We are not so lucky to have wild chickens everywhere on the mainland. We will need to have a chicken coop to contain and protect the chickens. To build a chicken coop, you need to consider the following factors.
Space - The size of the coop will depend on the number of chickens you have and the space you have available in your yard. Make sure the coop has enough space for the chickens to move around comfortably.
Weather-proof - The coop should protect the chickens from harsh weather conditions, like rain and snow. The walls, roof, and floors should be insulated and sealed to prevent drafts.
Predator-proof - The coop should have strong and sturdy walls, and an enclosed area where the chickens can roost at night. This will protect them from predators like raccoons, foxes, and coyotes.
Ventilation - Chickens produce a lot of moisture, so it's important to have proper ventilation in the coop. You can install windows and vents to allow fresh air to flow through the coop.
Easy to clean - The coop should be easy to clean to maintain the health of the chickens. Look for designs with removable trays or floors that can be easily cleaned.
Accessible nesting boxes - The coop should have easily accessible nesting boxes for the chickens to lay their eggs in.
Budget - The cost of a chicken coop can vary depending on the size, material, and features. Determine your budget before making a purchase.
Check out the chicken coop kit at MyGreenhouseStore.com.
]]>Year-round growing: Grow lights enable indoor plants to grow and bloom throughout the year, irrespective of the natural sunlight.
Customizable spectrum: Different plants require different colors or wavelengths of light to grow. Some grow lights are customizable so that you can adjust their light spectrum depending on the type of plant you are growing.
Space-saving: Grow lights are generally compact and can fit in small spaces, allowing you to grow plants indoors without taking up too much space.
Increased yield and faster growth: Grow lights can stimulate plant growth, accelerating the rate of photosynthesis and increasing crop yield.
Pest and disease control: Using grow lights indoors minimizes exposure to pests and diseases that thrive outdoors and can harm your plants.
Energy-efficiency: LED grow lights are energy-efficient and consume less energy than other lighting technologies.
Extended lifespan of plants: With grow lights, you can mimic natural growing conditions, which will help plants remain healthy, extending their lifespan.
Cost-effective: Grow lights may seem like a considerable investment initially, but in the long run, they will save you money to buy new plants or replace outdoor garden equipment.
Check out the following grow lights carried by MyGreenhouseStore.com.
]]>Here are some creative uses for a greenhouse:
Year-Round Gardening: Use the greenhouse to grow a wide variety of plants and vegetables regardless of the season. You can experiment with exotic or delicate plants that may not thrive in your local climate.
Vertical Gardening: Set up vertical planters or trellises inside the greenhouse to maximize space and grow climbing plants such as cucumbers, beans, or vine tomatoes.
Aquaponics System: Combine aquaculture (raising fish) with hydroponics (cultivating plants in water) in your greenhouse. The fish waste provides nutrients for the plants, and the plants help filter and clean the water for the fish.
Seed Starting: Start your garden plants from seeds in a controlled environment. This allows you to extend the growing season, get a head start on the planting, and save money on buying seedlings.
Herb and Medicinal Plant Garden: Create a dedicated space for growing herbs and medicinal plants. This allows you to have fresh herbs year-round and experiment with various herbal remedies.
Butterfly or Pollinator Garden: Design your greenhouse to attract and support butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Plant nectar-rich flowers and provide habitats for these important creatures.
Miniature Ecosystem: Create a self-sustaining micro-ecosystem within your greenhouse by incorporating a variety of plants, small animals like frogs or lizards, and even a small pond. This can be both visually appealing and educational.
Orchid or Tropical Plant Collection: Orchids and tropical plants thrive in warm, humid conditions. Use your greenhouse to cultivate a stunning collection of exotic flowers or tropical foliage.
Artist's Studio: Convert a section of the greenhouse into an artist's studio. The abundance of natural light, the connection with nature, and the tranquil environment can provide an inspiring setting for various artistic pursuits.
Yoga or Meditation Space: Transform your greenhouse into a serene sanctuary for relaxation, yoga, or meditation. Surround yourself with greenery, enjoy the fresh air, and create a peaceful atmosphere for rejuvenation.
Remember to consider the specific environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and light requirements for each use to ensure the success of your greenhouse projects.
]]>Acrylic (sometimes called Plexiglass) is a type of thermoplastic material that is commonly used as a glazing material for greenhouses. It is lightweight, durable, and has excellent optical clarity.
Q: What are the advantages of using acrylic as a greenhouse glazing material?
A: Acrylic has several advantages as a greenhouse glazing material. Firstly, it is much more durable than glass and is able to withstand impacts and extreme weather conditions without cracking or shattering. Secondly, it is much lighter than glass, making it easier to install and reducing the load on the greenhouse frame. Thirdly, acrylic has excellent light transmission properties, allowing plenty of sunlight to pass through and promoting plant growth. Finally, acrylic has good insulation properties, which can help to keep the greenhouse warm and reduce heating costs.
