Your Guide to Buying a Lean To Greenhouse | The Shedstore Blog (2024)

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of a lean-to greenhouse? ›

The disadvantages with these types of greenhouses are that the smaller space can mean you're limited in the amount you grow, and how you use your greenhouse. It can be hard to control the temperature of a lean-to greenhouse because the side next to the main wall will always be warmer.

Basically any south-facing wall of adequate height and width can accommodate your lean to greenhouse. South-facing is ideal, as it ensures your plants receive the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day. It's not a problem if your location is a few degrees off south.

Lean to greenhouses allow you to make the most of your available space; place them up against a wall or fence for a space-saving growing solution.

Space Saving Greenhouses

If you haven't got room for a greenhouse, or you have a small space that you want to make use of, a lean-to greenhouse is an excellent alternative to a free-standing glasshouse. By fitting neatly against an exterior wall, it's a design that works beautifully in more confined outdoor spaces.

However, if you're just going to use your greenhouse in spring and summer, it's better if the ridge runs north-south so both sides of the greenhouse get an equal amount of light. For lean-to greenhouses the best location is south-facing, with the supporting wall on the north side.

As structures, greenhouses are not typically biodegradable because they are often made of materials like glass, plastic, aluminium, or steel, which are not biodegradable. Plastics, a common component of modern greenhouses, pose a significant environmental threat.

Don't put your greenhouse directly under trees. They'll cast shade, which encourages green algae to build up, blocking even more light, while falling branches and leaves can cause damage and block guttering. Honeydew from insects on the foliage of trees can make the glass or plastic sticky and dirty.

A good greenhouse floor will protect it from moisture and pests, and it will make it easier to keep the interior clean. In addition, a floor can add insulation, which can help keep your greenhouse warm in the winter.

The north side is the last resort and the least optimal site for a greenhouse. Try to situate the greenhouse lengthwise from north to south rather than east to west. This position provides the structure with more light and less shade.

If you do not have a wall available, or if the wall is rough, then we do offer glass backs for all of our lean to Mini greenhouses. However, there is nothing to stop you from making your own back from timber – this saves on cost, but will need regular maintenance.

Where should a greenhouse be placed in your yard? ›

Location of the Greenhouse

Many gardeners believe that a greenhouse should always be located facing south so that it receives the most light possible.

Shelter your greenhouse by situating fences or hedging in the way of the prevailing winds. Also be aware that areas that look 'sheltered' may in fact be 'wind tunnels' (e.g down the side of a house). This is very important.

The advantage of the lean-to greenhouse is that it usually is close to available electricity, water, and heat. The lean-to has the following disadvantages: Limited space. Limited light.

For effective ventilation:

Open all doors and vents on sunny days. These can be left open at night if the temperature remains high. It is sometimes necessary to temporarily remove panes from glasshouses to assist ventilation in heat waves. Fit automatic vent openers to ensure roof vents open even when you are not ...

Just make sure to avoid installing it under tall trees to avoid mold growth due to light limitations and pest infestation. Also, it's best to position your lean to greenhouse facing south for maximum sunlight exposure.

For that reason, the greenhouse effect, far from being our great ally as was the case in the past, is now a risk to our survival. The flooding of coastal cities, the desertification of fertile areas, the melting of glacial masses and the proliferation of devastating hurricanes are just some of the main consequences.

The Pros of a Poly Lean-to:

Inexpensive extra space for crop or storage. Provides wind resistance. Easy to relocate after adding more greenhouses to a side. Can help maximize land usage by using a custom sized lean-to.

Cons. The biggest cons of freestanding greenhouses boil down to inconveniences. In particular, the biggest challenge will be bringing power and water to the greenhouse. You will likely need to dig a ditch to lay down new water pipes and a suitable extension cord to run power from your home to the greenhouse.