First time using my little greenhouse

platys · March 1, 2011

This is our first spring in our new house. The previous owners had built a little "mini greenhouse" off the garage - mainly, its a small room with mostly glass on 3 sides. It has a whole seed starting setup, including working shop lights and shelves. It was one of the selling features of the house to me.

The previous owners probably used the gas heater that is built into the room. However, we've been advised to not touch the thing, given that it hasn't been inspected, and there's no reason to think it would pass inspection.

So, I'm realizing that I'm going to have a serious cold problem. In May in my area of IL, the average night time temps will still be below 40, but not by much. I read that having the seedlings be cold can be good, but is 35-38 too cold? I'm assuming the shop lights will put out some heat. If I add heating pads, would that help?

I know I'll have to start the seeds inside the house, no matter what. I have four cats, so finding a spot will be a challenge.

March 1, 2011	#1
platys Tomatovillian™ Join Date: May 2010 Location: Naperville, IL Posts: 176	First time using my little greenhouse This is our first spring in our new house. The previous owners had built a little "mini greenhouse" off the garage - mainly, its a small room with mostly glass on 3 sides. It has a whole seed starting setup, including working shop lights and shelves. It was one of the selling features of the house to me. The previous owners probably used the gas heater that is built into the room. However, we've been advised to not touch the thing, given that it hasn't been inspected, and there's no reason to think it would pass inspection. So, I'm realizing that I'm going to have a serious cold problem. In May in my area of IL, the average night time temps will still be below 40, but not by much. I read that having the seedlings be cold can be good, but is 35-38 too cold? I'm assuming the shop lights will put out some heat. If I add heating pads, would that help? I know I'll have to start the seeds inside the house, no matter what. I have four cats, so finding a spot will be a challenge.