GROWN UNDER GLASS
Chris White, sales operations manager at Hartley Botanic offers expert advice on owning a glasshouse
Q Where should I position my glasshouse?
Site your greenhouse where it will get as much sunlight as possible, avoiding shadows from tall trees, fences or walls. For lean-tos placed against a wall, a south-facing position is ideal; while for standalone structures, the ridge along the top of the roof should face from east to west, as this will let the sun run along its longest side during the day.
Qwhat is a lean-to greenhouse?
A great choice for smaller gardens, lean-to greenhouses use a pre-existing south-facing wall to form the backbone of the greenhouse. They work well both in walled gardens and against a property’s external wall, adding a practical space as well as architectural interest.
Q Which design is best for period homes?
For traditional properties, the Victorian designs in our range are firm favourites. These feature details such as finials and roof cresting, which allow gardeners to enjoy authentic period styling. Conversely, some homeowners like to mix a period home with a modern greenhouse design.
Q Is there anything I need to look for in the glass?
Choose toughened safety glass as it is five times stronger than regular glass and safer if it breaks. Also, look at whether the greenhouse is made from individual panes or large single sheets, as it is easier and cheaper to replace smaller panes if broken.
You can also get self-cleaning glass, which keeps the glass bright and clear using rainwater and UV rays.
Q Do I need planning permission for a glasshouse?
Planning consent is not usually needed for domestic greenhouses. However, if your home is listed or you live in a conservation area, then you should check with your local planning authority. Also, you may need to apply for planning permission if the greenhouse will be disproportionately large in relation to the size of your home; see planningportal.co.uk for details.
Q How can I make the most of it year round?
A greenhouse allows you to extend the growing season and though artificial heat is not essential, using a thermostatically controlled electric fan heater, gas heaters or even central heating will further widen your growing window.
Q What’s the best way to control pests?
Prevention is always better than a cure. Reduce the risk of red spider mites in the summer by raising the greenhouse’s humidity. Keep whitefly numbers down by suspending yellow adhesive strips above plants. A toad should always be a welcomed guest as it will help to manage the slug population.