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Insulation and Handy Gadgets

Seasoned Gardener : Episode SGN-313 -- More Projects »
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Measure the area to be insulated and cut insulating foam to those exact measurements. Then, simply slip the foam into place. You can remove it easily once springtime temperatures rise.
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A cold alarm serves as a warning system if temperatures suddenly drop. The alarm can be set to send a signal to the house when temperatures in the greenhouse become dangerously cold for plants.
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This thermometer records the highest and lowest temperatures for a 24-hour period and can be reset each day with the push of a button.
In areas with very cold winters, good insulation will keep heating costs down dramatically. Greenhouse expert Scott Naegeli recommends using construction foam for greenhouses. It provides an R-value of 5, good insulation for the bottom one-third of the greenhouse--the coldest area. Plastic bubble wrap is commonly used, but will not provide enough insulation in a cold zone.

Insulation helps protect against the cold, but in some climates winter temperatures can be severe or drop suddenly. Extra steps should be taken to safeguard plants. A cold alarm in the greenhouse can serve as a warning when temperatures suddenly drop--a remote alarm will sound in your house to give you advanced warning in time to protect your plants.

A few other tools to help to keep plants healthy and thriving:

  • A high-low temperature thermometer records the high and low temperatures reached in the greenhouse in a 24-hour period.
  • A watering attachment that provides a gentle mist is ideal for watering seedling trays because it won't wash away seeds and soil.
  • A siphon mixer attaches to the irrigation system and provides your plants with a steady stream of a water-soluble fertilizer when needed.
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    This watering attachment enables you to provide water to your plants in the form of a gentle mist, especially helpful for seedling trays.
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    Although typically used in commercial greenhouses, automatic pH readers are available for home greenhouse use. Just fill the chamber with soil and distilled water and you'll have an accurate soil pH reading in minutes.
    Resources
    Greenhouses and supplies - J. R. Johnson Supply
    J. R. Johnson Supply
    2582 Long Lake Rd.
    Roseville, MN 55113
    Phone: 651-636-1330
    Email: sales@jrjohnson.com
    URL: www.GrowerKits.com
    Guests
    R. Scott Naegeli
    Landscaper
    2582 Long Lake Rd.
    St. Paul, MN 55113
    Phone: 651-636-1330
    Also in this Episode
    Seasoned Gardener : Episode SGN-313
    •Choosing a Greenhouse
    •Greenhouse Flooring, Heating and Staging
    •Water and Lighting in a Greenhouse
    •Insulation and Handy Gadgets
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