How to Start an Urban Greenhouse
- 1). Select a sunny location. Greenhouses need sunshine. Choose a location with southern exposure. Rooftops, empty or underdeveloped lots, balconies and patios are all potential greenhouse locations.
- 2). Secure all required permits and permissions. Contact your city planning department to determine if the zoning and building codes allow greenhouses at your selected location. If necessary, get approval from your landlord or condo/co-op board before you start construction.
- 3). Get a price quote and rendering from an experienced architect/contractor. Obtain the dimensions of a greenhouse that could be built on your selected location. Use the sketch and dimensions to determine how many plants you can place in the greenhouse.
- 4). Supervise the construction of the greenhouse.
- 5). Select plants that will thrive in the local climate and in the soil available. Factor in space constraints. Choose herbs, spices, food and flowers that are pleasing to you and other people who will assist with the greenhouse maintenance.
- 6). Create a maintenance plan for the greenhouse. Invite neighbors, friends and family members to participate with upkeep.
- 7). Stock the greenhouse. Arrange your selected plants.
- 8). Invite the community to the greenhouse grand opening. Demonstrate how to care for the plants using gardening tools.
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