The Construction of MOTHER'S Bioshelter Greenhouse

(Page 4 of 4)

May/June 1985
By the Mother Earth News editors 
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Our greenhouse was designed first and foremost to grow plants as effectively as possible. To that end, some compromises had to be made in its ultimate energy efficiency. Overhead and east- and west-wall glazing helps plants grow but is detrimental to overall solar heating in the crucial winter months. Furthermore, all the interior surfaces of the greenhouse are painted white to reflect light (not absorb it) and thereby reduce phototropism. We've accepted the fact that when it gets really cold out and a batch of compost doesn't happen to be at its peak (the bioheat does work in cycles that may not correspond to the weather), backup heat is needed. In fact, during a record-breaking bitter spell in January, when the mercury dropped to -21°, many plants died despite the kerosene heater we kept running day and night. Soil temperatures stayed at acceptable levels, but the air just plain got too cold.

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For the most part, though, the greenhouse has made it possible for us to maintain substantial plant production throughout the winter in a 4,500-degree-day climate. And the head start it will give us on the outdoor growing season is enough to justify its construction.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Though the drawings with this article cover most of the aspects of building the greenhouse, you might want to get full-size construction blueprints (which include some added detail) before beginning work. You can order the bioshelter greenhouse plans from Mother's Plans, P.O. Box A, East Flat Rock, NC 28734, for $10.00, plus $1.00 postage and handling. If you'd like to pick up a set of plans for our low-cost earth-sheltered house at the same time, send a total of $20.00 plus the $1.00 shipping and handling. Or, if you've already bought our low-cost earth shelter plans, you can add the greenhouse plans to your collection for $5.00 plus $1.00 shipping and handling by sending along some proof of purchase with your order.

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