By: Charlene Rennick
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Constructing a design that allows for adequate air flow can make or break your greenhouse. Air exchange maintains a healthy balance between carbon dioxide and oxygen. It regulates the humidity which prevents mould and other types of rot from developing. Air circulation is essential for temperature control, plant growth, germination and the longevity of your construction materials.
Isn’t Solar Heat Enough?
Depending on your choices of construction material and the type of climate you have, your solar heating may need to be supplemented with an electric space heater or a gas-powered source. If you have to combat winter temperatures, the heat gathered during the day will disappear quickly into the extreme cold surrounding your greenhouse at night. Make sure to check the BTU chart on your heater or fan to make sure it is powerful enough to deal with the size of the greenhouse. For safety reasons, you may want to purchase the type of electric heater that has a built-in thermostat and an automatic shut-off gauge. If you prefer a fuel operated version, check with the retailer for the kind of emissions the fuel may discharge. Producing harmful vapours may not justify using a fuel operated heating device.
Any solar plan would designate vents near the top to dispel excess heat and circulation fans to cool the structure. A popular accessory for greenhouses is a sun shade which can be drawn during particularly hot weather to protect the plants from intense heat. Manual and automatic misting tools are available to compliment the need for healthy humidity levels and to offset the increase in temperature that occurs during the summer.
Check Your Materials for an Insulation Factor
Single layers of glass, polyethylene and polycarbonate do not provide much insulation between drastically different day and night time temperatures, but are okay if you live in a temperate environment. PVC panes have an average insulation value and once you start doubling or tripling layers, the greenhouse becomes more energy-efficient. If you are using single layers in your panes, you may want to consider doubling up in order to increase the insulation factor instead of spending all your money on heat just to have it sucked out the window.
Keeping it Humid without Breeding Bacteria
If your plants require a good deal of humidity in order to thrive, increasing the amount of moisture in the air could create excess water droplets in corners and crevices. These wet areas are the perfect breeding ground for moulds and bacteria. Supplementing solar heat with heat-dispensing grow lights and ventilating the environment will dry this up and re-balance your climate. You will need gauges to assist you with tracking the humidity and temperature in order to avoid unhealthy variations.
Good drainage is also important to prevent bacteria from growing in standing water or the bad kind of insects from becoming attracted to your plant haven. While some insects are desirable, others can be a detriment to your garden. You can choose a plant inventory that will compliment a balance between helpful and harmful bugs. By way of an example, tomatoes and roses attract bugs while rosemary, mint and lavender deter them from sticking around and destroying your foliage.
Hydroponic Growing Systems Suit Greenhouses
Using a hydroponic growing system for your greenhouse as opposed to a soil-based plan will reduce the chances of insect infestation, help you to achieve an optimal air flow and reduce moisture damage. Hydroponic systems include grow lights, ventilation, humidity and temperature control as part of their unique indoor gardening design.