameter drill bits to set the gaps. ". Fasten the board to the stretcher and leg supports with
The last board should overhang the rear frame side by ". 2" deck screws driven through pilot holes.

High-Low Potting Bench
workbench like this can be
A absolutely ideal against the
back (north) wall of a greenhouse.
TOOLS & MATERIALS
Tape measure Bandsaw or jigsaw (4) 2 4" 8' pine
It actually combines two work
benches in one: a regular waist- Cup hooks Work gloves (1) 1 5" 6' pine
level bench to fill seed trays or pots Clamps Eye and ear protection (4) 54"8' deckboards
and a longer, lower bench that can Sandpaper (1) 1 2" 8' pine Exterior-rated screws (1", 2", 2")
hold supplies or plants while still Drill (2) 1 4" 8' pine Solid-color exterior paint or stain
allowing a maximum of sunlight to
reflect back and penetrate deeply
into the greenhouse. As a plus,
its constructed of materials that
are ideal for the moisture-heavy
environment and temperature
fluctuations common to
anygreenhouse.
What makes this potting bench
different from most other potting
benches is that the work surfaces
are at appropriate heights for
gardening tasks. The work surface
is 30 inches high, making it easier
to reach down into pots. The low
work surface is just over a foot
high, so you wont have to lift
heavy objects such as large pots
or bags of soil. In addition to the
high-low work surfaces, this bench
also features a shelf and hook rail
to keep small supplies and tools
within reach, yet still off the main
work area.
A potting bench gets wet and
it gets dirty, so rot- and moisture-
resistant materials were chosen
to build this bench. The frame is
made with pressure-treated pine
lumber, and the work surfaces
are composite deck boards. The
composite material provides Not all pots are the same height. With two different working heights, this bench
a smooth surface that will not is comfortable to use whether youre planting seeds in starter trays or planting a
splinter and is easy toclean. 5-gallon planter with tomatoes.

HIGH-LOW POTTING BENCH
N
N
A
M
N
N L
L
M M
A
A
A
K
O
O
J
F G
B F
E J
B
P P
I F
H
I I B
F
CUTTING LIST
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL KEY PART N0. DIMENSION MATERIAL
A Long leg 2 1 3 62" Treated pine I Bottom rails 2 1 3 60" Treated pine
B Mid-length leg 2 1 3 29" Treated pine J Back rails 2 3 60" Treated pine
C Short leg 1 1 3 12" Treated pine K Front rail 1 1 30" Treated pine
D Back strut* 1 1 3 54" Treated pine L Hook rail 1 3 30" Treated pine
E Front strut 1 1 3 20" Treated pine M Shelf supports 2 3 7" Treated pine
F Outside 4 3 22" Treated pine N Shelf/shelf back 2 1 5 31" Treated pine
cross supports O High worktop 4 1 5 33" Deck boards
G Middle top 1 1 3 19" Treated pine P Low worktop 4 1 5 62" Deck boards
cross support
*Not shown
H Middle bottom 1 1 3 16" Treated pine
cross support
How to Build a High-Low Potting Bench
Cut the Frame Parts Assemble the Frame
Cut all of the frame and shelf parts to length. Draw Attach two back rails and one bottom rail to the
a 3-inch radius on the front bottom corner of each long leg, back strut, and back right mid-length leg
shelf support. Cut along the radius lines with a jigsaw with 2-inch deck screws. Check that all of the parts
or bandsaw (photo 1). Sand the profiles smooth. Apply intersect at 90-degree angles. Attach the front rail
a solid-color exterior deck and siding stain to all sides and one bottom rail to the left front mid-length leg,
of the frame and shelf parts. Staining these parts isnt front strut, and short leg. Connect the back assembly
mandatory, but its an opportunity to customize your and front assembly by attaching them to the cross
workbench, and the stain will extend the life of theparts. supports (photo 2).
Cut the shelf

supports. Use a
bandsaw or a jigsaw 1
to make the 3"
radius roundovers
on the ends of the
shelf supports.
Sandsmooth.
Assemble the bench

frame. Clamp the
cross supports to 2
the front and back
assemblies. Attach
the cross supports
with 2" deck screws.

Attach the Worktop Planks
Cut the deck boards that will be used to create the
work surfaces to length. We used composite deck
boards because they require little maintenance and
are easy to clean. Place the front deck board for the
lower work surface against the backside of the front
left leg and front strut. Mark the point where the front
leg and strut intersect the deck board. Using these
marks, draw the 3" deep notch outlines and cut out
the notches with a jigsaw (photo3).
Place the top and bottom deck boards on the
cross supports, leaving a -inch space between the
boards. Drill two pilot holes that are centered over the
cross supports in each deck board. Attach the deck
boards with 2-inch deck screws (photo 4). If you are
using composite deck boards, use specially designed
deckingscrews.
Attach the Shelf & Rack

Attach the shelf back, shelf hook rail, and shelf 3
supports to the long leg and back strut with 2-inch
deck screws. Attach the shelf to the shelf supports Cut notches. Lay out notches in the front board for the low
with 2-inch deck screws. Fasten the hooks to the shelf work surface where the board must fit around the front leg
hook rail (photo 5). and front strut. Use a jigsaw to cut the notches.
4 5
Install the worktop slats. Use composite screws to attach Install the shelf and hook rail. Attach the shelf to the shelf
the composite deck boards that create the upper and supports. Drill pilot holes for each screw to prevent splitting
lowerworktops. the shelf supports. Once the hook rail is installed twist in the
cup hooks.

