We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Culinary

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Geodesic Greenhouse?

Sara Schmidt
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,832
Share

A geodesic greenhouse is a structure normally designed in the form of a dome, and built from polygonal-shaped segments, which evenly distribute light to the plants residing inside. The construction material can vary according to the builder's preferences, ranging from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, to all-natural wood. The spherical building is based on the "geodesic dome" concept, patented by R. Buckminster Fuller.

Many gardeners favor the geodesic greenhouse design for its aesthetic appeal, as well as its functionality. Like other types of greenhouses, the geodesic model creates a warmer atmosphere, in both the air and the soil that the plants occupy. The geodesic design allows this to occur by trapping light energy and heat within the greenhouse, without allowing the outdoor cold to seep in.

Vinyl is typically used as the covering material of a geodesic greenhouse. A standard frame often consists of galvanized steel tubes arranged in polygonal patterns. Several other materials, however, can also be used for the structure, including PVC pipe, various types of wood, bamboo, or other types of metal. Depending upon the materials used, the greenhouse dome can range from a moderate cost to an expensive one.

When building a geodesic greenhouse, many people opt for a tetrahedron design. This standard outline consists of triangular pieces that not only provide light, but a strong framework for the dome. The flooring of a geodesic greenhouse is often made from treated wood or gravel. Plain dirt is another popular flooring material.

Advantages of a geodesic greenhouse are similar to those of other greenhouses. People who reside in areas with brief growing seasons can extend the lives of their plants. This can mean the difference between being able to grow enough food to feed one's family or not. Unlike other types of greenhouses, a geodesic model can be more economical, since it often requires less building materials.

Lacking the need for support beams or other larger interior support structures, the geodesic shape is also an ideal use of space. It can provide the maximum interior area with minimum materials. Since domes are usually very lightweight, they are also easier to move around a yard, or even to a new location, than a typical greenhouse.

The drawbacks of this class of greenhouse structure include the fact that furnishing a geodesic greenhouse can be a difficult task, given its spherical design. Another disadvantage of a geodesic greenhouse is the lack of builders with knowledge or experience with the structures. Assembling a dome is a fairly simple process, but since most buildings are rectangular or square, many carpenters may not know how to custom build a dome, thus requiring greater research on the part of the builder.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Sara Schmidt
By Sara Schmidt
With a Master's Degree in English from Southeast Missouri State University, Sara Schmidt puts her expertise to use by writing for WiseGeek, plus various magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She published her own novella and has other literary projects in the works. Sara's diverse background includes teaching children in Spain, tutoring college students, running CPR and first aid classes, and organizing student retreats, reflecting her passion for education and community engagement.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Sara Schmidt
Sara Schmidt
With a Master's Degree in English from Southeast Missouri State University, Sara Schmidt puts her expertise to use by writing for WiseGeek, plus various magazines, websites, and nonprofit organizations. She published her own novella and has other literary projects in the works. Sara's diverse background includes teaching children in Spain, tutoring college students, running CPR and first aid classes, and organizing student retreats, reflecting her passion for education and community engagement.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-a-geodesic-greenhouse.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.