Q: What are the different types of acrylic that are available for greenhouse glazing?
A: There are several different types of acrylic that are suitable for greenhouse glazing, including extruded acrylic and cast acrylic. Extruded acrylic is the most common type of acrylic and is available in a wide range of thicknesses and sizes. Cast acrylic is more expensive than extruded acrylic but has better optical clarity and is more resistant to scratching.
Q: How does acrylic compare to other greenhouse glazing materials, such as glass and polycarbonate?
A: Acrylic has several advantages over glass, including being much more durable, lighter, and more insulating. It also has better optical clarity and is less expensive than some types of glass. However, glass is more scratch-resistant than acrylic and has better UV resistance. Polycarbonate is also a popular greenhouse glazing material, especially for larger structures. Polycarbonate is lighter and much more impact-resistant than glass, but it is less optically clear than acrylic and can scratch more easily. Multi-wall polycarbonate (twin wall, triple wall, all the way up to five wall) is a more recent innovation and is known for its excellent insulating properties.
Q: How do I clean and maintain acrylic greenhouse glazing?
A: Acrylic is relatively easy to clean and maintain. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can scratch the surface of the acrylic. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the surface of the acrylic. If the acrylic becomes scratched, it can be polished using a specialized acrylic polish. It is also important to remove any snow or ice that accumulates on the acrylic, as this can cause damage or reduce light transmission.
Polycarbonate, also sometimes known as Lexan, is a particular group of thermoplastic polymers that has many superior features in comparison with glass as well as with other polymers such as acrylic (Plexiglass). For example it is half the weight and 250 times stronger than typical glass, making it impact resistant and virtually unbreakable.
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of polycarbonate.
Key Advantages:
Disadvantages:
-- Note that these are general statements about polycarbonate and do not apply specifically to any particular products. Contact us for specific ratings if fire rating or other specifics are important considerations for your application.
]]>If you are new to growing plants in a greenhouse, you may have questions about how to choose a greenhouse that suits your needs. While the size and your budget seems to be the most obvious factors, there are other points to consider as well.
Following these steps will help you choose the ideal greenhouse for your needs. You are also welcome to call us at 888-648-5333 to pick our brains, we'd love to hear from you!
]]>Choose the perfect location: Before erecting your hobby greenhouse, choose a suitable location that is level, has well-drained soil, and receives ample sunlight. Avoid positioning it under trees or other structures that may fall on the greenhouse during severe weather conditions.
Select the correct anchor types: Anchor styles vary with the greenhouse structure and foundation type, size, local weather conditions, and soil type. Common options include earth anchors, ground stakes, concrete anchors, and anchor plates.
Install anchors: While some greenhouse manufacturers provide anchoring kits, others do not. Therefore, ensure you have the appropriate accessories to anchor your greenhouse. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or guidance from a professional installer for installation.
Secure the greenhouse: After anchoring your greenhouse, inspect it to ensure that it is stable. Follow any instructions regarding securing windows, doors, and other components to ensure that they remain in place during harsh weather conditions. Consider 'hurricane straps' or other tie down methods if conditions merit.
Installing a greenhouse on a concrete slab is the most common choice. Below are the basic steps needed and some reminders:
At the time of writing this article, I must say that Canopia by Palram has made the best value Polycarbonate Hobby Greenhouse Kits in the US market. They are definitely not in the Mercedes-Benz class, but fits well in the Volkswagen category that most people love and can afford. They offer 19 greenhouse series of various styles in their product collection. Each series has several choices of sizes and colors to suit your taste and needs. If you are not sure what you want, it can be a confusing and time consuming endeavor to sort out this greenhouse maze to find the perfect one for you. Diffusing panels or clear panels? Metal or plastic frame? 4mm or 6mm Polycarbonate? 6 or 8 foot headroom? The list goes on and on and it can be bit of a headache.
I've tried my best, below, to sort the Canopia Greenhouse Kits so that you can see their features at a glance and quickly locate the ones that you prefer. The focus of this summary and comparison is on the thickness of the Polycarbonate glazing each Palram - Canopia Greenhouse offers.
The table below is highlighted in different colors and this is what each color represents. I also added a number after the model name to denote the width of the greenhouse. For example, "Snap & Grow Six" means a 6ft wide Snap & Grow Greenhouse; and "Bella Eight" means the 8ft wide Bella Greenhouse.