control moisture and fertilizer, giving you better, more
Lettuce Table predictable yields. And finally, it provides accessible
gardening for those inwheelchairs.
The frame of this lettuce table, which will be
he lettuce table solves a number of gardening in contact with the soil, can be made from cedar,
T problems that home gardeners confront when
growing tasty vegetables and herbs. First, and most
redwood, or any other naturally rot-resistant wood.
It is left unfinished on the inside. Pressure-treated
important, it moves the crop up and out of the way wood is used for the rest of the framework because
of rabbits, slugs, and other destructive pests. Second, its less expensive and will resist decay for decades.
its portable, so it can be moved to follow or avoid The galvanized hardware cloth across the bottom is
the sun, or brought into the garage on frosty nights. an inexpensive way to support the weight of the soil;
Third, it can be set up on convenient but barren spots you can substitute cedar boards, galvanized metal
like decks, patios, and driveways. Fourth, it allows flashing, or any other rot-resistant, nontoxic material
you to garden at a comfortable height, saving wear that can hold the weight. No matter what you use to
and tear on knees and backs. Fifth, you can easily hold the weight, the soil is held in place with heavy-
replace the growing media every year and precisely duty landscape fabric or aluminum screen mesh.
The lettuce table can

be used to grow more
than lettuce. It simply
draws its name from
its original purpose,
which is to provide
a shallow bed for
growing lettuces in an
easy-to-reach spot that
can be moved easily
around your yard. This
interpretation is on
the large side to allow
you to grow several
varieties, but you
can easily modify the
simple plan to build a
more compact version.

TOOLS & MATERIALS
2 4" 8' cedar (1) Landscape fabric Drill
2 4" 12' cedar (1) Construction adhesive Miter saw
2 4" 8' pressure-treated (1) 2" deck screws (1 lb.) Tin snips
2 4" 12' pressure-treated (3) Countersink bit Hammer
1 2" 8' pressure-treated (3) Framing square Caulk gun
" galvanized hardware cloth Leather gloves Clamps
Stapler with 516" stainless steel staples
CUTTING LIST
PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
Tray side 2 2 4 72" Cedar
Tray ends and divider 3 2 4 21" Cedar
Outer leg 4 2 4 36" Pressure-treated
Inner leg 4 2 4 20" Pressure-treated
Bottom leg 4 2 4 8" Pressure-treated
Stretcher 1 2 4 69" Pressure-treated
Top stretcher 1 2 4 72" Pressure-treated
Center support 1 2 4 19" Pressure-treated
Side rail 2 2 4 24" Pressure-treated
Side trim 2 1 2 71" Pressure-treated
End trim 2 1 2 17" Pressure-treated
How to Build a Lettuce Table

Cut the parts for the
table frame to length
1 and assemble the
cedar top tray with
the center divider.
Predrill all screw
holes to avoid splits,
and use two screws
at each corner. Use
2" (or 3") deck
screws. This design
is for a 2 6 ft. tray,
but you can make it
larger or smaller.
(continued)

2 4 slot
Inner leg
Outer leg
2 3
Wearing leather gloves, cut the hardware cloth to size. Cut out Cut the legs from the pressure-treated wood and assemble them
a 2 4" section at each corner for the legs. Center it on the into two leg pairs. Screw the inner and outer legs together,
underside of the cedar frameit should be about " in from leaving a 3" gap at the top. The top frame will sit on the
the edge on all sides. Nail it every 6" on the center divider, but ledges created at the top. Leave the bottom legs off for now.
first mark and cut out a 2 4" slot at the center of the divider. Make sure the legs are parallel to each other, then join them
Pull the cloth flat and nail it several times on each side and together with the side rails. Spread a bead of construction
the ends. No need to overdo itthe edges of the cloth will be adhesive before attaching the two pieces. Set the legs down
covered and secured with 1 2s later. parallel to each other and join them with the siderails.
4 5
With the tray turned upside down, fit the legs onto the ends. Attach the stretcher with 2" screws. Use clamps to hold the
Check that theyre square to the frame and sitting flat wood in place while you predrill and fasten. Also measure
underneath itif you see daylight between the inner leg and and cut the bottoms of the legs, and fasten with adhesive
the tray, trim the outer leg a little so the gap disappears. Screw andscrews.
each leg to both parts of the cedar frame.

7
6
Place the tray on the ground, right-side up. Screw the top Predrill the 1 2s every 8 to 10". Flip the tray over then screw
stretcher to the rails and lower stretcher. Measure the the 1 2s to the bottom of the tray, flush with the outside
distance from the stretchers to the center divider and cut edges and covering the hardware cloth.
and fasten the support. Add 116" to your measurement just to
make sure you have a snug fit.
Finally, staple on
landscape fabric or
8 aluminum screen
on the inside of the
tray to hold the soil
in. Fill the tray with
a soilless growing
media and fertilizer
not ordinary topsoil.
For best results,
replace the soilless
mix every year, as it
becomes compressed
overtime.

Trellis Planter
his simple, very stable planter-and-trellis combo
T exploits the durable nature of cedar to create a
greenhouse feature ideally suited to the rigors, sun
exposure, and moisture ever present in any greenhouse
structure. The design showcases the wood in an
incredibly useful greenhouse planter perfect for training
edibles to grow vertically.
Because the 2 2 lattice trellis is attached to the
planter, not permanently fastened to a wall or railing, it
can be moved easily to follow changing sunlight patterns
within the greenhouse or even shuttled outside in
warmer months to make room for other plants or just to
give the planters occupants some outside exposure. You
may even want to consider installing wheels or casters
on the base for greatermobility.
Building the trellis planter is a very simple job. The trellis
portion is made entirely of strips of 2 2 cedar, fashioned
together in a crosshatch pattern. The planter bin is a basic
wood box, with panel sides and a two-board bottom with
drainage holes that rests on a scalloped base. The trellis is
screwed permanently to the back of the planter bin.
All manner of plants can be grown vertically in a
greenhouse environment, including some surprising
candidates, such as tomatoes, zucchini, and even
miniature melon varieties. By training edibles that
normally sprawl to climb up the more orderly surface of
a trellis like this, youll free up room in your greenhouse,
make it easier to tend the growing plants, and increase
airflowpreventing disease in theprocess.
TOOLS & MATERIALS

