Physical Greenhouse Design Considerations - Florida Greenhouse Vegetable Production Handbook, Vol 2: HS776/CV254, 6/2020

Abstract

The greenhouse structure must be designed to withstand the loads that will be imposed on it during normal use. These include environmental loads such as wind, rain, and loads imposed by hanging baskets or by equipment mounted on the structure. For vegetable production, most greenhouse frames are not strong enough to perform double duty as a trellis support for vegetables. Therefore, it is best to erect a separate trellis system within the confines of the house for vegetables.

The National Greenhouse Manufacturers Association (NGMA) publishes a standard that gives guidance for the design of greenhouses. It is recommended that every greenhouse be constructed to meet NGMA standards. This document presents relevant information on the characteristics that an adequate greenhouse design must have. First published in 1999.