Interested in starting your springtime vegetable plants from seed or propagating plants from cuttings? A small backyard greenhouse might be just the thing to help you achieve those goals.
Wayne Rowland, technician with Vance County’s Cooperative Extension service, reports that constructing a backyard greenhouse may be simpler than you’d think.
With some simple hand tools and some basic knowledge of construction, it’s not that difficult, Rowland said during on Monday’s segment of The Local Skinny!
All the materials can be purchased from most building supply stores, he said, from PVC pipe to the clear plastic sheeting used to cover the frame.
As for site selection, you’ll want a level spot that has good drainage. If you’re mainly interested in plant propagation – growing plants from cuttings of other plants – it’s best to place the structure in partial shade, such as on the north side of a large, deciduous tree.
For growing plants from seeds or for growing plants to maturity, it’s best to choose a site that has maximum sun exposure. You can always use a shade cloth to control the amount of sunlight, he added.
As for the frame of the greenhouse, treated lumber will hold up longer than untreated wood. But don’t use lumber treated with creosote, which could leech into the ground and then get into the plants.
If you don’t have a perfectly level spot for the greenhouse, Rowland said it’s better to dig a trench on the high side of the site instead of trying to build up the low side to ensure that the foundation boards are level.
The PVC pipe will be used for the uprights and overhead “ribs” that give the greenhouse shape. Use simple metal clamps to fit the pipe ends onto the wooden frame and tighten to ensure a solid fit. Stretch the clear sheeting over the frame and you’re done!
For more information, call 252.438.8188.
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