Greenhouse Update

Things are getting closer to wrap-up with the greenhouse project, as I built the steps on the bank from the yard up to the terrace.  I will probably build a second set of steps at the other end, but we are really getting close to the point where we can say we have a first-class functioning greenhouse.  This was an “in process” image, the steps are now all done and a great addition to the endeavor.  We no longer have to trek diagonally across a steep bank that is frequently slick with dew.

A couple weeks ago I followed Mrs. Barn’s protocol and covered the entire floor with cardboard once she had settled on a configuration for the space.  This step really cuts down on weed encroachment once it is covered with a layer of mulch.

I also placed four black painted drums in the space, one in each corner.  Once I install the spigot kits near the bottom of each drum they will serve two functions.  First is to provide water to the plants since there is no hard plumbed water line, so these will have to be refilled by hose on occasion.  Second, though, is to serve as heat sinks in the winter when the black paint and water inside the drum is heated in the winter time to keep the overnight temps moderated.  At least that’s the plan.  I also may wind up putting more thermal mass in the space, such as sand-filled concrete blocks painted black to absorb solar warming.

With that all done I hauled up a truckload of mulch to cover the carboard on the floor.  It transforms the space visually and functionally as sometimes walking over layers of cardboard is a slippery proposition.

I will shortly add some benches to the covered-but-not-enclosed end of the structure where many plants will be kept as a intermediary space.

Our noodling between now and winter will be to get a handle on temperature controls for both heat and cold.  Even though the enclosed space has a shade cloth over it the temperatures on a sunny day can get pretty extreme inside, much more than our one little 12-inch fan can handle.  I’ve got another fan on order, and hope that two will do the trick.  I am not pleased and cannot recommend the one we bought, but it is here and installed and works, some of the time.

The next update from the greenhouse will focus on Mrs. Barn’s experimentation with self-irrigating planters.

Stay tuned.