Are you tired of looking at your old backyard hobby greenhouse that has seen better days? Worry not, as it's the perfect time to breathe new life into that old structure and transform it into a thriving sanctuary for your plants. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the exciting process of remodeling and revitalizing your backyard greenhouse while sharing numerous creative ideas and helpful tips to ensure your project is a resounding success.
An older greenhouse can have a certain charm, with its worn-out frames and chipped paint hinting at untold stories of flourishing plants and the love that went into nurturing them. However, it's essential to maintain, upgrade, and improve your greenhouse to continue being a productive and efficient haven for your beloved plants. Refurbishing your old backyard hobby greenhouse boosts its functionality and enhances its aesthetic appeal, making it a beautiful focal point in your garden.
Join us on this exciting journey as we explore various ways to upgrade your existing greenhouse and provide you with practical advice to help you create the perfect haven for all your gardening needs. By the end of this blog post, you'll be inspired and motivated to embark on your backyard greenhouse remodeling adventure. So, let's roll up our sleeves and transform that dated structure into a beautiful and thriving space for your plants to grow and thrive.
1. Assessing the state of your old greenhouse
Before remodeling an older backyard hobby greenhouse, it is essential to assess its current state. This determines the extent of repairs and updates needed to transform it into a functional, efficient, and visually attractive space.
- Check for any visible damage to structural components: Examine the frame, glazing materials, and foundation for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, loose fittings, or cracks in the glass or plastic panels.
- Inspect ventilation systems: Proper airflow is crucial in a greenhouse, so ensure that vents, fans, and louvers are functioning efficiently and not blocked.
- Review the insulation: Analyze the current insulation materials and techniques to determine if they can be improved for better temperature regulation.
- Evaluate the lighting: It is essential to provide the right amount of light for plant growth, so consider upgrading to energy-efficient lighting if needed.
- Assess the watering system: Test the current system to ascertain its efficiency and determine if an upgrade or replacement is required.
- Probe the heating system: If your greenhouse has a heating system for colder months, inspect its working condition and efficiency in maintaining optimal temperatures.
Follow a step-by-step analysis to create a roadmap for remodeling your older backyard hobby greenhouse, ensuring it becomes a thriving haven for your plants. [1]
2. Repairing damaged or broken parts
A crucial step in remodeling an older backyard hobby greenhouse is repairing damaged or broken parts to ensure its durability and longevity. Aluminum greenhouse frameworks can become bent over time due to weather or physical damage. In some cases, you may need to repair these by:
- Gently straighten any bent elements with a hammer.
- Removing and replacing the damaged sections with spare greenhouse frame pieces available at garden centers or online shops.
- Assessing the all-important frame for stability and strength.
Furthermore, a Houzz Pro review highlights the importance of sealing weak points, like roof joints and window panels, to protect against wind and maintain insulation. Remember, a well-maintained and repaired greenhouse enhances its aesthetics and promotes the growth and health of your plants inside. [2]
3. Cleaning and sanitizing the structure
Cleaning and sanitizing the structure of a greenhouse is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy environment for your plants.
- According to the Center for Agriculture Food and the Environment at UMass Amherst, infectious microbes and algae can accumulate over time on moist surfaces, which has the potential to harbor pests and diseases.
- To avoid re-occurring problems, it is advised to clean your greenhouse and potting areas between crop cycles, removing weeds, debris, and soil. Using a Shop Vac or power washer with soap can also effectively remove dirt and grime.
- Soil and organic residues can reduce the effectiveness of disinfectants, so it is crucial to use cleaners specifically designed for greenhouse use. One such product is Strip-It, a combination of sulfuric acid and wetting agents that remove algae, dirt, and hard water deposits.
- It is essential to pay attention to areas often overlooked, such as rafters, window ledges, and tops of overhead piping. These hard-to-reach spots can hide hidden pathogens and should be thoroughly cleaned.
Incorporating a routine cleaning and sanitizing schedule for your greenhouse ensures your plant growth's long-term health and success. [3]
4. Upgrading ventilation and creating airflow
Upgrading the ventilation and creating better airflow in an older backyard hobby greenhouse is an essential step in optimizing the growing environment for plants. Efficient air circulation significantly reduces the risk of pest infestations, mold growth, and stagnant air that can harm plant health. Here are some methods to improve ventilation:
- Installing exhaust fans: According to Oklahoma State University, lean-to or even-span greenhouses greatly benefit from proper air circulation by integrating exhaust fans into the structure. These fans expel stale air and maintain the desired temperature and humidity levels inside the greenhouse.
- Roof or ridge vents: Adding adjustable roof or ridge vents provides the option to control airflow based on the seasonal requirements of the plants.
- Circulation fans: These fans are designed to move air horizontally, ensuring uniform temperatures throughout the greenhouse and preventing the formation of cold or hot spots.
By upgrading the ventilation of your older backyard hobby greenhouse, you'll create a more conducive environment for plant growth and overall health. [4]
5. Adding insulation to extend the growing season
Adding insulation to your older backyard hobby greenhouse can significantly extend the growing season, especially in colder climates such as Zone 5 and below. Here are key points to consider when insulating your greenhouse:
- Blocking drafts by sealing gaps and ensuring doors and vents fit securely is an essential first step.
