THE STRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF GREENHOUSES. 53 



MEETING FOR DISCUSSION. 



The Structure and Management of Greenhouses. 



By William D. Philbbick, Editor of the Massachusetts Ploughman. 



I do not know that I have much information that is new to 

 offer upon the subject before us, but will endeavor to explain 

 briefly some points that have suggested themselves during fifteen 

 or twenty years of experience in working glass structures. 



The aspect of the greenhouse should be facing the south or 

 southeast for such plants as love the light and heat of the sun, 

 as most plants do. But to this rule there are some notable 

 exceptions ; the Camellia, the ferns, some orchids and begonias, 

 and some trailing vines whose natural home is in shady places, 

 will thrive better in a house facing east or west or even north ; 

 and for the cutting bench a northern aspect is to be desired. 



The angle of inclination of the glass roof is a matter of some 

 consequence and differs with the purpose for which the house is 

 intended. 



Where a low temperature is desired and when the plants do 

 not require much height for their growth, as is the case with 

 lettuce, radishes, violets, pansies, primulas, and the like, a house 

 with a rather flat roof, having the beds quite near the glass is to be 

 desired. Most of the lettuce houses built by the market gardeners 

 have an inclination of about 10° or a rise of three feet in a rafter 

 twelve feet long, and the beds are from eighteen inches to five 

 feet from the glass. Such houses are usually devoted to growing 

 cucumbers in spring and summer. 



Where a higher temperature is required during severe winter 

 weather, and where the plants require more room for their growth, 

 as for instance winter cucumbers, carnations, roses, and the like, 

 it is usual to give the glass a greater inclination — say from 20° to 

 25° or from four to five feet rise to twelve feet horizontal. 



Where glass is used facing the north, as in the northerly side 

 of the span roof or three-quarters span, so-called, the portion 

 facing in a northerly direction is often made much steeper — sa}^ 

 35°. This arrangement is in order to prevent snow from lodging, 

 and to avoid a high back wall. 



I like to have a chance to work a cart alongside the greenhouse 

 and have movable sashes on both sides for the purpose of throw- 



