I often get asked which greenhouse would I recommend to purchase if you are just getting started and want it to be your hobby. Of course, there are tons of cheap and easy DIY projects which you can follow to build your own greenhouse.
However, if you are not that good in building something yourself (I can relate to that) then buying a greenhouse sounds like a good idea.
Some providers offer support services in assembling a greenhouse for you but usually it isn’t that hard to do it yourself with a little bit of help from your family members.
Palram Nature Series Hybrid Review
A greenhouse I want to review today is a Palram Nature Series Hybrid Hobby Greenhouse.
So, I am going to review the functionality of this model based on the size, shape, frame material, glazing material and price.
If you need more information on how to choose a greenhouse these are my top 14 tips to help you do so.
Okay, I am done with rambling let’s get started!
Greenhouse Size
A Palram Nature Series Hybrid Hobby Greenhouse comes in a variety of sizes. Starting with the smallest one which is 6’x4’x7′ and the biggest option of 6’x14’x7′.
You are probably thinking that the bigger greenhouse the better it is. However, if you take into consideration the heating costs, your growing plans and space in your garden the size of the desired greenhouse will significantly decrease.
Bear in mind that your plants are going to grow so you need to triple the space required for each plant. If you go for the smallest option it leaves you with the 24 sq. feet of growing space.
Greenhouse Accessories
Remember that you will need space to move around in the greenhouse. It is a good idea to use additional accessories to maximize the use of the available space.
For example, you can place a 3 tier shelf on one side and on the opposite side leave space for a row of tomatoes.
You can also use a twin shelf kit for the upper space and heavy duty shelves are ideal for heavy pots on the bottom.
So, it is important to evaluate your growing expectations and available space to choose the biggest greenhouse possible.
Greenhouse Shape
The right shape of the greenhouse will definitely increase the growing space. That’s why I like a Palram Nature Series Hybrid model.
It’s a freestanding greenhouse meaning that there is more space for growing. Also, the model is in a traditional even-span shape which again is very spacious.
It gives you an additional space for hanging plants in a head room. Moreover, this shape strengthens the whole structure and can hold up to 35 pounds per square foot snow load.
I have to add that the even-span greenhouse utilizes the maximum amount of sunlight. To find in more details about the different types of the greenhouse structures go to this article.
Greenhouse Frame Material
A frame of the greenhouse plays a vital role in the durability of the whole structure. Moreover, it serves as a source of the insulation.
A Palram Nature Series Hybrid Hobby greenhouse is made of the aluminum frame which is rust resistant.
In terms of insulation aluminum is not as good as wood, for example, meaning that it does let some amount of heat out.
I love aluminum frame because it’s maintenance free, easy to install (lightweight) and is very durable.
This model comes with the smart panel slide and lock system. These are designed to connect the frame precisely and quickly into place.
In the article about greenhouse frame materials I am talking about the issues with aluminum frame if your greenhouse doesn’t have a sturdy base.
You don’t need to worry about it if you purchase a Palram greenhouse. It comes with the heavy-duty galvanized steel base.
You can install it directly on the ground or foundation. However, if you live in the area with strong winds I would recommend getting an anchor kit.
It is very easy to install on any type of ground and can withstand winds up to 75 mph.
Greenhouse Frame Color – Green vs Silver?
I have noticed that a Forest Green model is approximately 96$ more than a Silver one. Why is that? Green color is a powder coat finish over the aluminum frame.
Hence, the silver option is just a frame made of aluminum. You might ask what is the advantage of the powder coating and is it worth paying extra money.
Well, the main reason why aluminum greenhouses are powder coated with green finish is because it blends in with the natural garden surrounding.
Once the greenhouse is powder coated you never need to re-paint it again. The powder coated greenhouse is protected against the elements, however you need to clean it regularly to maintain the high quality finish.
The typical guarantee for powder coating is 10 years but from what I have seen it tends to last for about 15 to 25 years. So, it is for you to decide which design you want and if you are willing to pay extra for it.
Greenhouse Glazing material
I am a big fan of the pairs of frame and glazing material. I love a combo of wood and glass, PVC pipe and polyethylene film and so on.
So, when I found that this model comes with aluminum frame and polycarbonate I was beyond happy. Polycarbonate is very safe.
It won’t break into dangerous sharp strands as glass will. Particularly in this model the roof is made of the 4 mm twin-wall polycarbonate panels which block up to 99% of harmful UV radiation.
For the side panels crystal clear polycarbonate sheets were used to transmit 90% of the sunlight inside the greenhouse.
However, I have some issues with the durability of the polycarbonate glazing. It tends to last for about 10 years.
Also, an exposure to UV radiation can yellow the plastic and it can pop out of the frame. However, this greenhouse is made only of the virgin materials and claims not to break or discolor over prolonged periods of time.
Ease of setting up a greenhouse
The manufacturer provides you with the instructions of how to assemble a greenhouse. These are not the written instructions but drawings which are quite easy to understand according to the reviews of buyers.
In the guidelines it says that the installation does take on average 5 hours which is very good in comparison to other models.
Also, you are the most likely to set it up yourself or with one extra person. This is due to the smart panel slide and lock system which connects the frame into the place and polycarbonate panels slide easily into profile channels.
5 years limited warranty and US customer service
Additional Features
Greenhouse Ventilation
As you already know guys it is very important to ventilate your greenhouse for a successful growth. Palram Nature Series Hybrid comes with a single roof vent which you can place on either side of the greenhouse.
The vent comes with the manual opening mechanism which you need to remember to close or open.
Of course, you can purchase an auto vent kit which opens automatically when the temperature in your greenhouse rises. Moreover, the door with magnetic catch keeps the air flowing.
Here you can find more information on how to ventilate a greenhouse in winter.
Rain gutters in a greenhouse
Another striking feature of this greenhouse is integrated rain gutters which dispense the rain water to the ends of the greenhouse.
That way you can collect rain water which you can use to water plants in your greenhouse. Many plants will actually grow better when you use fresh rainwater rather than the tap water!
Palram Nature Series Hybrid Price
Whilst comparing this greenhouse with other models of the same size I found it to be quite cheap including the features it has.
Most of the buyers in their reviews mentioned that the greenhouse is totally worth the money. It is currently on sale and is the best deal on the market at the moment.
I hope you found this review helpful and let me know if you have purchased this greenhouse along with your honest opinion.
Please let me know in the comments section if you have any questions about ‘greenhousing’.
Happy growing everyone!
