Growers looking to build a greenhouse to add to their existing business or an existing greenhouse structure have several choices to make that can improve ROI and ensure a healthy profit going forward. However, failure to make the right choices can result in wasted time and money.

The experienced team at Adapt8 can help you make the right decisions for your business by offering several tips to successfully plan and build a greenhouse, including a recommendation for the best greenhouse covering that will strengthen your greenhouse structure while allowing maximum diffuse light for photosynthesis and withstand the severe effects of wind, snow, hail, and anything else Mother Nature throws at us.

Here are 10 tips to successfully build a greenhouse, including some advice on how to increase profits by up to 25 percent.

1. Determine the goals for your greenhouse project.

What do you plan to grow now and in the future? How many plants do you need to grow to be profitable? Answering these questions will help you determine what size of greenhouse(s) to install and if it needs to be heated or if a cold frame will suffice. Also consider what you could be growing throughout the year as the season changes. An energy-efficient greenhouse can be utilized most if not all of the year, so plan crop opportunities accordingly. Growing a summer crop is a possibility, even in the hotter regions of the country, especially if you purchase an insulated covering.

2. Choose the right greenhouse frame for your operation.

Things to consider include gutter-connected vs. free standing, top and/or side venting. Shop local, if possible. In these days of high shipping costs a grower can save a lot of money by buying a greenhouse that doesn’t have to be shipped across the country. Greenhouses built and sold in your locale should meet standards for snow load and tolerance to wind and other climatic factors in your area. Be sure to check the greenhouse specifications before making a purchase.

3. Find a good location to build a greenhouse.

Locate your greenhouse where you can readily hook up to a reliable source of fresh water and electricity. Note: the water should be tested for contaminants and pH preferably before you purchase the land. Your climate and location will determine if it is best to construct your greenhouse with a north to south orientation or east to west. A buffer of trees or buildings to the north could help reduce heating costs. Lastly, make sure there is adequate room for parking and that vehicles can get in and out with ease.

4. Investigate permit requirements needed to build a greenhouse.

Check on local, state, and federal regulations before you purchase the property or expand your existing business. For instance, local zoning laws sometimes limit or prohibit commercial entities within certain sections of a township. Regulations often focus on frontage, distance from adjacent properties, and the number of parking spaces required. In addition, check with local regulations regarding building in a wetland. A building permit will most likely be required to install a greenhouse structure.

5. Research environmental controls.

This is a huge decision for many growers due to the costs involved vs. ROI. The costs of hi-tech environmental controls should be weighed against what it would cost in labor to open and close louvers and adjust cooling and heating fans. Companies such as Argus Controls and Wadsworth Controls can explain the ins and outs of purchasing and installing environmental controls, including the ROI for your business.

6. Purchase a quality greenhouse covering.

Like the motor in your car, a greenhouse covering can make or break your greenhouse operation–and profits. A quality greenhouse covering should diffuse light for healthy uniform crops, strengthen the greenhouse structure against the elements, and last a long time. In cold areas where supplemental heat is required insulation is a huge consideration that effects ongoing energy costs. Lastly, with a covering that allows 100% transmission of diffuse light there is no worry about plants being shaded by the greenhouse frame, light fixtures, etc. Solexx coverings from Adapt8 have all of these attributes and come with a 10-year warranty.

7. Carefully consider lighting and other greenhouse components.

Here at Adapt8 we’re proponents of LED lighting as the most cost-effective way to add supplemental lighting. LED technology is constantly improving and can match or exceed the quality of light that comes from energy-sucking HPS fixtures. Do your research and talk to other greenhouse growers before you invest in this beneficial technology.

8. Choose the best irrigation method and bench option.

There are many different irrigation options available, including hand-watering (the least efficient), drip, boom, and bottom watering via subirrigation. Drip and subirrigation provide the most efficient means of watering in a greenhouse, according to the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The type of benches you purchase is another important consideration. There are several different options to choose from, including rolling benches, fiberglass, and plastic table top benches that make sliding trays much easier than with metal bench tops. Grow-n-Go racks are also a good option for some growers. This cost effective bench system can be moved in and out of a greenhouse with a forklift so they’re ready to ship.

9. Prepare for the greenhouse to arrive.

Before you start building the greenhouse, stake out the exact location for your greenhouse. Determine the best option for flooring. Concrete is a good option for most growers for a number of reasons, including that it is easy to clean and weeds won’t sprout up. Schedule qualified installers and be prepared for their arrival by securing all of the supplies and equipment that will be needed, including fasteners. If necessary, rent an aerial lift to reach to the top of the structure, particularly if you purchase a greenhouse with top venting.

10. Reconsider the status quo as you plan to build your next greenhouse.

This last step implores you to think outside of the box to look for ways you can grow your greenhouse business by 25 percent. Thinking about the business without constraints is an interesting thought exercise to do. For instance, what would happen if you could get the same crop to market a week earlier – when prices are at a premium? Or, can you grow the same plant but in a bigger pot (and add a higher price tag)? Could you improve efficiencies to add one or two more turns in a crop? That would surely increase sales by up to 25 percent.

Request a Free Sample of Solexx, click here.

For more information on Solexx covering and other products from Adapt8, including greenhouse kits, call 1-877-476-5399 or visit www.adapt8.us.