If you’ve ever thought about setting up a greenhouse, using a kit with a steel frame is a great way to get started. That’s exactly what we did, and while it was a mostly straightforward process, we did learn a few things along the way—especially when it came to dealing with the heat in a subtropical climate!
Choosing the Right Greenhouse Kit
Greenhouse kits come in all shapes and sizes, but we opted for one with a sturdy steel frame. The steel provides excellent durability, and it’s resistant to rust (which is important in humid conditions). The kit itself was relatively easy to put together, with clear instructions and pre-cut materials.
One thing we quickly realised, though, was that while the frame was solid, we needed a strong base to anchor it properly. Greenhouses can be surprisingly vulnerable to strong winds, and in our area, we wanted to make sure it wouldn’t take off like a giant kite during a storm.
Building a Strong Foundation
Rather than using the steel frame’s standard ground pegs, we opted for a wooden base frame. This added extra weight and stability, keeping the greenhouse well-grounded. We used treated hardwood, ensuring it would withstand moisture and termites. The wooden base also made it easier to level the greenhouse on uneven ground, which was a bonus.
For anyone setting up a greenhouse, we’d definitely recommend considering a wooden base, especially if your ground is soft or prone to erosion. Plus, it makes securing additional features (like shelves or benches) much easier.
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Covering the Greenhouse: PVC vs Shade Cloth
Our kit came with PVC plastic as the recommended covering. PVC has great benefits, particularly in colder climates. It traps heat, retains moisture, and creates an ideal microclimate for growing plants in winter. Initially, we stuck with this setup and noticed an immediate difference—our seedlings thrived, and the increased humidity was fantastic for leafy greens.
However, in our subtropical climate, we quickly ran into a problem: it got way too hot. Even with ventilation, the greenhouse turned into a sauna during the day. Some plants struggled, and we found ourselves needing to water far more frequently to keep everything from wilting.
After a few months, we made the call to remove the PVC plastic and replace it with 70% shade cloth. This change was a game-changer. The shade cloth allowed for much better airflow while still providing protection from harsh sun exposure. Our young plants flourished under the gentler conditions, and we were able to extend the growing season for more delicate crops like strawberries.
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The Benefits of Having a Greenhouse
Even with our adjustments, the benefits of having a greenhouse have been well worth the effort. Here are a few of the key advantages we’ve found:
1. Protects Young Plants
Whether you’re growing from seed or nurturing seedlings before transplanting, a greenhouse provides a controlled environment to give plants the best possible start. The shade cloth version in particular has been a lifesaver during the hottest months.
2. Extends the Growing Season
In cooler climates, a greenhouse with PVC plastic allows for growing crops well beyond their normal season. In our case, the shade cloth setup helps keep plants going through the extreme summer heat, preventing sunburn and dehydration.
3. Ideal for Sensitive Plants
Some plants just don’t handle direct sun exposure well. Having a greenhouse means we can grow things like ferns, orchids, and delicate herbs without worrying about them getting scorched.
4. Better Pest Control
While a greenhouse won’t completely eliminate pests, it does provide an extra layer of protection against common garden invaders like birds, possums, and large insects. Adding fine mesh to the shade cloth can help keep out smaller pests as well.
5. Perfect for Propagation
We use our greenhouse to propagate strawberry runners, and it’s been fantastic for getting new plants established before moving them into the main garden. The controlled conditions help cuttings take root more reliably.
Lessons Learned & Final Thoughts
Looking back, we’re really happy with our decision to build a greenhouse, but there are a few things we’d do differently if we started over:
- Consider climate first – If you’re in a hot climate like ours, you might want to skip PVC altogether and go straight for shade cloth. If you’re in a cooler area, the PVC option is fantastic for trapping warmth.
- Make sure your base is solid – The extra effort in securing a sturdy base paid off, especially during heavy rain and strong winds.
- Ventilation is key – If you do go with PVC, having plenty of ventilation (doors, windows, or roll-up sides) will help regulate temperature and humidity.
At the end of the day, a greenhouse is an excellent addition to any garden. Whether you’re looking to grow food year-round, protect delicate plants, or just enjoy experimenting with new crops, it’s well worth the effort. And if you’re in a hot climate like us, don’t be afraid to swap out the traditional plastic for shade cloth—it could make all the difference!