LET'S TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
There are now ways to grow crops even when there is snow on the ground and the soil is frozen from frost! Using an enclosed structure, you can protect your plants from frost damage and can even continue to grow plants all year round.
Some vegetables can even produce a harvest if grown properly under the right conditions and temperatures.
So how can you achieve this level of year-round gardening? With a greenhouse or cold frame. Although they are similar, there are some key differences between a cold frame and a greenhouse. Wondering which is which? Well, you’ve come to the right place because we’re going to break down the cold frame vs. greenhouse design.
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF A GREENHOUSE AND A HOTHOUSE?
The biggest similarity between a greenhouse and a hothouse would be that they are both closed structures whose main purpose is to protect plants and seedlings from climatic conditions such as cold wind, frost, snow and sleet.
The biggest difference between a greenhouse and a hothouse is that a hothouse is usually does not use a heat source, may have a small height, do not install doors in the greenhouse; whereas a greenhouse is It is a tall structure with heating and ventilation systems for year-round controlled climate.
COMPARISON OF A GREENHOUSE AND A GREENHOUSE
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GREENHOUSE
STRUCTURE
A greenhouse is an enclosed structure that is used primarily to protect plants and seedlings. The four walls are usually made of glass or wood with a removable glass or wood top. A greenhouse will have a more enclosed shape and depending on how it is built, it can be as low as three feet or as long as six feet.
A greenhouse is usually placed against an existing structure to provide a higher level of protection from the harsh climate changes that can occur during the winter months. Generally, heat is not used in a greenhouse because those who want a heated structure will build a greenhouse if possible. The plants and vegetation that will be placed in a greenhouse usually require some form of protection, such as burlap wrapping, or they are plants that can survive in colder temperatures during the winter but will quickly perk up in the spring. Heat can be used in a cold frame, and this heat source can come from a heated water bottle to an actual heater.
MAINTENANCE
The greenhouse does not require much maintenance other than daily checking to make sure there is no debris or anything else on the surface. With the slightest covering, not enough sunlight can reach the plants. This is especially true in the winter months when the top may be covered with snow.
EXPENSES
This is what largely determines the cost of building or buying a cold storage room; whether you build it or buy one already made. Ready-made models cost from 1000 to 2500 UAH depending on the size. If you build it, it really depends on the materials you use, but realistically it should range from 1000 to 3500 UAH.
GREENHOUSE
STRUCTURE
A greenhouse is an enclosed structure with four walls, a roof, a doorway, a heat source, and a ventilation system. Typically constructed of wood or wooden frames covered with glass or industrial plastic, a greenhouse will be tall enough for an adult to move around comfortably inside. Greenhouses are usually shaped like a small house, hence the name, with a peaked roof and ventilation systems for air and heat.
Greenhouses can be placed next to an existing structure, such as a house, but are usually built separately in a section of the yard. A greenhouse requires ventilation to prevent the air from becoming too warm or humid, but also requires a constant heat source to prevent damage to plants and seedlings due to cold temperatures. Serious greenhouses will also need a lighting system that simulates sunrise during the day and sunset in the evening, providing about 12 hours of darkness. This, of course, depends on the plants inside and their growth schedule.
MAINTENANCE
A greenhouse can be a high maintenance addition to your yard as it needs to be cleaned, the walls need to be structurally sound with no leaks, and it needs to be kept fairly clean to ensure that no bacteria or mites are infesting the plants you are trying to grow. Plants inside will also need to follow the same schedule as those outdoors in the ground, with watering, pruning, and the like.
EXPENSES
As with a cold frame, the cost of a greenhouse depends entirely on whether you buy a pre-built greenhouse or build one. A pre-built greenhouse kit can be purchased for between $200 and $2,000, depending on the size, quality, and materials used. If you build one, you can really keep the cost down, with the largest size under $500.
CONCLUSION
Now that we have learned about the similarities and differences between a greenhouse and a hothouse, we can make the best decision about which one will benefit us the most in terms of our garden, vegetable garden or summer cottage needs. With a little effort, supplies and time; you can install a greenhouse or a hothouse right in your yard. You can buy ready-to-assemble structures from us.
Consult a gardening expert if you are unsure what size will be best for the vegetation and greenery planted in your yard. Determine what size will not only fit comfortably in your yard, but will also accommodate any plants you wish to protect.
A greenhouse that will last longer than others
Gardening is a great source of exercise and shouldn't stop just because there's snow on the ground. Invest in a greenhouse or hothouse today and you too can beat the winter blues by surrounding yourself with nature!