Building a greenhouse is an exciting step for any grower — whether you’re a vegetable farmer, flower grower, or a retail garden center. But before you start laying the foundation, there’s one critical decision that can make or break your investment: choosing the right greenhouse size.
Too small, and you’ll quickly outgrow it. Too large, and you might struggle to heat, manage, or even afford it.
Let’s break down what factors to consider so your greenhouse fits your operation perfectly — today and into the future.
1. Consider Your Crop Goals
First things first: what are you growing, and how much do you plan to produce?
- Vegetables: If you’re growing tomatoes, cucumbers, or peppers, you’ll need space for vertical growth, trellising, and easy access for harvest.
- Flowers: Think about aisle space for moving plants and customers (if retail).
- Seedlings: Benching and work areas can impact how much floor space is available.
Estimate your production goals and work backward to determine how many plants you need to grow — that will help you estimate the footprint required.
2. Factor in Workflow and Access
A greenhouse isn’t just for plants — it’s also a workspace. If you’re running a commercial operation, plan for:
- Walkways wide enough for carts or equipment
- Benching, potting, and workspace areas
- Access to utilities like water and electricity
Proper planning helps avoid bottlenecks during harvest, planting, or daily maintenance.
3. Think About Expansion
A common mistake we see at Quality Structures is growers building just enough for today — and then realizing a year later they need more.
When choosing your greenhouse size, plan for:
- Future bays or tunnels
- Utility lines that can handle expansion
- Site layout that allows for additional structures
Adding on later is easier (and cheaper) when you plan from the start.
4. Budget Wisely
While it’s tempting to build the biggest structure possible, bigger isn’t always better — especially when it comes to heating and maintenance.
- Heating costs rise with size — especially in the Midwest’s cold months.
- More square footage means more glazing or poly to maintain and replace.
- A larger structure also means more upfront investment in materials and labor.
At Quality Structures, we help clients balance their budget with the right size to meet their goals.
5. Don’t Forget Local Codes and Permits
Before finalizing your greenhouse size, check with local building authorities to ensure you comply with zoning and code requirements. Some municipalities have height restrictions or require setbacks from property lines.
Our team at Quality Structures is fully licensed and insured in Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska, and we navigate these requirements every day. Contact us and let us help you avoid permit headaches.
Ready to Build a Greenhouse That Fits?
Choosing the right greenhouse size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. It’s not just about square footage — it’s about creating a space that helps your farm or business grow, operate efficiently, and thrive.
At Quality Structures, we work with growers across the Midwest to design and build greenhouses that are sized for success. From high tunnels to fully customized commercial greenhouses, we’re here to make sure your investment is one you can rely on.
Ready to get started? Reach out here to discuss your project and request a custom quote.