- Bubble wrap is an affordable and effective insulation material, with more giant bubbles allowing more light in and providing better insulation. Consider using horticultural bubble wrap for a longer-lasting option.
- For optimal insulation, attach bubble wrap to the inside of your greenhouse frame, ensuring the roof and walls are covered.
- "Double or triple layers of row cover fabric laid directly on top of plants work well." This can help trap heat built up during the day and increase the greenhouse's warmth.
- Investing in insulation enables an extended growing season, providing a more diverse and cost-effective range of plants to cultivate in your greenhouse.
Adding insulation to your greenhouse can provide significant benefits, making it an ideal upgrade for your older backyard hobby greenhouse.
6. Upgrading to energy-efficient lighting
Upgrading to energy-efficient lighting is an essential step in remodeling an older backyard hobby greenhouse and offers numerous benefits for both the environment and the homeowner. For example, according to John W. Worley, Professor and Extension Engineer at the University of Georgia, hobby greenhouses are gaining popularity among homeowners for growing various plants (UGA Extension).
- Energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED lights, consume less electricity than traditional lighting systems, significantly reducing the cost of maintaining a greenhouse while conserving energy.
- LED lights also emit minimal heat, ensuring optimal temperature control for plant growth and reducing the risk of overheating the greenhouse.
- These modern lighting solutions have a longer lifespan, require less maintenance, and are less prone to breakage than conventional lighting systems.
In conclusion, upgrading to energy-efficient lighting in a backyard hobby greenhouse contributes to a greener environment, provides cost savings, and enhances plant growth conditions. [5]
7. Installing a new watering system
Installing a new watering system for your older backyard hobby greenhouse can save water and provide the precise moisture your plants need to thrive. One excellent option is upgrading to drip irrigation, which uses less water and offers targeted hydration for healthier, more efficient plant growth. Some new systems allow you to monitor water usage and remotely control the system from a computer or smartphone. This efficient system can even bypass watering restrictions, as drip irrigation is more water-wise than traditional irrigation methods.
Key benefits of a new watering system:
- Enhanced water efficiency through drip irrigation
- Ability to monitor and control the system remotely
- Adheres to watering restrictions in certain areas
- Ensures precise moisture delivery for optimal plant growth
8. Adding shelving for more efficient use of space
Adding shelving to your backyard greenhouse can efficiently optimize the available space and improve the overall organization within the structure. Utilizing the vertical space by installing shelves or hanging planters can significantly increase the total area for displaying or growing plants, as the 10 Greenhouse Shelving Ideas article supports. To make the most of the height in your greenhouse, consider options like:
- Trailing plants that grow downwards, which can be placed on high shelves or in hanging baskets
- Installing a combination of open and closed shelves for diverse storage requirements
- Opting for foldable shelves that can be easily moved, as demonstrated in the Ideal Home article
Remember to choose durable materials capable of supporting the weight of plants, soil, and water while keeping the greenhouse well-lit and organized. Incorporating shelving in your backyard hobby greenhouse is an investment that goes a long way in enhancing the space's aesthetics and utility.
9. Incorporating a heating system for colder months
Incorporating a heating system for your older
- Hotbeds: Utilize the natural heat generated from decomposing organic materials, such as a mix of straw and manure, to create a warm growing medium for your plants. This method is an affordable alternative to costly heating systems.
- Green energy options: Consider incorporating solar heaters, geothermal heating systems, or a heat sink to heat your greenhouse while minimizing your carbon footprint effectively.
Integrating an efficient heating system ensures that your greenhouse provides the ideal environment for your plants to thrive throughout the year, regardless of the outside temperature. This investment will extend your gardening season and allow you to grow a wider variety of plants.
10. Adding decorative touches for a personalized touch.
A well-designed, personalized backyard greenhouse serves as a nurturing space for plants and provides a charming and attractive addition to your garden or outdoor living area. To create an inviting and cozy atmosphere, consider these decorative ideas supported by factual data from a collection of 15 greenhouse decorating ideas and 75 greenhouse ideas found on Houzz:
- Opt for stylish shade cloth in various materials and colors to protect plants and create an appealing visual effect.
- Transform the greenhouse into a magical space with enchanting fairy lights, string lights, and attractive ceiling lights.
- Select stylish furniture like bar carts, metal shelves, and shower stools for added functionality and design.
- Incorporate soothing candlelight for a relaxing ambiance, using unique candleholders or vintage saucers paired with glass cloches.
- Choose eye-catching planters and pots to showcase your plants and add pops of color.
- Incorporate charming accessories like rain chains, wind chimes, and wreaths to make the space personalized and curated.
- Use attractive mulch options like moss and river rocks for a polished look while retaining water and keeping weeds at bay.
- Paint potting tables or shelves in striking colors to add character and style to the greenhouse.
- Include stylish seating options like garden stools or benches with outdoor-friendly cushions to enhance the space's appeal.
- Store gardening knick-knacks stylishly using baskets, tins, and glass jars for practicality and added style. [6]