Building A Permanent Greenhouse for Year-Round Gardening

We decided to make the leap from a portable greenhouse to building a permanent greenhouse for year-round gardening. We began by choosing which greenhouse and what size we wanted. Then we cleared the area and built our foundation and floor. Finally, we are ready to build the permanent greenhouse and begin using it to garden year-round. We are building and using the Palram HG5508 Hybrid Hobby Greenhouse. You can read more about why we chose this greenhouse in our article on how to choose a greenhouse.

Organizing the Greenhouse Parts

When the greenhouse arrived and we opened it up I have to admit I was a bit overwhelmed by all of the parts. We began by sorting all of the parts into like stacks. The parts were easy to identify because they either had the part number stamped into the metal or were labeled with a sticker.

Reading the Greenhouse Building Directions

Read all of the directions carefully before you begin. Then slowly go back and read the directions for each step. We found it helpful to always read ahead a bit too. Some things worked better by doing them out of order. We mention which ones specifically in the video.

Building the Permanent Greenhouse

We went into the day knowing that it would be a long day. We ate breakfast early and as soon as it warmed up enough to work we got started. Again, we read the directions several steps ahead and then one by one. We did use a drill but many of the steps can be completed without one if you don't mind the extra work and time.

It took us about four hours to set the greenhouse up. It would have taken less if it wasn't so windy and we weren't doing the YouTube video.

Avoid Building on a Windy Day

If we had been able to I would have chosen a less windy day to build the greenhouse. Fighting the wind was frustrating when it came to inserting the panels. We became concerned that we were going to damage the panels so we ended up inserting those after building the support rail. I do think even if it was not windy it would make sense to have that section built and ready to go prior to sliding the panels into place.

A Greenhouse for Year-Round Gardening

Building A Permanent Greenhouse for Year-Round Gardening was important for us as we strive to get closer to a more self-sufficient urban homestead. Now as the seasons change we'll be able to protect our plants better. We will also be able to grow plants that may not do as well in our area when planted in the ground. I'm really looking forward to growing strawberries in the greenhouse and not having to fight the birds!