Gothic Arch Greenhouses Review

Gothic Arch Greenhouses Review -Thomas Luzzi

Chatham New York

14' x 20' trip wall

Construction began by clearing trees around the area. Early May the ground had thawed enough to dig holes for the foundation. After the cement had dried and the stone in place, Hardi plank (recycled from barn) side walls were attached. All the wooden parts of the frame were sanded and brushed with 2 to 3 coats of tung oil. June 4, we invited two friends over to help hoist the arches into place. Both sides were completed in two hours. The next week we installed the poly panels and the ridge. We installed gutters on both sides of the greenhouse to collect water run off. Two buckets catch that water. A gentle rain quickly fills two 75 gallon rain buckets, which in turn is used to supply all the water needs of the greenhouse. Six fish and a few snails keep the water buckets clear and clean. We finished the inside of the knee walls with about 2000 pounds of black slate (recycled from a roof) and poured 4 inches of pea gravel on the floor to absorb heat during the day and keep the greenhouse warm during the evening. Finally, 30” tables were constructed on each side of the greenhouse for potting and growing while a 4’ x 8’x 20”raised bed was built in the middle. Radishes, basil and beets are growing in that bed now despite the cool temperatures outside. We plan to add more vegetables soon.

The wiring for fans went quickly and they work great. The misting system is still in the works. All in all, it’s been a fun experience and very gratifying. We receive many questions from friends and lots of admiration for our greenhouse.

Tom and Christine