What is better, a greenhouse or a hothouse, and what are their differences: advice for gardeners

02.02.2023 10:33
Updated: 13.04.2023 19:48

It may seem that two garden structures similar in practical application – a greenhouse and a hothouse – are one and the same object, but with different names.

It turns out that they have fundamental differences, which are expressed not only in the materials they are made from.

Greenhouse

This is a structure in which the possibility of artificial heating is excluded, and the temperature is maintained by the sun and fertilizers added to the soil. Unlike a greenhouse, it has no windows or doors, and to get inside, it is enough to lift the top or side cover. In addition, a greenhouse is not a capital or stationary structure. It can be moved around the garden throughout the season, depending on the weather and the need to cover a particular crop.

Greenhouse Shelter

Basically, the frame is covered with polyethylene film, spunbond and even glass structures – window frames, for example.

Purpose

A greenhouse is used when it is necessary to bring tomatoes, low-growing cucumbers, vegetable seedlings or flowers to a full ripening cycle, especially during recurrent frosts or cold snaps.

Greenhouse
Photo: © Belnovosti

Greenhouse

This is a larger structure that can be installed on a foundation and, if there is heating, used all year round. The structure must be equipped not only with doors, but also with windows or vents for ventilation. They are covered with a variety of materials, but polycarbonate or glass are considered the most durable and practical. Here you can grow any crops and any sizes.

Greenhouses have only one drawback - excess heat, which occurs if the room is equipped without the possibility of ventilation.

It is possible to move a greenhouse to a new location only if the design features allow it (the exception is a concrete foundation) and only at the end or beginning of the season.

Experienced gardeners do not choose between greenhouses and hotbeds, but equip their plots with both structures.

Igor Zur Author: Igor Zur Internet resource editor


Content
  1. Greenhouse
  2. Greenhouse Shelter
  3. Purpose
  4. Greenhouse