How Does a Greenhouse Work?
We all know that greenhouses do wonders for our plants, allowing them to grown bigger and stronger than if they were uncovered, but how does a greenhouse actually achieve this? Is it magic or is there something really easy to understand about how a greenhouse works?
Solar Energy:
Solar energy which is commonly known as sunlight is converted to thermal energy or what is better known as heat. Simply put a greenhouse takes the sun’s rays and heats them up. Greenhouses filter the sunlight through the walls and ceiling, normally made of glass or polycarbonate, which then heats up the air that is trapped inside.
This process helps plants to grow to their full potential and keeps them protected from external forces that may damage them by trampling, eating or damage caused by wind or rain. Plants will always grow better if they are exposed to a temperate heat and a good water source and when kept correctly in a greenhouse they receive both.
Composition of a Greenhouse and its Effects:
Traditionally a greenhouse is made up of either plastic or glass with the purpose of trapping as much sun light and therefore heat as possible within the building. The plants and soil then absorb the sunlight and reflect it back out.
Sunlight is composed of shortwave infrared radiation, but as the solar energy is reflected back outwards after absorption by the plants and soil it is altered in to long wave infrared radiation which cannot pass through the greenhouse exterior.
As this process continues and more of the energy is trapped inside the greenhouse the heat builds up even further. The plants, soil and circulating air becomes warm and humid through the process of convection because as the plants heat up they release moisture. Humidity is just water vapour which is known as a greenhouse gas.
Where to Build the Greenhouse:
Positioning your greenhouse is key to making the most of the process of converting as much solar energy in to thermal energy as possible. It is no use placing your greenhouse in a shady area or next to a building that will block light for most of the day. A greenhouse needs to be positioned where it will be able to absorb as much sun light for as long as possible throughout the day.
Greenhouse Tips:
Here are a few tips to make the most out of your greenhouse growing experience:
- Even the best greenhouses may need assistance when generating heat during the coldest of times of the year. Heating devises specifically designed for external use may be required to keep the greenhouse at an optimal temperature.
- The greenhouse glazing needs to be maintained and cleaned regularly to stop the dirt and debris from blocking the sunlight from entering the building.
- Good ventilation is required to allow air to circulate and invigorate the interior of the greenhouse.
- Insects need to be allowed to enter the greenhouse to pollinate the plants, flowers, fruit and vegetables that you are growing inside.
- Regular watering is essential as the soil will dry out quickly and the plants will die without proper care.
- Although not essential, feeding the plants with a high quality plant food will make them even stronger and they may yield more fruit.
Happy Gardening.
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