The path inside the greenhouse needs to 850mm (2' 6") wide if you use a wheelchair or walking frame. The path should be level, non-slip and firm. Make sure you can reach the back of any staging or shelves - this might mean having staging only 600cm (2') wide. Also ensure that the staging is the right height for you.Your local Garden Centre should have a range of heavy duty plastic or galvanised staging.
The options for heating are butane gas, electricity, paraffin or none at all. As well as for heating, an electricity supply to the greenhouse can be used for automatic ventilation and soil warming. Even without heat, the greenhouse has many uses.
A minimum of 7-8°C (45~47°F) is sufficient to grow many plants over winter, although the more tropical species will not tolerate this low temperature.
The two popular types of electric heaters are tubular and fan styles. Fan heaters tend to use more electricity but do circulate the air and can be used to help ventilation in the summer. Most manufacturers will offer advice on the size of heater required for your greenhouse. When choosing an electric heater ensure that it has a thermostat and has been tested to IP21 which allows it to be used where moisture and splashing may occur. The Powerforce Heater featured in our competition meets this requirement.
Paraffin heaters are a very good source of heat and are relatively cheap to use. However, they do produce a lot of water vapour and condensation can be a problem, especially under polythene. They can also smoke unless the wick is kept trim and well adjusted. The heater should always be filled outside the greenhouse as spilt paraffin contaminates the soil and gives off harmful fumes.
Gas heaters are also readily available and should be chosen to suit the size of your greenhouse.
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