Are you a homeowner with a greenhouse that could use a little TLC? If your greenhouse requires some renovations, you may be considering ways to improve the space. One popular way to improve greenhouses is by increasing the light entering the structure. More light means better growing conditions for your plants, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking to spruce up your greenhouse.
Not sure how to increase the amount of light in your greenhouse? Don’t worry; there are tricks to designing and renovating your greenhouse for more light.
Greenhouse Design and Architecture
When it comes to increasing the amount of light in your greenhouse, one of the most important considerations is the design and architecture of the structure itself. Greenhouses are typically designed with either a gable or lean-to roof. Gable roofs are triangular and are known for being very strong and durable. On the other hand, lean-to roofs slope down from one side and are a bit more susceptible to damage from high winds or heavy snowfall.
If you’re looking to maximize the amount of light that enters your greenhouse, a lean-to roof will be your best bet. That’s because lean-to roofs allow for more sun exposure than gable roofs. So, if you’re planning a renovation and can choose between a gable and a lean-to roof, a lean-to is the way to go.
Try Adding Supplemental Lighting
By using supplemental lighting, growers can extend the daylight hours. Gardeners turn these lights on before sunrise and/or after sunset to create a continuous light cycle for plants inside the greenhouse by combining artificial light with natural sunlight.
If you’re not a professional, using supplemental lighting during non-peak hours in your greenhouse is probably not a good idea. Two light cycles within the same 24-hour period can cause “confusion” for the plants, producing fewer fruit or flowers.
If you’re thinking about adding additional lighting to your greenhouse, there are a few things to consider. The first thing you’ll need to think about is the type of illumination you want to use. You’ll find various options on the market, so doing some research is recommended. After you’ve chosen your lights, you’ll need to determine how they’ll be powered. Solar-powered lights are an excellent option if you want an environmentally friendlier choice.
Improving Ventilation and Airflow
Another important consideration regarding increasing the amount of light in your greenhouse is ventilation and airflow. Good ventilation and airflow help ensure that hot air rises while cooler air circulates throughout the space. This circulation helps create an environment that is ideal for plant growth.
You can improve ventilation and airflow in your greenhouse in a few different ways. One way is to install automatic vents that open and close to regulate temperature and airflow. Another way is to install fans which can help move air around and prevent stagnant pockets of air from forming. Whichever method you choose, improving ventilation and airflow will help you increase the amount of light in your greenhouse.
Adding Windows and Skylights
One of the simplest ways to increase the amount of light in your greenhouse is by adding windows or skylights. A great type of skylight to install is a flat rooflight because they let in a lot of light while still being durable and weather-resistant. If your current greenhouse has no windows or skylights, now might be a good time to add them! Windows and skylights let natural sunlight enter the space, which can help brighten things up.
When adding windows or skylights to your greenhouse, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
- You’ll want to ensure they’re placed strategically to let in as much light as possible without sacrificing heat retention.
- You’ll want to ensure they’re big enough so they don’t just look like tiny holes in the walls.
- You’ll want to make sure they’re made of materials that won’t shatter easily (like glass), so they can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Adding windows or skylights is a great way without major changes to the structure itself. Plus, it’s a relatively inexpensive option compared to other methods we’ve mentioned!
To Sum It Up
Getting enough light into a greenhouse can be challenging but important for healthy plant growth. If renovating an existing greenhouse, try adding more windows and reflective surfaces inside the house. If starting from scratch, choose a sunny location and orient the house so the longest walls run north-south. You may also want to use translucent materials for part of the roof to let in more diffuse light. Following these tips ensures that your plants get all the light they need to thrive.