Greenhouse Kit |
Snap & Grow Six |
Snap & Grow Eight |
Lean-To Four |
Hybrid Six |
Balance Eight |
Grand Gardener Eight - Clear |
Prestige Eight - Clear |
Oasis |
Chalet Ten |
Americana Twelve |
Mythos Six |
Essence Eight |
EcoGrow Six |
Hobby Gardener Eight |
Grand Gardener Eight - Twin Wall |
Prestige Eight - Twin Wall |
Bella Eight |
Glory Six |
Glory Eight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Peak Height |
6ft 7in | 8ft 5in | 7ft | 6ft 6in | 7ft 4in | 7ft 6in | 7ft 6in | 8ft 6in (8x7 ft) 9ft 1in (12x10 ft) |
8ft 7in | 8ft 4in | 6ft 6in | 7ft 4in | 6ft | 6ft 6in | 7ft 6in | 7ft 6in | 6ft 10in | 8ft 6in | 8ft 6in |
Sidewall Height |
4ft 5in | 5ft 3in | 4ft | 4ft | 5ft 1in | 5ft 1in | 6ft 4in | 5ft 4in | 4ft 1in | 4ft | 4ft | 4ft | 4ft 1in | 5ft 1in | 5ft 1in | n/a | 6ft 3in | 6ft 3in | |
Door Dimensions |
23.6 x 78.7 in | 45.7 x 78.7 in | 22.2 x 64.2 in | 45.1 x 75.8 in | 47.5 x 76.4 in | 47.5 x 76.4 in | 52 x 72 ft | 45.8 x 81.5 in | 45.8 x 87.2 in | 22.2 x 64.2 in | 45.1 x 75.8 in | 23 x 65 in | 46.8 x 65 in | 47.5 x 76.4 in | 47.5 x 76.4 in | 45.8 x 67.8 in | 31.7 x 75.1 in | 31.7 x 75.1 in | |
Snow Load |
15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 11 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 11 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 11 lb/sq ft | 15 lb/sq ft | 20 lb/sq ft | 20 lb/sq ft |
Wind Load |
55 MPH | 50 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 56 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 56 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 55 MPH | 60 MPH |
Size Available |
6x8 ft (53 sq ft) 6x12 ft (78 sq ft) 6x16 ft (103 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (68 sq ft) 8x12 ft (100 sq ft) 8x16 ft (132 sq ft) 8x20 ft (165 sq ft) 8x24 ft (192 sq ft) 8x28 ft (224 sq ft) 8x32 ft (256 sq ft) |
4x8 ft (32 sq ft) | 6x4 ft (25 sq ft) 6x6 ft (37 sq ft) 6x8 ft (49 sq ft) 6x10 ft (61 sq ft) 6x14 ft (86 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (64 sq ft) 8x12 ft (96 sq ft) 8x16 ft (128 sq ft) 8x20 ft (160 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (76 sq ft) 8x12 ft (112 sq ft) 8x16 ft (148 sq ft) 8x20 ft (184 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (76 sq ft) 8x12 ft (112 sq ft) 8x16 ft (148 sq ft) 8x20 ft (184 sq ft) |
8x7 ft (57 sq ft) 12x10 ft (124 sq ft) |
10x12 ft (112 sq ft) | 12x12 ft (144 sq ft) | 6x4 ft (25 sq ft) 6x6 ft (37 sq ft) 6x8 ft (49 sq ft) 6x10 ft (61 sq ft) 6x14 ft (86 sq ft) |
8x12 ft (95 sq ft) | 6x6 ft (44 sq ft) 6x8 ft (58 sq ft) 6x10 ft (72 sq ft) 6x12 ft (85 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (64 sq ft) 8x12 ft (96 sq ft) 8x16 ft (128 sq ft) 8x20 ft (160 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (76 sq ft) 8x12 ft (112 sq ft) 8x16 ft (148 sq ft) 8x20 ft (184 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (76 sq ft) 8x12 ft (112 sq ft) 8x16 ft (148 sq ft) 8x20 ft (184 sq ft) |
8x8 ft (64 sq ft) 8x16 ft (128 sq ft) 8x20 ft (160 sq ft) |
6x8 ft (51 sq ft) | 8x8 ft (64 sq ft) 8x12 ft (96 sq ft) 8x16 ft (127 sq ft) 8x20 ft (159 sq ft) |
Total Weight |
118.8 lbs (6x8 ft) 162.8 lbs (6x12 ft) 206.8 lbs (6x16 ft) |
148 lbs (8x8 ft) 197 lbs (8x12 ft) 246 lbs (8x16 ft) 295 lbs (8x20 ft) 328 lbs (8x24 ft) 381 lbs (8x28 ft) 428 lbs (8x32 ft) |
61 lbs | 69.5 lbs (6x4 ft) 80 lbs (6x6 ft) 92 lbs (6x8 ft) 99 lbs (6x10 ft) 137.3 lbs (6x14 ft) |
135 lbs (8x8 ft) 175 lbs (8x12 ft) 215 lbs (8x16 ft) 255 lbs (8x20 ft) |
225 lbs (8x8 ft) 297 lbs (8x12 ft) 364 lbs (8x16 ft) 431 lbs (8x20 ft) |
304 lbs (8x8 ft) 400 lbs (8x12 ft) 485 lbs (8x16 ft) 558 lbs (8x20 ft) |
111 lbs (8x7 ft) 207 lbs (12x10 ft) |
218.5 lbs | 299 lbs | 60lb (6x4 ft) 75 lbs (6x6 ft) 90 lbs (6x8 ft) 108 lbs (6x10 ft ) 141 lbs (6x14 ft) |
159.5 lbs | 124 lbs (6x6 ft) 144 lbs (6x8 ft) 170 lbs (6x10 ft ) 190 lbs (6x12 ft) |
196 lbs (8x8 ft) 252 lbs (8x12 ft) 308 lbs (8x16 ft) 364 lbs (8x20 ft) |
225 lbs (8x8 ft) 297 lbs (8x12 ft) 364 lbs (8x16 ft) 431 lbs (8x20 ft) |
304 lbs (8x8 ft) 400 lbs (8x12 ft) 485 lbs (8x16 ft) 558 lbs (8x20 ft) |
153 lbs (8x8 ft) 202 lbs (8x12 ft) 251 lbs (8x16 ft) 300 lbs (8x20 ft) |
168 lbs | 229 lbs (8x8 ft) 284 lbs (8x12 ft) 339 lbs (8x16 ft) 394 lbs (8x20 ft) |
Roof Vent |
1 roof vent (6x8 ft) 2 roof vents (6x12 ft) 3 roof vents (6x16 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) 5 roof vents (8x24 ft) 6 roof vents (8x28 ft) 7 roof vents (8x32 ft) |
1 roof vent | 1 roof vent (6x4 ft) 1 (6x6 ft) 1 (6x8 ft) 1 (6x10 ft) 2 roof vents (6x14 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
n/a | 2 roof vents | 2 roof vents | 1 roof vent (6x4 ft) 1 roof vent (6x6 ft) 1 roof vent (6x8 ft) 1 roof vent (6x10 ft) 2 roof vents (6x14 ft) |
