Sites should be evaluated for climate, topography, water source and quality, locality, and evaluations should consider whether the greenhouse will be used for retail or wholesale.
Selecting a Greenhouse Location
In addition to the information from the site survey (below), the region of the site should be considered as well. One of the great advantages of a greenhouse is that it makes it possible to cultivate crops anywhere, even in places they would not naturally grow. Greenhouse crop cultivation is generally more expensive than growing crops outdoors but is more energy-efficient and less costly than growing crops in indoor grow rooms. Regional climate and topography trends will give greenhouse owners an idea of the main challenges they may face in operating the greenhouse, and considerations to be made in designing and equipping the greenhouse.
Greenhouse Location | Advantages | Disadvantages |
Pacific Coast (OR, N. CA) | Temperature moderated year-round by cooling winds | High land cost |
Southwest (AZ, NM) | High light exposure | Water scarcity and low quality |
Mountains (Rockies, Appalachia) | High light exposure | High heating costs |
South (AL, GA, FL) | Low heating costs | High humidity |
North (MN, OH, E. Coast) | Cooler summers | High heating cost |
Greenhouse Site Survey
Climate
Patterns of temperature, humidity, wind, rain, cloud cover, and snow
Determined by latitude, altitude, and terrain
Influences heating and cooling costs, lighting costs, and type of structure needed
Topography
The terrain around the greenhouse site will influence the impact of climate
Areas with air drainage where cold air settles have increased heating costs
Some terrains will be less costly to prepare for building
Site terrain should ensure water drains away from the greenhouse structure
Room for expansion at the greenhouse site may be desired
1-2% southern slope is ideal
Windbreaks to the north (conifer trees planted in a double row at least 50 feet upwind from greenhouse, or storm fencing for temporary wind protection)
Water
Enough water is needed to supply irrigation and evaporative cooling systems
0.3 gallons per square foot of plants per day at least
Water may come from sources such as ground well, municipal water, ponds, recycling systems
Water quality should be tested and evaluated to determine the need for filtration and treatment
Locality
Location proximity to infrastructure and roads
Local zoning, regulations, and taxes
Waste disposal
Labor supply