There’s something to be said about someone who takes the initiative to construct their own happily flourishing ecosystem. The patience, skill, and sheer aptitude are astounding. However, even with all the preparation in the world, the one thing that’s unavoidable is cost.
No matter your level of expertise, if you’re incapable of constructing a lean-to greenhouse on a budget you could be making your job a bit too complicated. As it is, lean-tos aren’t terribly difficult to construct –especially a stand-alone version. However, you’ll need the proper supplies for your house, attached or otherwise, and that can get a bit costly if you’re not cautious.
Probably the most economical lean-to greenhouse is a lean-to mini greenhouse. These houses are small enough to fit in cramped living spaces or those with limited room for plant life –such as a flat or a Brownstone. If you’re able to construct a mailbox, you should be able to put together a pretty decent mini lean-to.
Keep in mind your surroundings. If you’re living in an area that is prone to heavy rainy seasons or a great deal of smog, you’ll want to get a sturdy wood and a glass covering. Though glass doesn’t come cheap, if you get the correct size of fiberglass you can save yourself a bit of cash. Also, wood, being as versatile as it is, usually comes pretty inexpensive. Go to any lumber yard and you’ll find the perfect wood to erect your greenhouse.
Speaking of lumber, wooden lean-to greenhouses are one of the most cost effective houses you can build. These greenhouses can either be attachments or stand-alone, but because wood is universal, your budget will be within reason. You will need to spring for hammer and some nails–if you don’t already have them, that is– and a glass or polyethylene covering.
If you’re in an area that boasts great weather, polyethylene is cheap and it’s effective. Whether a wooden lean-to or a mini lean-to, you will need to be sure you keep a good eye on your wood, possibly getting an eco-friendly finisher to allow your wood to withstand harsh weather.
The most expensive option is the aluminum greenhouse. Although a pretty common material aluminum does come a bit pricey because of its metal composition. Also aluminum isn’t as versatile a construction medium as wood and may a bit more taxing to work with. These greenhouses are meant to be attachments to garages or houses, so side-stepping costs that way is out of the question.
However, a rather easy solution is aluminum siding. It’s an inexpensive alternative to a traditional aluminum frame and because they’re commonly used for housing, sourcing the material will be simple and cost-effective. When building a lean-to greenhouse, remember to keep it simple. You’re not out to impress anyone; you’re trying to create a thriving environment for your plants. Whenever possible, consider generic and common options. This will cut your costs down and still give you the quality lean-to you desire.
Dave Pierson is a master gardener and professional nurseryman who has been teaching others how to build hobby greenhouses for over 15 years. To learn more about how to build your own lean-to-greenhouse, please visit http://www.gardengreenhouseinfo.com. Our FREE ‘Build Your Own Greenhouse’ mini-course is a tremendous resource for anyone serious about building their own personal greenhouse.