The need for extra growing space within the available basic greenhouse sizes has resulted in the glass-to-ground design that is offered by several manufacturers. In this design, solid walls from sill to ground are replaced by glass, practically doubling the growing area. Camellia hobbyists admire this glass-to-ground design because it insures adequate light for their tall plants, and it is practical to remove the standard benches.

Fiberglass-reinforced plastic
Increasing in popularity is the use of fiberglass-reinforced plastic instead of glass for greenhouse roof and walls. The translucent corrugated type is preferred. The color will depend on the plants you grow, because different colors transmit different amounts of light and also different parts of the light spectrum. The most translucent white fiberglass-reinforced plastic you can get is probably the best for a hobby greenhouse. Extensive research is being carried on by agricultural experiment stations and greenhouse manufacturers to determine how successful such structures will be for hobby and commercial growers.

A Family Room
Besides being a place to grow plants, part of your greenhouse can be furnished to serve as a family room. Any type or style of greenhouse can be adapted provided there is adequate control of condensation.' A lean-to that adjoins an open porch or basement playroom can be arranged attractively as a garden room with slate floors, built-in pool, or cabinets topped with planting trays instead of conventional greenhouse benches. Even-span models can be more completely furnished as sitting or dining areas with waterproof carpeting, easy chairs, game or dining tables, and draperies or bamboo shades to avoid the "living-in-a-glass-house" feeling.

Grow into Your Greenhouse not out of it!
Before you buy a greenhouse, you should decide upon the best location, the type and style suited to your architecture and you’re kind of gardening, and the greenhouse size. One thing is certain—and on this all hobby greenhouse enthusiasts are agreed—you had better put up a bigger house than you now think you will need. Do not select a very small greenhouse just because you are a beginner. Seeds germinate fast, enthusiasm grows faster still, and the small greenhouse that seemed ample in the planning stage too soon becomes cramped and crowded. So give yourself room to grow in, and then grow into your greenhouse, not out of it!