Things To Know Before Buying A Greenhouse
Are you considering adding a greenhouse to your garden? Greenhouses are a fantastic investment, providing a controlled environment for growing plants all year round, and a treasured space for passionate gardeners. However, before buying your greenhouse, there are a few important factors you should consider.
In this article, we'll discuss some of the key questions and considerations people often have when thinking about purchasing a greenhouse. So, if you're a keen gardener, sit back and let us guide you through the process.
Do I need planning permission for a greenhouse?
It’s an important question, and you’ll be happy to know that in most cases, you are unlikely to need planning permission for a greenhouse, as long as it meets certain criteria. In the UK, structures considered "permitted development" don't require planning permission.
These are the key aspects to consider in determining whether you will need planning permission:
- Size matters: The size of your greenhouse is the primary factor in whether you will need planning permission, or can go ahead without it. A smaller structure is less likely to require it, and factors such as the height of the eaves will make a difference, as well as the percentage of garden space it is covering. Check what the size limitations are for permitted developments in your local area before settling on a greenhouse.
- Positioning: Be mindful of where you place your greenhouse. Ensure it is not closer to a road or a public footpath than your home, as that could make it a matter for planning consent.
- Listed buildings and conservation areas: If your property is a listed building or in a conservation area, you might need permission to put it up. In some places, you might be asked to ensure that the style of greenhouse is in keeping with the property. It's best to check with your local planning authority, or heritage organisation, in such cases.
- Temporary or permanent: Temporary greenhouses, such as pop-up or portable designs, usually don't need planning permission. However, some permanent structures might.
- Greenhouse regulations: Ensure your greenhouse complies with building regulations for safety, ventilation and materials.
Local planning regulations differ. It's always a good idea to check with your local planning department to confirm whether your intended greenhouse falls within permitted development rights or if you need to apply for planning permission. For some, this may even influence the choice about size of greenhouse, so it’s best to check before your local planning regulations before you get too far into the process.
Where Should I Position My Greenhouse?
Not every spot in your garden will be suitable for a greenhouse. The important factors to consider as you plan where to place your greenhouse are:
- Sunlight and shade: Select a location that receives adequate sunlight, to make the most of all the warmth and light that make it such a brilliant space for growing. Greenhouses should ideally be positioned with the long side facing south, to maximise sun exposure.
- Access and pathways: Ensure there is a clear pathway to your greenhouse, and consider the ease of access for watering, planting and harvesting. You will also need to clean your greenhouse glass at times, so make sure there is access for cleaning and maintenance as well.
- Aesthetics: Think about the visual impact of your greenhouse in your garden. It should blend harmoniously with your landscape and not obstruct views or dominate the space.
- Wind protection: If your garden is prone to strong winds, consider windbreaks or positioning the greenhouse in a sheltered area where it won’t bear the brunt of the worst winter storms.
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Local climate: Take your local weather conditions and climate into account. A greenhouse can extend your growing season, but you may need to manage excessive heat in the height of summer too.
- Flat ground: Your greenhouse needs to be on flat, firm ground. You’ll find advice below about choosing a suitable base, but no matter what you opt for, make sure that your position is not on a slope or on uneven ground.
What Size Greenhouse Is Right For Me?
When choosing the size of your greenhouse, there are two major factors (beyond planning requirements) that may influence your decision:
- The size of your garden, and the space available to you in a suitable position (see above!)
- How many crops you plan to grow may also influence your choice.
If you have the space for it, plan to use your greenhouse in every season of the year and are an avid gardener, you could opt for our 12ft wide Rhino greenhouse range. These are roomy, and offer extensive space for growing.
If you’re just starting out, or don’t have a large garden, a 6ft wide Rhino greenhouse still offers plenty of space to enjoy growing your favourite plants.
For those who are managing smaller spaces or patio gardens, you don’t need to give up your greenhouse dreams. Our patio greenhouses have been designed to the highest quality specifications, to make the most of exactly those gardens.
