Can someone recommend a good (safe) way to heat a mini-greenhouse. It really is not large enough to accomodate a regular small space heater or sun lamp without risk of melting the cover. It's 66"x40"x19". I should probably also mention it is on a wood deck. Thank You!
Used to use 60 watt and 75 watt light bulbs at the very top of our dog house, with a thin board over it for blocking the light for the dog. Seemed to work okay, but we always brought the dog in when it was below 40-ish. If that option isn't available, there is the option of heating with hot air in piping (even PVC on this scale) under the greenhouse. Definately block of direct N winds, if the deck is raised block the air flow under it. Place some rocks or concrette block under the deck if enough light can get to them for radiant evening heat. Finally, a decorative trick, use some mirrors to reflect the sun into the greenhouse - morning and evening only. This helps warm quicker and longer without blasting the max sunlight into it. If willing, let us know what you do and how it works this winter. I would be intrested in seeing you situation and solution! Good Luck~
I have a small greenhouse, it's 3 wire shelves and a plastic cover that zips closed. I had it on my deck with some baby plants a couple of years ago when we got a cold snap. I was in the same dilemma...how to keep it warm without melting the cover...I put a heat lamp on the outside, several feet away and aimed the light at the greenhouse. It provided enough heat to keep my plants alive but didn't damage the cover. If it's only going to be a few nights or so, you can also fill milk jugs with hot water and put them inside the greenhouse. That will keep things warm for a while but if it's really cold you might have to reheat your water during the night.
