We’re in the middle of a scorched-Earth summer here in Texas, but I know that some of you up north –especially those of you into gardening — are already starting to think about how you’re going to handle the snow-laden “off” season. Here’s a thought: Build yourself a low-buck greenhouse. What’s “cheap” for a greenhouse? Try $140.27. At least that’s what David LaFerney claims he spent to build the one you see pictured above.
LaFerney details the whole build process — complete with pictures and a whole lot of really helpful how-to language — over on The Door Garden. It’s essentially what he calls “a hoop house,” assembled from 20′ lengths of PVC tubing bent into arches and attached to a small 1×4 and ply frame. These “ribs” are then held together with stringers and covered in cheap plastic sheeting. (He suggests that real greenhouse plastic would likely prove more durable and better for the plants, but will also take a bigger chunk out of your wallet.)
Anyway, if you’re looking for a cheap way to get into year-round gardening, his writeup is a pretty good read. In good DIYer form, he spends less time telling you what to do than he does explaining why he chose the path he chose–and why you might want to vary from it. And if you’re wondering whether the greenhouse worked out, check out his post six months later documenting his plant-tending exploits in said greenhouse.
How to Build My $50 Greenhouse [The Door Garden]