Before choosing your size of greenhouse we recommend that you measure carefully. Remember that it’s not just room for the greenhouse itself, you also need access for cleaning and maintenance, so don’t plan to jam it into an inaccessible corner.
Once you’ve chosen the size that you think works for you, we recommend marking it up in the space, to help you visualise the greenhouse size in relation to the rest of your garden.
What do I need to do before my greenhouse arrives?
Before your greenhouse is delivered, there is some essential preparation to complete, to make sure everything goes smoothly when it arrives. Here are some tasks to tackle in advance:
- Book Installation or prepare to install yourself: While our greenhouses are designed to be easily assembled, there is of course a time commitment involved. We also offer an installation service, and many customers prefer to book installation from our friendly team.
- Clear the area: Remove any obstructions, plants, or debris from the chosen site to create a clean foundation for your greenhouse. This will make installation much easier.
- Foundation and flooring: Decide on the type of foundation or flooring you want for your greenhouse. Options include concrete, gravel, or for our Rhino greenhouses, even just soil. Whatever base you choose, ensure it is level, clear and ready for assembly.
- Utilities: Consider the proximity to water and electricity sources. If you plan to run electricity to your greenhouse for heating or lighting, make your arrangements for this. Whether you are planning to water by hand or with an irrigation system, having easy access for a hose, or even a smart tap installed, will make a big difference.
- Shelving and storage: Think about how you will organise the interior of your greenhouse. Shelving and storage options can help keep your plants and gardening tools neat and tidy, and make it easier to make the most of your space.
- Planting beds: Plan the layout of your planting beds, planters and pots, and think about the types of plants you want to grow. You may also need to consider support for plants as they grow, such as for climbers and vines.
- Ventilation and heating: If you intend to use your greenhouse year-round, consider ventilation and heating options. Our automatic vent openers help to regulate the temperature to prevent overheating. You may choose to insulate in winter, for which there are many options, or to use electric heaters to add warmth in the coldest months.
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Maintenance: Be prepared for regular maintenance. Greenhouses require cleaning, pest control and checking for signs of wear and tear.
What Should I Start Growing?
If you’re new to greenhouse gardening, you have a treat in store. The world is your oyster in terms of what you could grow, from the most standard and reliable crops to some more adventurous and rare plants.
Most people start with tomatoes, because they are easy to grow, there are lots of interesting varieties to try, and they can be delightfully bountiful in a greenhouse. Other crops for greenhouse beginners include family favourites such as salad leaves, courgettes, cucumbers, and herbs. If you’ve attempted to grow these in your garden, you’ll see a huge difference as they ripen in the controlled climes of your greenhouse.
You can also think of plants to start growing in your greenhouse, that can be moved on into your garden beds and planters when they are big enough and when the weather conditions are right. These may be best to start in pots, so that you can transition them outside and ‘harden them off’ before transplanting them fully.
Remember you don’t just have to stick to veg! You can experiment with growing your favourite flowers too, whether fragrant and delicate, or big beautiful blooms.
If you want advice about where to start, and also what not to do, you might find it helpful to explore some of our articles on this site for more ideas and tips.
Selecting the perfect greenhouse for you
Now that you've considered the practical aspects of owning a greenhouse, it's time to select the right greenhouse for your needs. Greenhouses come in various shapes, sizes and materials, so make sure to choose one that suits your gardening goals and preferences.
Check out our Greenhouse Buyers Guide for all the information you need.
A greenhouse can be a game-changer for your gardening endeavours, extending your growing season and allowing you to experiment with a wide range of plants. To ensure a successful greenhouse purchase, make sure you're aware of planning permission requirements, carefully plan the location and size, and prepare your garden for the arrival of your new structure. With the correct preparation and selection, you'll soon enjoy the benefits of a flourishing greenhouse garden in the UK. Happy gardening!