(1) 2 6" 8' cedar 1"-dia. spade bit Circular saw
(1) 2 4" 6' cedar Counterbore bit Miter saw
(4) 2 2" 8' cedar Jigsaw Finishing materials
(3) 1 6" 8' cedar Compass Eye and ear protection
(1) 1 2" 6' cedar Square Work gloves
Tape measure Moisture-resistant glue
Drill Deck screws (158", 2")

TRELLIS PLANTER
Overall Size:
J 69" High
17" Deep
K F E 30" Long
J E
6" A
(typ.) A
K J
A
N
18" N
G
G
C
B
B
C
CUTTING LIST
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL
A Box slats 12 8 5 13"
7
Cedar H Center post 1 1 1 63" Cedar
B Base front and back 2 1 5 25" Cedar I Long rail 1 1 1 30" Cedar
C Base ends 2 1 5 12" Cedar J Medium rails 3 1 1 24" Cedar
D Cap front 1 1 3 25" Cedar K Short rails 2 1 1 18" Cedar
E Cap ends 2 1 3 14" Cedar L Long cleats 2 7
8 1 18" Cedar
F Cap back 1 1 1 18" Cedar M Short cleats 2 7
8 1 11" Cedar
G End posts 2 1 1 59" Cedar N Bottom boards 2 7
8 5 20" Cedar
How to Build a Trellis Planter
Step 1: Build the Planter Bin Step 3: Build the Planter Base
1. Cut the box slats (A) and cleats (L, M) to length. 1. The planter base is scalloped to create feet at
Arrange the slats edge-to-edge in two groups of four thecorners.
and two groups of two, with tops and bottomsflush.
2. Cut the base front and back (B) and the base ends
2. Center a long cleat (L) at the top of each set of four (C) to length. To draw the contours for the scallops
slats, so the distance from each end of the cleat to on the front and back boards, set the point of a
the end of the panel is the same. Attach the cleats compass at the bottom edge of the base front, 5"
to the four-slat panels by driving 158" deck screws in from one end. Set the compass to a 2" radius
(photo 1) through the cleats and into the slats. and draw a curve to mark the curved end of the
cutout. Draw a straight line to connect the tops of
3. Lay the short cleats (M) at the tops of the two-slat the curves, 2" up from the bottom of the board,
panels. Attach them to the slats the same way. to complete the scalloped cutout.
4. Arrange all four panels into a box shape and apply 3. Make the cutout with a jigsaw, then sand any
moisture-resistant wood glue to the joints. Attach the rough spots. Use the board as a template for
panels by driving 158" deck screws through the four- marking a matching cutout on the base back.
slat panels and into the ends of the two-slatpanels.
4. Draw a similar cutout on one base end, except
Step 2: Install the Bin Bottom with the point of the compass 3" in from the
ends. Cut out both end pieces with a jigsaw.
1. Cut the bottom boards (N) to length. Set the bin
upside down on your work surface, and mark 5. Draw reference lines for wood screws " from the
reference lines on the inside faces of the panels, 78" ends of the base front and back. Drill three evenly
in from the bottom of the bin. Insert the bottom spaced pilot holes through the lines. Counterbore
boards into the bin, aligned with the reference the holes. Fasten the base ends between the base
lines to create a 78" recess. Scraps of 1 cedar can front and back by driving three evenly spaced deck
be put beneath the bottom boards asspacers. screws at each joint.
2. Drill 18" pilot holes through the panels.

Counterbore the holes slightly with a counterbore
bit. Fasten the bottom boards by driving 158" deck
screws through the panels and into the edges and
ends of the bottom boards.
1 2
Attach the side cleats flush with the tops of the side boards. The recess beneath the bottom boards in the planter bin
provides access for driving screws.

3
Before attaching the cap ends, drill pilot holes through the
mitered ends of the cap-front ends.
Step 4: Attach the Bin to the Base

1. Set the base frame and planter bin on their backs.
Position the planter bin inside the base so it 4
extends 78" past the top of the base.
Temporary spacers hold the posts in position while the rails are
2. Drive 158" deck screws through the planter bin and attached.
into the base to secure the parts (photo 2).
2. Cut the end posts (G), center post (H) and rails
Step 5: Make the Cap Frame (I,J, K) to length. Lay the end posts and center post
together side by side with their bottom edges flush
1. Cut the cap front (D), cap ends (E), and cap back so you can gang-mark the railpositions.
(F) to length. Cut 45 miters at one end of each cap
end and at both ends of the capfront. 3. Use a square as a guide for drawing lines across all
three posts, 18" up from the bottom. Draw the next
2. Join the mitered corners by drilling pilot holes line 7" up from the first. Draw additional lines
through the joints (photo 3). Counterbore the across the posts, spaced 7" apart.
holes. Fasten the pieces with glue and 2" deck
screws. Clamp the cap front and cap ends to the 4. Cut two 7"-wide scrap blocks and use them to
front of your worktable to hold them while you separate the posts as you assemble the trellis.
drive the screws. Attach the rails to the posts in the sequence
shown in the Diagram, using 2" screws (photo 4).
3. Fasten the cap back between the cap ends with Alternate from the fronts to the backs of the posts
deck screws, making sure the back edges are flush. when installing the rails.
Set the cap frame on the planter bin so the back
edges are flush. Drill pilot holes and counterbore Step 7: Apply Finishing Touches
them. Drive 2" deck screws through the cap
frame and into the side and endcleats. 1. Fasten the trellis to the back of the planter bin so
the bottoms of the posts rest on the top edge ofthe
Step 6: Make the Trellis base. Drill pilot holes in the posts. Counterbore
the holes. Drive 2" deck screws through the
1. The trellis is made from pieces in a crosshatch posts and into the cap frame. With a 1"-diameter
pattern. The exact number and placement of the spade bit, drill a pair of drainage holes in each
pieces is up to youuse the same spacing we used bottom board. Stain the project with an exterior
(see Drawing) or create your own. woodstain.

