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GARDENING IN NEBRASKA

Most do not believe a water garden can be maintained in subfreezing temperatures.  At the Secret Coffeehouse, Rosa Lee Hoff proved otherwise!  Enjoy the video about Rosa Lee's many greenhouses!  Because even Nebraska can have springtime year-round.

How can I heat my greenhouse?
There are several ways to heat a greenhouse if you live in a subfreezing climate. But heating depends on the size of greenhouse you might have.  

▪  A small coldframe built low to the ground can be heated by simply using a string of large C-9 or C-7 Christmas tree lights. Power with a small solar panel used to light a walkway or used to open a gate.
▪  Double Insulate your greenhouse with 2 layers of 6 mil. plastic sheeting.
▪  Bubble Wrap should be used as insulation between the layers of plastic. Use 1" wide bubbles bubble wrap.
▪  Larger Greenhouses can be easily heated with an oil burner that you can make yourself!  

 Growing in Subfreezing Temperatures
You can grow a water garden even if your climate zone experiences subfreezing winter temperatures; such as 10°-20° Fahrenheit, zones 3-7. The growing season can be short and in some areas is only 2-3 months out of each year.  Click the links on the left to see pics of cold climate pond plants.

Here are some helpful tips to help extend your garden growth and to help you get started...

Think Shelter
Location is the primary concern.  Build your pond and greenhouse with the following in mind...

1. Build near an electrical source, water source, and in an area that has easy access for maintenance

2. Build in a sunny south facing location

3. Build near a windbreak, such as the side of a house or a fence. Bamboo trees make a beautiful natural wind break, however they do shed a ton of leaves which will dirty the pond water.

Water Depth The pond should be at least 18-24 inches deep. In subfreezing climates a deeper pond might be necessary.