We are in the midst of purchasing property in the mountains. My question is in regards to gardening at high elevation. We will be at about 8500 feet. Do you all have a greenhouse? Is there a certain brand you’d recommend? Any tips or tricks for growing in a shortened season? Please tell me all you know. I am at a loss on how to get myself prepared for next spring.
Hey Linda. We have a greenhouse. Before I had this one built I spent a lot of time researching kits and prebuilt ones. The first thing you need to decide on is how much you are willing to spend. That will dictate a lot. Then size and location. For best solar exposure set it toward the South where you are. Make it as large as you can. You will never regret it!
Get or build something that will withstand the wind and snow. We had ours built from someone locally. We put in good sturdy windows, roofing and door. Also had it spray foam insulated...which helps a lot! Roofing panels come in varying thickness, but you are best to go with heavy duty panels for longevity and strength. We connected water to ours and of course electric. This year I’ve added grow lights. Talk about a selection and confusing information!! My gosh I didn’t know if what I bought would be good or not until I tried them out. They work great! I have them controlled remotely and on set up schedules for each light.
Do have a potting station put in as well as lots of space and shelving for storing pots, fertilizer, bug killer, equipment, gloves etc.
For plants that need deep roots, my hubby just bought me a 7’ elevated planter that I am crazy about. Just put Fall potatoes in it. I have a large metal cattle trough which I currently have peas growing in. On one side of the greenhouse I had a table built.
DD gave you a great reference for growing year round in greenhouses and Rellgar a great one for your elevation!
Will let you know how my Fall garden grows and produces! Am going to try a winter garden this year too. I am a bit anxious about it though so I will be reading more on how to do it.
The picture is of the potting station I had cut into the sink cabinet...which is actually a furniture piece I bought and had the guys convert.