TOOLS & MATERIALS
(3) 1 2" 8' cedar (1) 34 4" 4' ext.plywood Miter saw
(3) 1 6" 8' cedar (2) 38 2-12" eyebolts Clamps
(1) 2 4" 10' cedar Straightedge cutting guide Compass
(2) 4 4" 8' cedar Brad nails orfinishnails Drill
Planter with (1) 2 2" 6' cedar

(2) 38" locknuts
Circular saw ortablesaw
Tape measure
Handsaw
Hanging Trellis Deck screws (2", 3") Jigsaw Work gloves
(4) 38" flat washers
ou dont need a large yard

Y or any yard at all for that
matterto have a garden.
Planting in containers makes
it possible to cultivate a garden
just about anywhere. A container
garden can be as simple as a
small flowering annual planted
in a single 4-inch pot or as
elaborate as a variety of shrubs,
flowering plants, and ornamental
grasses planted in a large
stationaryplanter.
This planter project combines
a couple of different container
options to create a larger garden
in a relatively small space. The
base is an 18 30-inch planter
box that is large enough to hold
several small plants, a couple
of medium-sized plants, or one
large plant. It features a trellis
back that can be covered by
climbingplants.
In addition to the planter and
trellis, this project features two
plant hangers that extend out
from the back posts. Adding a
couple of hanging plant baskets
further extends the garden display
without increasing the space taken
up by the planter.
This project is easiest to
build with a table saw, miter saw,
jigsaw, and drill/driver. If you This efficient planter combines a box for container gardening with a climbing trellis
dont have access to a table saw, and a pair of profiled arms for hanging potted plants.
use a circular saw or jigsaw and
straightedge to rip the 1 6 siding boards with 3-inch-wide 14s. This modification makes the planter
boards. An even easier option is to 4 inches taller, so you also have to make the front posts 24 inches
replace the 2-inch-wide siding long instead of 20 inches long and add 4 inches to the front poststrim.

TRELLIS PLANTER
J K
L
J
I
1 1 2" radius
A A
12"
10 1 2" 2" radius
I Hanger arm detail

9" L
I
6"
I
6"
F E
B
C
E
CUTTING LIST
KEY PART NO. DIMENSION MATERIAL KEY PART N0. DIMENSION MATERIAL
A Back posts 2 3 3 72" Cedar H Bottom panel* 1 22 30" Ext. plywood
B Front posts 2 1 3 20" Cedar I Climbing rails 5 1 30" Cedar
C Front siding 6 2 30" Cedar J Hanger backs 2 1 1 12" Cedar
D Front post trim 2 1 18" Cedar K Hanger arms 2 1 3 18" Cedar
E Side siding 12 2 21" Cedar L Hanger braces 4 1 3 18" Cedar
F Back panel 1 18 30" Ext. plywood *Not shown
G Bottom supports* 2 1 22" Cedar
How to Build a Planter with Hanging Trellis
Cut the Base Parts Also use a circular saw or table saw to cut the
Cutting the front posts (2 4) and back posts (44) to bottom and back panels to length and width. Cut
length is easy. Cutting the hanger parts is a bit trickier, 1-inch-long, 3-inch-wide notches out of the front
primarily because the plant hangers splay out from corners of the bottom panel. Cut the front post trim,
the corners of the posts at a 45-degree angle. The top, bottom supports, and back climbing rails to length
outside post corners must be beveled to create flat from 12boards.
mounting surfaces for the hangers. Mark the bevel cut
lines on the outside and front faces of the posts (photo Assemble the Base Planter
1). Tilt the shoe of a jigsaw to 45-degree and bevel-cut Attach the front siding strips to the front posts with
along the layout lines (photo 2). Use a handsaw to 2-inch deck screws. Align the ends of the siding pieces
make a stop cut that meets the bottom of the bevel flush with the sides of the front legs. Leave a -inch
cut in each back post, forming a shoulder (photo 3). space between the siding boards. Drive one screw
Rip-cut some 1 6 stock to 2 inches wide (photo 4) through each end of each siding board and into the
using a table saw or a circular saw and a straightedge front legs. Drill a countersunk pilot hole for each
cutting guide. Cut six 30-inch-long pieces and twelve screw. Attach the front post trim pieces to the front
21-inch-long pieces to make the sidingstrips. posts with three or four 2-inch brad nails or finish
1 2
Mark the post bevel cuts. The lines at the top of each back Cut the bevels. Tilt the foot of a jigsaw at a 45 angle so it will
post should be drawn 1" out from the corner and should run ride smoothly on the post face and follow the bevel cutting
down the post for 12". line. Make a bevel cut along the layout line.

