Whether a greenhouse is freestanding or attached (lean-to greenhouse) it is one of the most popular types of garden buildings in use today. It is a self-contained structure in back garden or yard, which helps you grow what you want - flowers, vegetables, or fruits, when you want - in dry summers, winters and even during snow. It serves the practical purpose of extending your garden and aiding your gardening hobby. A greenhouse can also add something to a property. For example, a beautifully built hardwood greenhouse also adds to the beauty of your house or home.

Freestanding greenhouses and attached greenhouses (or lean-to greenhouses) are the two main types of greenhouses that you can construct in your back garden or yard. The difference is fairly obvious. Freestanding greenhouses are independent structures. Attached greenhouses are precisely that – attached!. This means that attached greenhouses have the advantages of instant water, heat and light from the properties utilities. Also, they present no need to alter or disturb your landscaping. Freestanding greenhouses on the other hand, require separate heating systems, water and electricity that may increase your initial expenses of setting up such a greenhouse. Freestanding greenhouses are generally preferred to attached greenhouses, as they pose no limitations on size, space and

You need to provide such freestanding greenhouses considerable shelter by constructing them at a suitable site or providing additional shading like shade-cloths during the warmer months. A shade helps avoid overheating a greenhouse in the warmer months. This risk is usually present in freestanding greenhouses, since they are not as shaded as lean-to attached greenhouses. The latter share a wall with an existing building and thus receive adequate shade. This same feature works in the favour of freestanding greenhouses during the cooler months as then, they get maximum all-round exposure to the sun. Its small wonder then, that freestanding greenhouses are the most common type of greenhouse used.

A lean-to greenhouse is attached (leans to) a building, garage or house, using the existing structure for one or more of its sides. It gets its name simply because its support is aided by another structure. Apart from the ease in which heat, light and water can be provided the other major advantage is its accessibility. You can tend to your plants at anytime of day without having to brave the elements to get there. You can therefore give them the attention they deserve.

About the Author

Matthew Anthony manages and writes for several garden based sites such as greenhouses and conservatories.