Since starting my gardening journey, I have noticed every summer getting hotter than the previous one. As gardeners we must adapt to these changing conditions, ebbing and flowing with nature in order to allow for creative co-creation.
We get a lot of inquiries from customers on how to keep their greenhouses cool, especially from those living further south. This blog post aims to elaborate on some of the main points we touch on with customers in this regard.
1. Shade Curtains
As part of of our accessory offerings for the Victorian greenhouses, customers can choose to add shade curtains that are sized and fitted for their model. During the peak of the summer the extra shade will be appreciated by both the plants and their caretakers. The shade curtains are cream colored so the cooling effect will be more mild than that of the industrial shade cloth one sees installed at garden stores that is black, woven polyester.
2. Misting System
Have you ever been to Disney in the summer and while waiting over an hour in line for the next attraction been misted periodically? Just as this light application of water can feel lifesaving for overheated parents, they are just as welcome by plants on scorching days. We offer a misting system designed for the Victorian greenhouses that is easily hooked up to your hose. Depending on which model and size you are interested in, the kit may already have the misting system included. You can either use it manually or install an irrigation timer and have the misting be automated.
3. Ventilation
Fresh air is vital for greenhouses. It is not only extremely pleasant for the gardener inside, but also helps in preventing fungal growth inside. Some of the greenhouse kits include a side louver window. We highly recommend having at least two side louver windows installed directly across from each other to take advantage of the natural draft ventilation that is created by the cross breeze. Additionally you could install an exhaust fan to ensure there is fresh air in the greenhouse. Please inquire about which of our exhaust fans would work best for your model and size.
4. Placement
The location of where you choose to install your greenhouse plays a big role in how hot the greenhouse will get in the summer. It should be an aesthetic decision as well as a practical one. If you live in a cooler area, you will want to have full southern sun exposure during autumn, winter and spring. If you are further south you may prefer to have the greenhouse shaded for most of the year.
Understanding how the sun affects the area you want your greenhouse at different times of the day and year is of utmost importance. Perhaps your neighbor's house or your garage or a tall oak tree already provides southern or western shade on your intended greenhouse site.
This greenhouse is installed under the canopy of a deciduous forest. The greenhouse is shaded as long as leaves are on the tree. Then when the weather turns cool and the leaves fall, the greenhouse is exposed to sun. This might work well for those in very warm and sunny climates.
In this greenhouse, a shrub is planted along one of the sides of the greenhouse. Shading the west or south wall with a beautifully landscaped bed showcasing tall shrubs will protect your plants from the blistering afternoon sun in the summer and enhance the beauty of you greenhouse.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately you will have to experience the first (and second) summer with your greenhouse to understand how hot it will get inside and what adjustments could be made to provide the most conducive environment for your plants and yourself. Being observant and flexible, as most gardeners are, will go a long way in navigating the seasons.