2 roof vents | 1 roof vent | 1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 roof vent (8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
1 roof vent | 1 roof vent(8x8 ft) 2 roof vents (8x12 ft) 3 roof vents (8x16 ft) 4 roof vents (8x20 ft) |
Roof Panel Material |
0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 10mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 10mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate |
Roof Color |
Clear | Clear | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent |
Sidewall Material |
0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 0.8mm Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 4mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 6mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 10mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 10mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate |
Sidewall Color |
Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent | Translucent |
Light Transmission |
90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 90% | 82% | 82% | 80% | 80% | 80% | 80% | 79% | 79% |
Frame Material |
Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | 100% UV-protected resin | 100% UV-protected resin | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | 100% UV-protected resin | 100% UV-protected resin | 100% UV-protected resin | 100% UV-protected resin | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Frame Color Available |
Silver | Silver | Silver | 6x4 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x6 ft (Silver, Forest Green) 6x8 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x10 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x14 ft (Silver) |
Forest Green | Forest Green | Forest Green | Dark Gray | Charcoal Gray | Silver | 6x4 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x6 ft (Silver, Forest Green) 6x8 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x10 ft (Silver, Forest Green, Dark Gray) 6x14 ft (Silver) |
Silver | Forest Green | Forest Green | Forest Green | Forest Green | Silver | Charcoal Gray | Charcoal Gray |
What's Included |
Adjustable roof vent Rain gutters Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent Rain gutters Foundation-mounting brackets |
Adjustable roof vent Rain gutters Lockable door with magnetic catch Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent Rain gutters Lockable door with magnetic catch Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent Integrated rain gutters Lockable door handle Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent |
8x8 ft: 8x12 ft: 8x16 ft: 8x20 ft: |
Side louvre window Rain gutters Lockable door Galvanized steel base |
Anchoring kit Threshold ramp Two adjustable roof vents Lockable door with magnetic catch Rain gutters Galvanized steel base |
Anchoring kit Threshold ramp Two adjustable roof vents Lockable wide double doors Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent Rain gutters Lockable door with magnetic catch Galvanized steel base |
Two adjustable roof vents Rain gutters Lockable door Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent | Adjustable roof vent | Adjustable roof vent |
8x8 ft: 8x12 ft: 8x16 ft: 8x20 ft: |
Adjustable roof vent Lockable door handle Galvanized steel base |
Adjustable roof vent with automatic vent opener Side louver window, Plant hangers Rain gutters Lockable door with mechanical catch Threshold ramp Galvanized steel base Ground anchoring system |
Adjustable roof vent with automatic vent opener Side louver window Plant hangers Rain gutters Lockable door with mechanical catch Threshold ramp Galvanized steel base Ground anchoring system |
Base Kit |
An optional base kit is available | An optional base kit is available | |||||||||||||||||
Warranty |
5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 7 Year Limited Warranty | 5 Year Limited Warranty | 10 Year Limited Warranty | 10 Year Limited Warranty |
Country of Origin |
Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal | Isreal |
Mont Greenhouses are distributed by Riverstone Industries Corporation, (RSI) headquartered in Dover, New Jersey. Riverstone has many years of experience in bringing quality greenhouses and related environmentally friendly gardening products into the marketplace from all over the world. They have designed the most comprehensive line of greenhouses to meet the needs of beginning gardeners and professional growers alike, all without breaking the bank. Besides the hobby and professional greenhouses, they are among the few that design Educational Greenhouses that are widely used in residential, school, community garden, and institutional settings. Over the years, they've shifted their focus more and more to American made products.