nails. Align the front edge of the trim pieces flush of the back post. Drive one screw through the front
with the front face of the front siding. Attach the back end of the support and into the front leg and two
panel to the back posts with six 2-inch screws. Drive screws into the back legs. Attach the bottom to the
three screws into eachpost. bottom supports with four 2-inch screwstwo into
Attach the back lattice rails to the back posts. eachsupport.
Drive one screw through each end of each climbing
rail (photo 5). Refer to the construction drawing on Build the Plant Hangers
page 000 for lattice spacing. Place the front and back Cut the hanger backs, hanger arms, and hanger
assemblies on their sides and install siding on the braces to length. Draw the hanger arm profile onto
side thats facing up. The siding boards should be the side of each hanger arm, and use a compass to
positioned against the front post trim board and flush draw the radius profiles. Profile details are shown on
with the back edge of the back post, spaced inch the construction drawings (page 227). Use a jigsaw
apart. Attach the siding with 2-inch screws (photo 6). to cut along the profile layout lines on the hanger
Flip the project over and repeat the process to attach arms. Both ends of the hanger brace are mitered at
siding to the other side. 45degrees, but the back or bottom end is a compound
Attach the bottom supports to the front and miter cut, meaning that it has both a miter and a bevel
back legs. The bottom of the front end of the bottom component. Cut the top-end 45-degree miters on all
support should be flush with the bottom of the siding. four braces. Then, make compound cuts at the bottom
The bottom of the back end of the bottom support ends of the hanger braces (photo 7). Make the cuts so
should be positioned 2 inches up from the bottom the beveled end faces the post when it is attached.
Make the shoulder

cut. Use a handsaw
3 to cut into the
corner of the post
to meet the bevel
cut, creating a
shoulder for the
beveledcorner.
Rip 1 6 stock for

siding. Using a table
4 saw or a circular saw
and cutting guide,
rip enough material
for the sides and the
front to 2".
(continued)

Add the latticework.
Attach the horizontal
climbing rails to 5
the back posts with
2" screws. Use
one screw at each
lattice connection to
theposts.
Install siding. Attach

the siding to the
front and back posts 6
with 2" screws. After
completing one side,
flip the project and
complete the other
side. Then, install
siding strips on
thefront.
Cut the hanger brace

angles. After cutting
a flat 45 miter in 7
the top end of the
hanger brace, make
a compound bevel/
miter cut in the
bottom end so it will
fit flat against the
bevel cut in the post.

Drill a 38-inch-diameter hole through the top of
each hanger arm. Locate the hole 3 inches in from
the end of the hanger arm. Fasten one eyebolt, two
flat washers, and a locknut through each hanger arm.
Attach the hanger back to the back end of the hanger
arm with two 3-inch screws. Position a 2 2 hanger
back and a 24 hanger arm against the beveled
corner of each back post. Drive two 3-inch screws
through the hanger back and into the back posts.
Attach the hanger braces to the hanger back and
hanger arm with 2-inch screws (photo 8). Make sure
the hanger arms remain perpendicular to the posts
when you attach thebraces.
9
Line the container. Attach 4-mil black plastic liner with 38"
stainless steel staples. Overlap the plastic in the corners and
leave a small gap along the back bottom edge for drainage.
Fill Planter
The planter itself is lined with heavy (at least 4-mil
thick) black plastic sheeting. Cut the sheeting pieces
that cover the sides, front, and bottom several inches
oversized so they overlap in the corners. Cut the back
sheeting the same size as the back panel. Attach the
plastic to the inside faces of the planter with staples
(photo 9). Start with the bottom sheet, overlap the
sides on the bottom, and then overlap thefront over
the sides and bottom. Finally overlap the back over
the sides, leaving a small gap betweenthe bottom
ofthe back sheet and the bottom sheet to allow water
8 to drain out. Fill the planter with potting soil and add
your plants.
Install the hanger braces. Clamp the hanger braces to the
hanger arms and hanger backs. Attach the hanger braces TIP: Adding a few inches of gravel to the
with 2" screws driven into the hanger back and into the bottom of the planting compartment allows for
hanger arm. Drive two screws at each connection. betterdrainage.

Solar Produce Dryer
solar dryer is a drying tool that makes it possible that you find. The key to successful solar drying is to
A to air-dry produce even when conditions are less
than ideal. This dryer is easy to make, lightweight, and
check the dryer frequently to make sure that it stays
in the sun. If the air becomes cool and damp, the food
is space efficient. The dryer makes a great addition to will become a haven for bacteria. In a sunny area, your
your greenhouse. produce will dry in a couple days. Add a thermometer
The dryer, which is made of cedar, utilizes a to the inside of your dryer box, and check on the
salvaged window for completion. But you will have to temperature frequentlyit should stay between 95
adjust the dimensions given here for the size window and 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Based on the cold

frame platform
seen on pages
178 to 181, this
solar dryer lets
you dry fruit
and vegetables
quickly, naturally,
and in a more
sanitary fashion
than simply
air-drying.

SOLAR PRODUCE DRYER
B
C B
A
E
D E
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Stapler
Scissors
(2) 1 4" 8'
Tape measure
Drill
Deck screws (1", 2")
Brad nails CUTTING LIST
Hole saw bit
Staples A Front/back 2 8 7 34"
7
Cedar
B Side 2 8 5 2718"
7
Cedar
Circular saw
C Leg (tall) 2 8 3 30"
7
Cedar
Screen retainer strip
D Leg (short) 2 8 3 22"
7
Cedar
Insect mesh
E Brace 2 8 3 24"
7
Cedar
(1) 1 8" 8'
Insect meshfiberglass 28 8 34"
7
Window sash
(1) 1 6" 8'
Work gloves
How to Build a Solar Dryer
Install the mesh. Staple the screen
to the frame. Then tack the retainer
1 strips over the screen to the frame with
3to 4 brad nails per side. Trim off the
excessmesh.
3
Assemble the box. Attach the wider Build the stand. Attach each 24" board
boards for the frame by driving 2" screws to a 30" board (in the back) and a
through the faces of the 18" boards 22" board (in the front) with 1" deck
into the ends of the 1 6" boards. There screws. Then attach the finished posts
will be a difference in height between to the frame with three 1" deck
these pairs of boards so that the window screws in each post.
sash can sit flush in the recess created.
Drill three 1" holes for ventilation in

each 1 6" board equally spaced
along the length of the board, leaving
5" of room on each end for the posts.
Staple leftover insect mesh behind
5
the ventilation holes on the inside of
theframe. Finish the project by sliding the window sash into place.

