Which Residential Greenhouse Style is Best For Oregon?
When selecting a greenhouse for residential use, several factors come into play - especially given the unpredictable weather of Oregon. This includes space availability, intended use, climate, and personal preferences.
Depending on your circumstances, here are some greenhouses that are often well-suited for residential homes in Oregon:
Glass Greenhouses
Pre-manufactured greenhouses with glass panels for residential use can be a beautiful addition to your garden. Glass paneled greenhouses are known to be durable and aesthetically pleasing. Their glass panels allow for excellent light transmission and durability, making them suitable for various climates. They can also add value to the property due to their visual appeal and longevity.
Polycarbonate Greenhouses
Corrugated Polycarbonate greenhouses are known for their durability and insulation properties. Polycarbonate panels are lightweight and offer good light diffusion while being virtually unbreakable - a huge benefit if you live near trees that drop debris in the winter. They're a popular choice for residential greenhouses due to their cost-effectiveness and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Twinwall/Triplewall Polycarbonate greenhouses are similar to corrugated polycarbonate in that these panels provide excellent insulation and are lightweight in design. However, their multi-layered design offers enhanced thermal properties, making them highly suitable for climates with extreme temperatures such as mountain regions and desert climates.
Poly Film Greenhouses
Poly film coverings for greenhouses are a cost-effective option for small-scale residential greenhouses. While less durable than glass or polycarbonate, poly film provides adequate insulation and light transmission. They're ideal for temporary or seasonal use, such as getting your plants started in the spring and protecting them from late season frosts.
Cold Frame Greenhouses
Cold frame greenhouses are not designed to be used with gas or electric heat. Rather, they rely on the heat from the sun to create a microclimate to protect your plants and temporarily extend a growing season. Cold frame greenhouses are excellent for growing cool-season plants that are able to withstand lower overnight temperatures. These are often small, simple structures used for season extension or starting seeds early in the spring. They're cost-effective and easy to set up, making them suitable for smaller residential spaces.
Shade or Screen Houses
Shade and screen houses are different from a traditional greenhouse. The shade cloth is typically made from knitted polyethylene fabric that does not rot, mildew, or become brittle. These structures serve to provide shade and protection from insects. They're beneficial in warmer climates or during hot seasons to prevent overheating of plants. Shade cloth can also be employed on poly-film greenhouses to protect plants during high heat periods.
Tunnel Greenhouses
Tunnel or high tunnels greenhouses differ from a typical greenhouse in that their plants are typically planted directly into the ground. These structures offer extended growing seasons and provide protection from adverse weather. They are relatively easy to set up and can be a good option for residential gardeners looking to maximize growing space.
Ultimately, the best residential greenhouse style for a home will depend on your individual needs, budget, available space, position relative to the sun, local climate, and the intended use of the greenhouse. It's essential to consider these factors when choosing the most suitable greenhouse for your specific residential gardening needs.
Have a question? Reach out to our team here or by calling 503-569-3042.