Because of the vertical orientation within the greenhouse, each shelf has been designed to catch excess water and duct it to a drain pipe. Notice the vertical 1/2 in. PVC pipe behind the shelves. This is the drain pipe which ducts water to the main drain behind the shelves on the floor. Each shelf has such a drain to prevent plants on lower shelves from being inadvertently watered. The shelf drain connects to the floor drain system which pipes water down the hill to outside fruit trees so that no water is wasted.

While none of the pictures show the floor, it was originally gravel. Experience with gravel demonstrated that it was dirty, housed insects and could harbor disease. So, last March, we cleared the greenhouse, picked up the gravel, installed a drain system and poured concrete. If you want to minimize pest intrusion, cut potential disease sources, maintain a clean greenhouse, then consider a concrete floor. Experience has shown it to be the best for the money.

Because space is at such a premium within the greenhouse, PVC covered rebar is suspended every 5 - 6 in from the roof above the aisle for hanging plants. Presently, the front two bars are covered with vandas while the rear bars hold a variety of Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, and other assorted orchids.