Resources
BC Greenhouse Builders Growers Supply Studio Shed
www.bcgreenhouses.com www.growerssupply.com www.studio-shed.com
(888) 391-4433 (800) 476-9715 (888) 900-3933
Black & Decker Growing Spaces Growing Domes Sturdi-Built Greenhouse Manufacturing
www.blackanddecker.com geodesic-greenhouse-kits.com Company
(970) 731-2120 www.sturdi-built.com
Charleys Greenhouse & Garden
(800) 334-4115
www.charleysgreenhouse.com Juliana Greenhouses
(800) 322-4707 www.julianagreenhouses.com Sunglo Greenhouses
(877) 628-9571 www.sunglogreenhouses.com
ePlastics
(425) 251-8005
www.eplastics.com Outdoor Living Today
(800) 474-3688 www.outdoorlivingtoday.com
(888) 658-1658
Grandio Greenhouses
www.grandiogreenhouses.com Solexx Greenhouse & Greenhouse Covering
(866) 448-8231 www.solexx.com
(877) 476-5399
Photo Credits
BC Greenhouse Builders Growers Supply Shutterstock
11, 23 (bottom left), 60 (top left), 46, 63 (top left) 20 (top right, Ivan_Sabo), 21 (bottom left,
65 (bottom) Frank L Junior), 21 (bottom right, www.
Growing Spaces sandatlas.org), 33 (Imfoto), 44 (bottom,
Charleys Greenhouse & Garden 58 (top), 63 (bottom) Grandpa), 148149 (losmandarinas), 151
8, 54, 56 (bottom), 60 (top right, bottom), (left, Stephanie Bidouze), 152 (right, donikz),
62 (bottom), 64 (top) Juliana America 153 (top left, Michael Tatman), 168 (Sveten),
28 176177 (jean morrison)
Clive Nichols
6 North Florida Research and Education Center Solar Innovations
43 (Robert Hochmuth) 31 (left), 39 (top)
Elizabeth Whiting & Associates
18 (Michael Harris) Outdoor Living Today Studio Shed
57 (bottom left), 63 (top right) 55
Dreamstime
29 Photolibrary Sturdi-Built Greenhouse Manufacturing Co.
42 (Rick Lew) 15, 22 (bottom), 24 (left), 31 (right), 32, 41,
ePlastics 58 (bottom), 61
24 (right) Renaissance Conservatories
47 Sunglo Greenhouses
Getty Images 56 (top), 57 (bottom right), 59 (bottom)
30 (Magnus Persson), 40 (Peter Anderson) Solexx Greenhouses and Greenhouse
Coverings
Grandio Greenhouses 57 (top), 59 (top)
62 (top), 64 (bottom), 65 (top)
RESOURCES/PHOTO CREDITS 235

Metric Conversion Charts
METRIC CONVERSIONS
TO CONVERT: TO: MULTIPLY BY: TO CONVERT: TO: MULTIPLY BY:
Inches Millimeters 25.4 Millimeters Inches 0.039
Inches Centimeters 25.4 Centimeters Inches 0.394
Feet Meters 0.305 Meters Feet 3.28
Yards Meters 0.914 Meters Yards 1.09
Square inches Square centimeters 6.45 Square centimeters Square inches 0.155
Square feet Square meters 0.093 Square meters Square feet 10.8
Square yards Square meters 0.836 Square meters Square yards 1.2
Ounces Milliliters 30.0 Milliliters Ounces .033
Pints (U.S.) Liters 0.473 (lmp. 0.568) Liters Pints (U.S.) 2.114 (lmp. 1.76)
Quarts (U.S.) Liters 0.946 (lmp. 1.136) Liters Quarts (U.S.) 1.057 (lmp. 0.88)
Gallons (U.S.) Liters 3.785 (lmp. 4.546) Liters Gallons (U.S.) 0.264 (lmp. 0.22)
Ounces Grams 28.4 Grams Ounces 0.035
Pounds Kilograms 0.454 Kilograms Pounds 2.2
CONVERTING TEMPERATURES LUMBER DIMENSIONS

