Residents Learn How to Build Their Own Green House in Deadwood

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources hosted a workshop on “How to Build Your Own Green House” Wednesday, April 24^th 2012.  The workshop provided hands on techniques and advice that focused on: building materials, construction plans and, the benefits of a greenhouse. 

NeighborWorks® Rehab Specialist, Robert Thorp, offered his knowledge and techniques on how to build an efficient home green house.  Robert allowed attendees to view his green house that he designed and constructed nearly 12 years ago. He stated that construction and operating cost could vary when building a green house.  No green house needs to be exactly the same; construction should be based on your needs and expectations. Gardening is a passion for Robert,  his green house is 120 square feet, and is on the higher end of cost because he continues to improve it and add extra amenities.

Robert’s greenhouse produces   60-80 pounds of tomatoes, dozens of sweet bell peppers and allows him to start growing all of his annual flowers.   During the spring and fall months the average daily cost is approximately a $1.30 a day.  Robert utilizes his green house April through November.  He states the value of having fresh produce is worth his cost and time. 

“Having your own green house does not only allow you to have fresh produce, it is a therapeutic hobby” Robert stated.

Robert suggests that the first step in building a green house is to find the perfect location and place your greenhouse where you will have the most southern exposure.

NeighborWorks® Dakota Home Resources is a private non-profit organization that has been assisting in providing safe, decent and, affordable housing and revitalizing neighborhoods for twenty years.  NeighborWorks® helps families and individuals Buy, Fix, and Keep their homes.  NeighborWorks® host free post purchase workshops and homebuyer education classes to educate on home maintenance classes and the home buying process.   Classes are free and open to the public.  For a complete list of up-coming classes visit www.neighborworksdhr.org or contact NeighborWorks® at 605-578-1401.