RSI believes in efficiency and simplicity. Their greenhouses are classic, space smart, with wide entrances, expandable, more insulated than most other greenhouses, and made of a heavier aluminum frame and 8mm commercial grade twin wall polycarbonate. There are four models of MONT Greenhouses:
If you are considering a MONT Greenhouse but you are not sure what all it comes with and which one would benefit you the most, the following comparison chart give you the scoop at a glance.
MONT Standard | MONT Premium | MONT Mojave | MONT Growers Edition | |
Peak Height | 7'6" | 7'6" | 7'6" | 7'6" |
Sidewall Height | 4'10" | 4'10" | 4'10" | 4'10" |
Frame Material | Extruded US grade aluminum, electrostatically painted Black | Extruded US grade aluminum, electrostatically painted Black | Extruded US grade aluminum, electrostatically painted Black | Extruded US grade aluminum, electrostatically painted Black |
Roof Panel Material | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate |
Sidewall Panel Material | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate | 8mm Twin Wall Polycarbonate |
Double Hinged Lockable French Door 6x4 ft | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Built-in Rain Gutter | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Automatic Roof Vents 2x2 ft | ||||
8x8 ft greenhouse | 1 | 1 | n/a | 1 |
8x12 ft greenhouse | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
8x16 ft greenhouse | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
8x 20 ft greenhouse | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
8x24 ft greenhouse | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Extendable With 4' Extension Kit | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Folding Workbench on one long sidewall | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
Potting Sink | ✔ | ✔ | ||
Programmable Overhead Watering System | ✔ | ✔ | ||
Interior Shade Cloth System (Rated at 63%) | ✔ | |||
Tinted Roof Panels | ✔ | |||
Solar Powered Ventilation System With Thermostat | ✔ | |||
Vegibee Mechanical Pollinator System | ✔ | |||
Light Diffusing & Privacy Wall and Roof Panels | ✔ | |||
Electric Ventilation System with Thermostat | ✔ | |||
Commercial Heating System (17,000 BTU) | ✔ | |||
Drip Irrigation System with Programmable Timer | ✔ | |||
Size Available | 8x8 ft = 64 sq ft 8x12 ft = 96 sq ft 8x16 ft = 128 sq ft 8x20 ft - 160 sq ft 8x24 ft = 192 sq ft |
8x8 ft = 64 sq ft 8x12 ft = 96 sq ft 8x16 ft = 128 sq ft 8x20 ft = 160 sq ft 8x24 ft = 192 sq ft |
8x12 ft = 96 sq ft 8x16 ft = 128 sq ft 8x20 ft = 160 sq ft 8x24 ft = 192 sq ft |
8x8 ft = 64 sq ft 8x12 ft = 96 sq ft 8x16 ft = 128 sq ft 8x20 ft = 160 sq ft 8x24 ft = 192 sq ft |
Warranty | 10 Year Limited Warranty | 10 Year Limited Warranty | 10 Year Limited Warranty | 15 Year Limited Warranty |
Country of Origin | USA | USA | USA | USA |
Riverstone MONT Greenhouse Pros
Riverstone MONT Greenhouse Cons
Want Organic? Live in the City?
Your Answer Could be Indoor Hydroponics!
Health equals wealth, the saying goes. You may prefer organically grown foods, and yet they can be expensive and not always available. Growing herbs, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables within the limited indoor space at home is doable using a wide range of products available to fit your space and budget.
Some benefits of having your own indoor grow system:
1. Fresh food from your indoor system tastes wonderful. You'll love the freshness and flavor an extra sprig of fresh mint, some spicy Thai Basil, or a luscious red heirloom tomato will bring to your meal.
2. Veggies from your indoor system can be healthier and even reduce your shopping costs a bit. You can grow what you like, without any pesticides, wax, ripening gases, or chemicals. And without the premium price for grocery store organics.
3. You can try interesting varieties you may not find in the store. If you rotate vegetables over time, you can eat the veggies you choose any time of year.
Basic hydroponics involves soilless farming, which you can do from the comfort of your house or apartment even with no yard. No need to till, plant, or fumigate, because you grow vegetables independent of soil quality, year-round, while saving up to 95% of the water used in traditional agriculture.
Here are some tips to help you create an indoor hydroponic vegetable garden:
1. Seed Selection
Pick disease-resistant varieties that are open-pollinated rather than genetically modified. Choose seeds that have manageable plant size and don't mind growing in moisture-rich conditions.