Convert degrees Fahrenheit (F) to degrees Celsius (C) by following this NOMINAL - U.S. ACTUAL - U.S. (IN INCHES) METRIC
simple formula: Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature reading. 12 3
4 112 19 38 mm
Then, multiply that number by 59. For example, 77F - 32 = 45. 45 3
59 = 25C. 13 4 212 19 64 mm
3
To convert degrees Celsius to degrees Fahrenheit, multiply the Celsius 14 4 312 19 89 mm
temperature reading by 95. Then, add 32. For example, 25C 95 = 45. 15 3
4 412 19 114 mm
45 + 32 = 77F. 3
16 4 512 19 140 mm
3
17 4 614 19 159 mm
Fahrenheit Celsius
3
18 4 714 19 184 mm
55 15 1 10 3
4 914 19 235 mm
50 10 3
45 1 12 4 1114 19 286 mm
40 5 114 4 1 312 25 89 mm
35
30 Freezing 0 114 6 1 512 25 140 mm
25 -5 114 8 1 714 25 184 mm
20
15 -10 114 10 1 914 25 235 mm
10 114 12 1 1114 25 286 mm
5 -15
0 112 4 114 312 32 89 mm
112 6 114 512 32 140 mm
112 8 114 714 32 184 mm
112 10 114 914 32 235 mm
METRIC PLYWOOD PANELS 112 12 114 1114 32 286 mm
Metric plywood panels are commonly available in two sizes: 1,200 mm
24 112 312 38 89 mm
2,400 mm and 1,220 mm 2,400 mm, which is roughly equivalent
to a 4 8-ft. sheet. Standard and Select sheathing panels come in 26 112 512 38 140 mm
standard thicknesses, while Sanded grade panels are available in 28 112 714 38 184 mm
special thicknesses.
2 10 112 914 38 235 mm
STANDARD SHEATHING GRADE SANDED GRADE 2 12 112 1114 38 286 mm
7.5 mm (516 in.) 6 mm (417 in.)
36 212 512 64 140 mm
9.5 mm (38 in.) 8 mm (516 in.)
44 312 312 89 89 mm
12.5 mm (12 in.) 11 mm (716 in.)
46 312 512 89 140 mm
15.5 mm (58 in.) 14 mm (916 in.)
18.5 mm (34 in.) 17 mm (23 in.) LIQUID MEASUREMENT EQUIVALENTS
13
20.5 mm ( 16 in.) 19 mm (34 in.) 1 Pint = 16 Fluid Ounces = 2 Cups
22.5 mm (78 in.) 21 mm 13
( 16 in.) 1 Quart = 32 Fluid Ounces = 2 Pints
25.5 mm (1 in.) 24 mm (1516 in.) 1 Gallon = 128 Fluid Ounces = 4 Quarts

DRILL BIT GUIDE
Twist Carbide-tipped Glass Spade Adjustable Hole
Bit Masonry & Tile Bit Counterbore Saw
NAILS
Nail lengths are identified by numbers from 4 to 60 followed by the letter d, which stands for penny. For general framing and repair work, use
common or box nails. Common nails are best suited to framing work where strength is important. Box nails are smaller in diameter than common nails,
which makes them easier to drive and less likely to split wood. Use box nails for light work and thin materials. Most common and box nails have a cement
or vinyl coating that improves their holding power.
LBS. MM IN.
20d 102 mm 4"
16d 89 mm 312"
10d 76 mm 3"
8d 64 mm 212"
6d 51 mm 2"
5d 44 mm 134"
4d 38 mm 112"
COUNTERBORE, SHANK & PILOT HOLE DIAMETERS

SCREW COUNTERBORE DIAMETER FOR SCREW CLEARANCE HOLE FOR PILOT HOLE DIAMETER
SIZE HEAD (IN INCHES) SCREW SHANK (IN INCHES) HARD WOOD (IN INCHES) SOFT WOOD (IN INCHES)
#1 .146 (964) 5
64 3
64 1
32
1 3 3 1
#2 4 32 64 32
1 7 1 3
#3 4 64 16 64
1 1 1 3
#4 4 8 16 64
1 1 5 1
#5 4 8 64 16
5 9 3 5
#6 16 64 32 64
5 5 3 5
#7 16 32 32 64
3 11 1 3
#8 8 64 8 32
3 11 1 3
#9 8 64 8 32
3 3 1 7
#10 8 16 8 64
1 3 5 9
#11 2 16 32 64
1 7 9 1
#12 2 32 64 8
METRIC CONVERSIONS 237

Index
access, 17 cold frames, 46, 62, 154, fans, 36
accessories 164167, 178181, fasteners, 64, 142
for greenhouses, 64 182187 fiberglass, 2425
for sunrooms, 124 compatibility, plant, 191 flagstone, 21, 153
acrylic, 25 concrete floor, 21 floors, 21
aesthetics, 17 concrete footing, 20 fluorescent tubes, 3031
A-frame greenhouse, 44 concrete pavers, 21 foundations, 14, 19
all-season water supply, 26 concrete slabs, 20 framing connectors, 60
alpine house, 52 conservation greenhouse, 53 framing materials, 2223
aluminum, 2223 conserving heat, 3435 freestanding greenhouses, 13
aluminum tracks, 142 conversion charts, 235 freestanding kit greenhouse,
Americans with Disabilities Act cool greenhouses, 13 94101
(ADA), 14 costs, 10, 14
anchor stakes, 19 counterbore diameters, 235 gabled greenhouse, DIY, 8893
anchors, 14, 19, 127 custom Victorian greenhouse, gallery of greenhouses, 5465
automatic lift arm, 73 6887 galvanized steel, 23
automatic vent openers, 36 gas heaters, 32, 33
design software, 53 glass, 24
bamboo trellis, 172175 DIY gabled greenhouse, 8893 glazing materials, 2425, 73
brick, 21, 153 dome greenhouse, 51 grading, 17
buckets, 153 doors, 93 gravel base, 19, 20, 21
building codes, 14, 122 drain, 27 greenhouse elements
built-in potting bench, drip-irrigation systems, 28 cooling, 3839
206209 dry wells, 27 examples, 11, 12, 15, 5465
dryer, solar produce, 232234 floors, 21
capillary mats, 2829 Dutch light greenhouse, 49 foundations, 19
caulk, 73 framing materials, 2223
cedar, 22 earth anchors, 19 glazing materials, 2425
choosing a greenhouse, 1015 easy-to-build greenhouses, 44 heating, 3235
climate, 17 electric heaters, 32 lighting, 3031
cloche, 150, 151 evaporative coolers, 39 overview of, 18

