Designed for a range of plants that grow naturally in filtered light, shade houses provide protection for ferns, orchids and many other plants. Shade houses are also used widely in Australia to provide a sheltered position for resting indoor plants.
In warmer climates shade houses are also useful for growing a range of plants that grow well in cool to temperate regions but do not cope with the amount hot direct sun.
Shade house designs and features
Size, although some models are in fact ‘extendable’ it is much better to install the largest size that you are likely to need at the beginning, if cost is not a problem. Its easier and in the long term cheaper.
Also consider height and interior layout, you need to be able to stand up easily and it it best if you have plenty of room for shelves.
Shelving is one of the most important elements of shade house design, consider the height of the plants you are growing and if the shelf height will suit, also consider reach, plants that you can not reach will be a problem.
Shade House Structure
Usually built with metal or PVC frame, consider weight, durability and strength. A shade house with ‘built in shelves’ can be an excellent solution, perhaps not as flexible as movable shelving but generally very strong and practical.
- Shelves
Height of shelves, this will differ according the plants you are growing. Ability to ‘hang plant’ in baskets etc, the structure will need to be strong enough to do this if required. - Door
A lockable door to keep out animals and birds. - Fixture to ground
Shade houses can easily be overturned by wind, they need to be secured to the ground - Degree of shade required
Shade cloth comes in a range of densities, 50% shade, 75% shade and so on, what do require. - Rain Cap
Useful to keep rain and wind from damaging plants, also to prevent excess water from reaching plants such as succulents - Watering or Misting Systems
This will depend on what you grow and where you are located, however automatic watering and misting systems are available - Kit or Prefabricated
This depends on your ‘handyman skill’. Look for clear instruction for any kit, and preferably telephone support. (Australian Made)
Shade Houses are available for sale from the following suppliers
