7 unique features of the Classic Mini greenhouse
A Mini greenhouse is ideal for the gardener who does not have the room for a full sized greenhouse. The Access mini greenhouse has a number of unique features.
Unique ventilation system
Greenhouses are generally purchased to over-winter more delicate plants and bring on seedlings in the Spring. One disadvantage of traditional greenhouses is their lack of ventilation, so as the weather warms up the greenhouse becomes too hot for the plants. The unique Access ventilation system overcomes this, allowing the mini greenhouse to be used even in the hottest of Summers.
As well as sliding for gentle ventilation the front and the roof panels can also be removed in really hot weather. If the roof glass is removed and the front glass is left in place, hot air can vent out through the roof while the side glass will provide wind protection.
Built-in watering system
The built in watering system is ideal for watering tender seedlings and plug plants. A single inlet connects onto a garden hose and built-in mist nozzles spay out a fine mist – covering the mini greenhouse in a fine spray that is gentle enough not to damage young seedlings. On taller models two levels of nozzles are included – one in the roof and one below the centre staging.
Toughened safety glass for durability and safety
All mini greenhouses are supplied with 4mm toughened safety glass – the same thickness of glass fitted to double glazed windows. The toughening process makes the glass stronger and also ensures that if it does break, it shatters into small pieces like a car window.
To quote the RHS “The best glazing material is glass, as it lets 90 percent of light through, does not degrade in sunlight and, unlike plastic materials, reflects heat radiated from within the glasshouse back into the structure instead of being lost.” It’s rigidity ensures that in high winds it will not blow out of the mini greenhouse. It will also withstand 3′ (0.9m) of snow on the roof, making ideal for northern climates. Polycarbonate only lets 83% of light through and scratches more easily, further reducing light transmission. The hard surface on glass also makes cleaning easier, even after algae has been allowed to build up on the surface.
Architectural aluminium framework
The framework is manufactured from architectural aluminium, which is a mix of aluminium and other alloys such as magnesium and titanium. The frame needs no painting and is guaranteed for 25 years. All of the fixings are either aluminium or stainless steel.
In addition the aluminium can be powder coated one of 6 attractive colours. To ensure the coating lasts as long as possible all components are degreased and etched before being the powder is sprayed on and baked in an oven. The resulting surface is smooth, making it easier to clean, and very hard wearing.
Removable centre staging
Taller models include a centre staging area. To ensure the lower areas of the mini greenhouse are a light as possible, the centre staging is manufactured from toughened safety glass, casting no shadows to on the plants below. The glass is incredibly strong and tested to 50kg (112 lbs) load. For taller crops the centre staging can be removed.
Shelving system
The mini greenhouse includes a built-in shelving system, making the most of the useable space while still ensuring that all plants receive adequate light. The seed tray shelves consist of slim aluminium bars to minimise shadowing. Each shelf is height adjustable and can be removed or folded flat when no longer required. In the early Spring all the shelves can be up, holding seedlings and young plants. As these are transferred to the garden or allotment the shelves can be folded down and taller crops such as tomatoes and peppers can fill the mini greenhouse.
Option automatic louvre vent
The optional louvre vent will open and close automatically as the temperature changes. Opening at around 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 deg C) the vent is ideal if you go out for the day. For mini greenhouses on East facing walls, the vent will also open early in the morning when the sun rises.
The thermo-mechanical vent uses no electricity so has no running costs.