2. Nutrient Solution and Grow Medium
You will use a nutrient solution mixed with water to provide nutrients to the plants. You can make this solution at home depending on the type of nutrition each plant needs, or you can simply order a safe-to-use nutrient solution online from a reliable platform.
Some herbs with shallow roots will grow in nutrient-rich solutions. Others require a medium like coconut kernel or foam to maintain some structure for the plant. There are a variety of soilless media, such as vermiculite, sand, coco or perlite, but coco is one of the more popular media because of its high water-holding capacity.
4. Are Veggies Easy With Basic Hydroponics?
Some herbs that grow well in a hydroponic system include oregano, basil, sage, rosemary, tarragon, peppermint, lemon balm, curry leaves, lemongrass, peppers, cilantro, and more.
Some vegetables that are suitable for hydroponic plant systems are lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, celery, cauliflower, peas, cabbage, radishes, carrots, gourd balls, fenugreek, okra, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, spinach, and many others. Most can be grown all year round.
5. Plants Need Sunlight!
Although your plants may not need soil in hydropincis setup because their nutrient needs are met by media and nutrient-infused water, they still need 6 hours or more of sunlight!
Indoor lighting in a specific spectrum can work, and some products have built in full-spectrum lights, timers, and so on.
6. Adjust Water pH
Most herbal varieties grow well at pH levels lower than tap water. Tap water is also chlorinated, fluoridated etc. and won't be ideal for your hydroponics setup straight out of the tap. An incorrect pH of the water in which plants are growing can limit the ability of plants to absorb nutrients from it.
7. Monitor the Temperature
59-81 degrees F is the ideal temperature range for plants to thrive. Keep in mind that artificial lighting can also increase the temperature of a room.
]]>However, if you purchased your home freeze dryer years ago and have a Standard Oil Vacuum Pump, you can still purchase one when your old one reaches the end of life. You can also purchase refurbished Premier Oil Vacuum Pumps when available. The Oil Free Vacuum pump can be rebuilt when it reaches the end of its service life, which save you a lot of money compared with buying a new one.
Here is a side by side comparison chart to give you an overview of the vacuum pumps a home freeze dryer can use.
Model |
Standard Oil Vacuum Pump |
Premier Oil Vacuum Pump |
Oil Free Vacuum Pump |
Low Profile Oil Free Vacuum Pump |
Available |
Yes, for pre-existing freeze dryer customers only. |
Yes, ships standard with all Freeze Dryers. Available as a replacement or upgrade for existing customers. |
Yes, an upgrade available at time of purchase of a freeze dryer, or as a later upgrade. Current customers with an older model freeze dryer will need an adapter for the oil free vacuum pump. Harvest Right will provide the adapter free of charge. To verify which adapter you may need, call 800-700-5508. |
No - no longer offered |
Cost |
$ | $$$ | $$$$$ | $$$$$ |
Needs Oil Change |
Yes - oil change takes 2-3 minutes | Yes - oil change takes 2-3 minutes | No | No |
Oil Change Frequency |
Oil drained and filtered every 4-5 batches. Oil should be filtered, re-used, then topped up to half way up the sight glass. The filter is good for 20-25 filtrations before you should discard it and use a new one. |
Change the oil every 20-25 batches. Oil should be filtered, re-used, then topped up to half way up the sight glass. The filter is good for 20-25 filtrations before you should discard it and use a new one. |
Oil changes not required | Oil changes not required |
Gas Ballast |
It should be kept closed. | It should be kept open at all times. | n/a | n/a |
Noise Level |
64 decibels | 52 decibels (about the same as a refrigerator) |
62 decibels, then quieter once low-pressure is reached. | 62 decibels |
Maintenance |
Call Harvest Right to troubleshoot when you receive vacuum errors. | Call Harvest Right to troubleshoot when you receive vacuum errors. | Replace the scroll seal when you cannot achieve as deep of a vacuum. | Replace the scroll seal when you cannot achieve as deep of a vacuum. |
Weight |
35 lbs | 32 lbs | 53 lbs | 18 lbs |
Dimensions |
16″ L x 5-3/4" W x 10 1/2" H | 16.3″ x 6" x 12.1" | 22 1/4" L x 13 1/2" W x 15 1/4" H | 16" L x 6" W x 8.5" H |
Power Use |
218 Watts | 187 Watts | ||
Oil to Use |
Robinair Premium High Vacuum Pump Oil, JB Industries Black Gold Vacuum Pump Oil, Harvest Right Vacuum Pump Oil, Dairyland Vacuum Pump Oil | Robinair Premium High Vacuum Pump Oil, JB Industries Black Gold Vacuum Pump Oil, (Do not use Dairyland Vacuum Pump Oil or Harvest Right Vacuum Pump oil - both contain detergents and will not work in this pump) | n/a | n/a |
Pump Warranty |
1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Can be Rebuilt |
No | No, but a refurbished unit MAY be available from Harvest Right. Call for availability and price. | Yes - contact Harvest Right for details. Customer pays shipping both ways, and $375 (as of 9/14/22). | No |
A best practice that you should do at the end of each batch: Plug the pump into a wall outlet. Open the Freeze Dryer door and run the pump to free air for 3-4 minutes. This will push any water/particulates out of the pump. If you do this it will keep the pump very clean.
