Most gardeners would love to own a greenhouse. This appeal may be strongest in cold climates, but to be able to grow a large supply of sturdy seedlings is a pretty appealing no matter where you live. And what gardener doesn't relish the idea of having an environment filled with orchids, citrus and jasmine or have the opportunity to pick fresh salad greens and tomatoes on a cold winter day. There are now dozens of affordable, well-constructed greenhouses on the market, as well as a full range of accessories that make greenhouse gardening easier than ever.

This may seem like a simplistic question, but function is really the most important factor in determining the type and size of greenhouse you choose.

An attached hobby greenhouse is the right choice if you want a place to read and putter around with potted plants. A freestanding polyethylene covered house will most likely give you everything you need for starting seeds. But a solar greenhouse that doesn't require extra heat would be ideal if your objective is to have a nearly year-round supply of fresh greens and herbs.

Climate and location are crucial considerations. Operating year-round greenhouses for winter gardening in Vermont or Minnesota usually requires an insulated foundation, double glazing, insulating shades, buried power and water lines, and a serious financial commitment for heating.

But people who do have a greenhouse, and have tasted the pleasures of being able to fuss around in their own warm, plant-filled jungle, would be quick to argue that the benefits outweigh the challenges of a shade cloth, multiple fans and a misting system in the summer months.

Some of us can afford to buy and erect a prefabricated greenhouse, and some of us can't. But even if you include yourself in the latter group, that's still no reason to do without your very own plant conservatory.

LOCATION

For too many years greenhouse manufacturers have been saying, "If you add a plant place to your house, make sure you put it on the south side of the existing structure." That's a good suggestion, but hardly mandatory. If you plan to grow orchids, you will find a northern exposure ideal and there have been excellent greenhouses with healthy plants in east and west facing greenhouses.

And by all means, figure on a lean-to construction. It will put the greenhouse in close proximity to the rest of your living space; add beauty and a feeling of openness to that space.

SIZE

We all start off wanting an absolutely huge place for our plants. This really isn't necessary. For instance with careful staging (benches and tables) you can accommodate over 100 plants in a greenhouse that is just 8 X 10 feet?