potting materials, 42 plastic door, 93 plant compatibility, 191
ventilation, 3637 raised bed, 190 planter, trellis, 222225
water, 2629 sun porch, 123124, planter with hanging trellis,
workbenches and storage, 4041 129139 226231
greenhouse shading compound, 38 sunroom, 122124 plastic, sheet, 104
greenhouse workbench, kneewalls, 19 plastic bottles, 151, 155
202205 plastic door kits, 93
greenhouses, examples of, 11, 12, lashing technique, 174 plastic pots, 42
15, 5465 lean-tos, 12, 13, 48 plastic tubing and fittings,104
LED grow lights, 31 plexiglas, 25
heat needs, calculating, 33 lettuce table, 218221 plumbing pipe, 153
heat sinks, 34, 153 lift arm, automatic, 73 plywood, metric, 235
heating, 10, 13, 3235 light requirements, 16 polycarbonate, 25
heating requirements, 33 light transmission, 25 polyethylene, 25
high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting, 3031 polygonal greenhouse, 51
lights, 30, 31 liquid shading, 39 polystyrene insulation, 34
high-low potting bench, low-maintenance sunroom, 140 portable cold frame, old-window,
214217 147 164167
high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights, lumber dimensions, 235 pots, terra cotta versus plastic, 42
30, 31 potting benches, 41, 206217
hoophouses, 23, 44, 52, Mansard greenhouse, 50 potting materials, 42
102107, 168171 metal halide (MH) lights, 30,31 poured concrete floor, 21
hot greenhouses, 13 metric conversion charts, 235 propane heaters, 32
hotbeds, 46 microclimates, 35 PVC (polyvinyl chloride), 23, 25
humidistats, 29 mini-greenhouse, 50 PVC hoophouse, 102107
hydroponics, 43 misting systems, 29
rain barrels, 26
incandescent bulbs, 30 oil heaters, 32, 33 raised bed kits, 190
insulation, 34 old-window greenhouse, 156163 raised planting bed, 188190
International Building Code (IBC), 14 old-window portable cold frame, raised planting bed & cover,
164167 192197
jumbo cold frame, 182187 redwood, 22
pallets, 151152 resources, 236
kerosene heaters, 32, 33 panel seam trim, 73 roof panels, 142
kits pathway gravel, 21 roof vents, 36, 39, 124, 126
freestanding greenhouse, 94101 pier footings, 20 rubber-gasket pole barn screws, 73
greenhouse, 45 pilot hole diameters, 235 R-values, 25
INDEX 239
seasonal water supply, 27 kits and accessories, upcycled greenhouses
seed starter rack, 198201 123124 materials for, 151153
shade cloth, 38 overview of, 122 overview of, 149
shades, 3839, 124 preparing installation site,126 rules for, 150
shading, liquid, 39 tools & materials for, 128 where to start, 150
shading compound, greenhouse, 38 ventilation for, 126 usage of greenhouse, 10
shank diameters, 235 sunrooms
shed-style greenhouse, about, 47 vent windows, 93
108121 kits for, 122124 ventilation, 33, 3637, 126
sheet plastic, 104 low-maintenance, 140147 vents, 36, 39
shelter, 17 swamp coolers, 39 Victorian greenhouse, custom,
shelves, 41 6887
simple potting bench, terra cotta pots, 42 vinyl glazing, 142
210213 thermostats, 35 Virtual Grower, 53
site for greenhouse, 1617 three-quarter span greenhouse, 49
size, 14 timber foundations, 20 wall panels, 142
slope, countering, 129 time commitment, 15 warm greenhouses, 13
snow load, 14 tires, 152153 water supply, 2627
soil stability, 17 traditional span greenhouse,48 watering systems, 2829
solar produce dryer, 232234 tree branch hoophouse, wind loads, 14
steel, 23 168171 windows
stone, 21, 153 trellis greenhouse with old,
storage, 41 bamboo, 172175 156163
straw-bale cold frame, 154 planter, 222225 portable cold frame with old,
styles for greenhouses, 4853 planter with hanging, 164167
sun porch 226231 upcycling, 152
anchoring, 127 winterization, 27
attaching to house, 125 United States Department of wood, 22, 152
building from kit, 129139 Agriculture (USDA), 53 workbenches, 4041, 202205
Universal Building Code (UBC),14

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BLACK+DECKER

The Complete Guide to DIY

GREENHOUSES Updated 2nd Edition

Build Your Own Greenhouses, Hoophouses,

Cool Springs Press titles are also available at discounts in bulk

Special Section: Upcycled Greenhouses & Cold Frames 149

Old-Window Greenhouse 156

Greenhouse Companion Projects 177

Greenhouse Workbench 202

Resources/Photo Credits 235

nter a greenhouse and youve crossed the

The most elaborate polycarbonate kit greenhouses

10 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

12 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

HEATED GREENHOUSE ENVIRONMENTS

Cool Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 45F (7C)

Warm Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 55F (13C)

Hot Minimum Nighttime Temperature: 65F (18C)

How Much Can I Afford to Spend on a Greenhouse?

BUILDING DEPARTMENT QUESTIONS

Do the building plans have to be site specific?

Does the greenhouse have to be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)compliant?

14 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

16 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

For maximum heat gain, orient

18 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

Earth anchors, or anchor stakes,

10" galvanized spikes

Compacted gravel base

24" #4 rebar stake

Welded wire mesh 3"-thick slab

Plywood 8"-thick perimeter

#4 bars 4" compacted

20 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

Pea gravel Crushed stone

22 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

An upscale example of a handsome prefab, aluminum-framed

24 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

wallsthe more walls, the greater Fiberglass panel 92% .9 Medium

AN ALL-SEASON WATER SUPPLY

26 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

Valve box shown cutaway

28 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

The right lighting

30 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

32 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

Do not place thermometers or thermostats in directsunlight.

Oil, gas, kerosene,

This heat sink

34 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

Make sure the greenhouse is as airtight as possible.

To prevent drafts, add a storm door.

Insulate all water- or steam-heating supply lines.

A heating and cooling thermostat

CALCULATING VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS

36 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES

GREENHOUSE SHADING COMPOUND

38 THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO DIY GREENHOUSES