GH advice ? - Orchid Board

orchid-eric · #1 04-09-2009, 05:02 PM

Hi everybody. I'm beginning to build my gh, 10 x 20 and had a question. What can someone do to save money running their gh ? Things you've tried and saw results, tried and failed,any ideas you have. I look forwad to you're answers and ideas. Thank you very much !

Eric

Ethan · #2 04-09-2009, 07:00 PM

ummmm....less expensive?? LOL I wish I could be of some help, but so far I haven't found any money saving tips other than making the sun shine more on the colder days. If anyone knows how to make that happen, PLEASE LET ME KNOW!!!

One tip I will give you (which has nothing to do with saving money...) is if you're building your greenhouse just big enough to hold the plants you already have, make it bigger!!!! I've heard so many times and experienced it myself: "always build bigger than what you think you'll need". Sadly, I learned the hard way.

orchid-eric · #3 04-09-2009, 08:30 PM

ha ha, right now that would give me a ton of extra room as I have only about 50 plants right now. Thanks for the tip though.

Eric

Brooke · #4 04-09-2009, 08:33 PM

I don't know what your covering will be but additional insulation with a solar pool cover will greatly reduce your heating costs.

I agree with Ethan, more sun in the winter would definitely help but you still have those L-O-N-G C-O-L-D winter nights to endure.

Brooke

HDCochran · #5 04-11-2009, 10:59 AM

Here are some suggestions: Seal all joints, seams, etc. especially in roof. Heat with most locally economic fuel. Cover exhaust fan. Glaze with twin-(or multi-)wall polycarbonate. Do not glaze north wall; make it a solid wall and insulate (2" foam). Use bubble wrap or pool cover under roof panels. If you use RO for orchids, use reject water for under-bench misting/cooling. Use adequate circulation fan(s).