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Hobby Greenhouses

Hobby Greenhouses by Solar Innovations, Inc.

Hobby Greenhouses: Build the Perfect Environment

A hobby greenhouse is defined as a structure which is used to grow and cultivate plants by a casual gardener. If your window sills are overflowing with plants, it is probably time to invest in a small scale hobby greenhouse. Typically speaking, a hobby greenhouse is less than 10’0” x 10’0”, but can be larger if needed. Standard sizes are available. All greenhouses can be customized to any size or shape. Small lean-to greenhouses that are attached to the house work very well for hobby greenhouses, as do free standing double pitched greenhouses.

In most areas within the United States, any structure under two hundred square feet, does not need a foundation, or permits. Please check with your local zoning board for more information on structure building permits. The greenhouse is seen as a temporary structure, similar to an outdoor shed. The hobby greenhouse should simply be attached to the ground with any number of anchoring solutions such as railroad ties, earth anchors or duckbill anchors. Consult your Solar Innovations, Inc. representative for a complete list of acceptable anchoring functions. Currently in design phases, Solar Innovations, Inc.is creating an aluminum base plate which will attach to the sill, and an anchor will be driven through the plate and sill into the ground. This base plate will further prevent any issues with moisture build-up and un level surfaces.

All hobby greenhouses are created out of aluminum which does not rust, rot, warp, or require constant finishing maintenance. The aluminum framework is available in thermally isolated and non-thermal depending on the number of seasons you will be growing plants. Visit the above link, Greenhouse Planning, to determine the best fit for your greenhouse. There are eight standard frame finishes available, along with any custom color you may require. Corrosion resistant anodized options are also available. In time, should you outgrow your greenhouse, Solar Innovations, Inc. hobby houses are easily converted to permanent greenhouse by simply adding a foundation and expanding the walls.

Glass or polycarbonate will be utilized within the framework. Both materials are suitable for greenhouses and come in different thickness and color variations. Polycarbonate tends to be less expensive and lighter in weight which reduces shipping costs. Glass on the other hand has a longer life than polycarbonate and tends to blend better with a home’s exterior façade. Polycarbonate is often the material of choice for a hobby greenhouse, especially one where the greenhouse is used only for spring and fall.

Hobby greenhouses can be used to grow any type of plant. The greenhouse can be dedicated to one specific genre such as orchids, bromeliads, and bonsai. A budding hobby, such as hydroponics, can be expanded with a hobby greenhouse. Other greenhouses are constructed with the intention of growing food for consumption. In this case seedlings are often started early in the year, grown to a seedling, then transplanted outside. No matter what will be grown in the greenhouse, Solar Innovations, Inc. can work with you to create the perfect environment for your plants.

Unlike many competitors, Solar Innovations, Inc. offers a complete line of greenhouse accessories. Anything that you would like can be added into the greenhouse. The greenhouse needs to be vented and Solar Innovations, Inc. offers ridge vents (motorized and manual), windows (awning and casement) and doors (single and French). Further than structural accessories, a circulating fan, benches and heating/cooling is recommended depending on desired timeframe usage. Decorative accessories are also available to set your greenhouse apart from “run-of-the-mill” models. Base panels, grid work and ridge cresting can all be added to the greenhouse to help create the coveted English-greenhouse look.

Hobby Greenhouse with a foundation.

Hobby Greenhouse without a foundation.

After the design is finalized Solar Innovations, Inc., or one of its nationwide dealers can supply and install the greenhouse for you. There are also “do-it-yourself hobby greenhouse kits” available for those who wish to buy factory direct and the complete the installation themselves. If you have an existing greenhouse that is in some way broke, Solar Innovations, Inc. can send an installation team to your home and the damaged area is typically able to be repaired. Should the damage be too great, Solar Innovations® offers demolition services. If you have a hobby greenhouse in mind, Solar Innovations® can assist you in designing the perfect hobby greenhouse to fuel your green thumb.

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