If you have an issue with your Harvest Right freeze dryer, go to the Harvest Right Customer Support page, select from the categories the one that best fits your situation. Then, if you can't find the solution in the knowledge base to resolve your issue, click the "Submit a Ticket" button and enter the details of your issue.
]]>Freeze drying is a process to preserve organic material such as food. First it flash freezes the food. As the food remains in sub-zero temperatures, a vacuum is applied, and the food’s frozen moisture is gradually removed through sublimation. Sublimation means the solid water becomes gas without going through the liquid state. At the end, the food will retain its shape and size but becomes significantly lighter. About 95-97% of the water content is removed. Properly packaged freeze dried food can have a shelf life of over 20 years.
Almost all foods can be freeze dried! Moisture is an integral part of the freeze drying process. As long as the food contains moisture, it’s a good candidate for freeze drying. That’s about 99% of foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, eggs, full meals, deserts, snacks, drinks, fresh herbs and spices, and more. Foods not suitable for freeze drying include those high in oil content such as butter, mayonnaise, peanut butter, and pure chocolate. Some others are honey, jam, and syrups.
Freeze drying is a clean and natural process that requires no additives, chemicals, or preservatives to be added. Add-on substances are artificial and foreign to our bodies and can cause harm. You can be completely confident that freeze dried food is pure and clean.
Some of us just tend to buy too much food and let some go to waste before we eat it. I am guilty myself. In my college days, my roommates would use my food in the fridge because it was about to spoil. Sometimes we cook too much food and throw away the leftovers. Freeze drying can preserve cooked food as well. Some people intentionally cook extra to freeze dry the leftovers to add variety to their food prep supply.
If you grow your own food and have an abundant harvest, you can freeze dry what you don’t use in addition to fermenting, pickling, and canning, and save it for the cold season. It is also a good way to enjoy foods when they are not in season. Freeze dried veggies can be reconstituted with water and used like fresh ones. Many freeze dried fruits can be enjoyed like chips.
Freeze dried small bites of fruits and meat become perfect healthy snacks to satisfy your cravings with no ill effects like most starchy food has. Freeze dried snacks are colorful and crunchy and are fun for kids. You are helping your kids to develop a good food choice habit for life.
Since over 95% of the water is removed from freeze dried food, it is super lightweight and perfect for mountaineering, backpacking, and outdoor trips. It is an ideal food choice for smart and active families or individuals when planning their outdoor or remote activities.
Take advantage of great food prices when food is on sale. Get better prices by buying in bulk. Use what you need and freeze dry the rest. Collaborate with other food preppers and buy direct from local farmers to get better discounts.
Unlike other shelf stable technologies, freeze drying requires no ionizing radiation, high heat, or other treatment which modifies the nature of the food. Freeze dried food retains its shape, color, size, and most importantly, its taste, texture, aroma, and nutrients, . This is unmatched by other food preservation methods.
Freeze drying takes a relatively short time, and it is very simple. The key is to cut the food into the size that will fit into the freeze drying tray. You then put the trays into the freeze dryer and simply push one button to start the process. The process time is normally around 24-36 hours. You then put the food into a Mylar pouch with an oxygen absorber packet or you can vacuum-seal it in a can. That’s it!
Freeze dried food can last for over 20 years if sealed and stored properly. It can be stored efficiently in a compact space. Once you build up your desired supply, you can cross that off your worry list.
Freeze dried food needs no refrigeration to store. It can be stored at room temperature or cooler. During a natural disaster, pandemic, power outage situation, or when typical food supplies are disrupted, protect your family with this reliable food source.
There is a lot to learn about freeze drying, and in this article I've tried to whet your appetite for more (see what I did there? Yeah, freeze drying humor can be pretty dry. :-) ). If you are ready to take the plunge, check out our Freeze Drying product lineup! Be sure to check out some of our bundles which have everything you need to get started.
Stay tuned for more articles in this series about choosing freeze drying equipment, the mysteries of vacuum pumps, tips and tricks, and success stories from our customers.
]]>Reposted from Solexx.com with some revision.
Solexx™ greenhouse paneling is a very strong, yet flexible, twin-wall polyethylene covering, making it easy to install and cost effective to ship. Due to its translucent characteristics, it diffuses light exceptionally well. Creating an environment with no shaded areas or hot spots and with an "R" value of
it makes an ideal covering for greenhouses, end walls, light panels, car ports, etc..... the possibilities are endless. This product may have slight imperfections, or blemishes, but they are only cosmetic and will not affect the quality or performance of the material.
1. UNROLLING: If the precut panel or length off of the roll is too curved for easy installation, try straightening it out by laying it out flat in a warm environment. Also, if the roll/panel has been in storage for a period of time, it may have developed a slight "yellow" tint from the UV inhibitor. Exposure to direct sunlight should quickly clear this up.
2. TEMPERATURE: Install Solexx™ Covering when the temperature is near the mean (yearly average) temperature for your area to allow for expansion and contraction. If this is not possible, put the panels in a heated area that is near the mean temperature for your area. When ready to put the panel on the structure, take the panel from this area and attach it to the structure. Solexx™ Panels will expand and contract with the temperature changes. By installing the panel at your mean temperature, the panel is in the middle of its expansion and contraction range.
3. PREPARATION: Solexx™ Greenhouse Covering has the best insulation qualities of any product on the market if installed properly. In order to achieve the R-Values; the ends of flutes must be filled with a ¼" bead of clear 100% silicone caulking prior to installation or after trimming an already attached panel. This traps the air inside the flutes. Unless you need to cut or trim the panels after installation, be sure the bottoms of the panels are caulked prior to installing as it is very difficult to point a caulking gun up ½" from the ground. The video below explains how to caulk the panels.
4. SPACING: We recommend that the framing (trusses) that will support your Solexx™ Covering be placed 16" - 24" on center. If applying to a greenhouse frame with 4' or 6' centers, cross bracing is recommended to prevent sagging between the bows. Ask us about cabling over the bows to prevent expansion sagging.
5. INSTALLING: Solexx™ paneling can be applied with the flutes running in either direction on your structure. Applying your Solexx™ paneling so that the flutes run perpendicular to the framing adds to the strength of your structure but it can also be applied in the same direction as the framing. If you are covering a plastic or a wood structure, attach with our 1" screws with neoprene washers to prevent water from getting into the flutes. Our 1" self-tapping screws are for installing your Solexx™ paneling onto metal framing. Either way, no pre-drilling of the paneling is needed. We suggest placing the screws about 6" apart on the stringers where it is overlapped or on the perimeter of the wall or roof structure. Be careful not to over-torque the screws, or you may crush the paneling. The washers should just slightly dimple the panel.
6. CUTTING: Except where your panel ends at ground level, it is helpful to attach the panel to your structure first, and then use a sharp, thin utility knife to follow the frame as a cutting guide. It works well to cut the panel with two passes of the knife. On the first pass, use light pressure to score the panel and set the path the knife will follow for the second pass. The second pass should be done with more pressure to cut through the panel, while making sure the knife is following the score line of the first pass.
7. U-TRIM: Caulking the ends of the flutes as described above will also prevent insects and moisture from intruding into the flutes. For cosmetic enhancement you may then slide a U-trim piece over the end of the panel for a permanent cap. Secure U-trim with small screws by poking a small starter hole in one side of it with an ice pick or small nail. Then insert screw through one side of the U-trim into the Solexx™ paneling. Place each screw approx. one foot apart. Put caulking in all the holes you created to stop water penetration. Normally the screws are installed from the under side of the panel or the side facing the center of the structure you are paneling.
8. H-CHANNEL: Panels can be joined together using H-Channel or overlapped on 4' or 6' centers. H-channel is most effective when used where the sides of the panel have no structure behind them to screw to. If using H-Channel attach one panel to your frame while leaving about 1/8" gap in between that panel and the next one you are attaching. This leaves enough space for you to slide the H-channel into place. If you need a little more room for the H-channel, you can always trim the panel a little. Keep the screws approx. 1" from each side of the H-Channel. Do not screw into the H-channel. **Do not use H-channels on a roof, unless it is one continuous H-channel running from side-to-side. No H-channel clips on a roof. If H-channel is difficult to slide on, try spraying the grooves of the H-channel and the edges of the panels with a little WD-40, Pam or try rubbing a dry bar of soap on the edges or liquid soap on the edges of the panels and tap on the end of the H-channel with a rubber mallet.
9. SQUARING: Do not use the panels to square your structure. Solexx™ rolls may not be perfectly square.
10. BENDING PANELS: It's not necessary to cut Solexx™ Panels when installing over roof peaks or around corners. You can score the panel using a straight edge and a blunt tipped object such as a Phillips screw driver, (be careful not to cut the panel) and then fold the panel along the scored line. Solexx™ paneling can be scored in either direction, either with the flutes or across the flutes.
11. CLEANING: Wipe down Solexx™ Greenhouse Covering with soap and water once a year for maximum efficiency of light transmission. Solexx™ is almost 100% inert. You could store hydrochloric acid in a container of Solexx™ and it would not damage the paneling.
For additional questions, please give us a call at 1-888-864-5333.]]>