Selecting the right location and orientation for your greenhouse is just as important as the structure itself. Whether you're setting up a high-tech commercial greenhouse or a basic plastic-covered tunnel, placement affects sunlight exposure, temperature regulation, energy usage, and plant health.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about greenhouse placement—from orientation and terrain to climate and wind protection—so you can get the best performance out of your greenhouse investment.
A poorly placed greenhouse can lead to:
Inconsistent temperatures
Reduced crop yields
Higher heating/cooling costs
Excessive humidity or poor airflow
On the other hand, a well-placed greenhouse:
Maximizes sunlight exposure
Improves natural ventilation
Reduces energy bills
Promotes healthier, faster-growing plants
The orientation of your greenhouse is the first key decision.
East–West orientation (long side faces south/north):
Best for winter production in northern climates. It maximizes sunlight capture during shorter days.
North–South orientation:
Best for year-round or summer production, as it allows more even light distribution across all plants throughout the day.
✅ Recommendation:
For commercial growers in latitudes between 20° and 50°, east–west orientation works best for winter-focused crops; north–south works best for year-round usage.
Sunlight is the most important energy source for any greenhouse. To ensure maximum exposure:
Avoid shade from trees, buildings, or nearby structures
Ensure at least 6–8 hours of full sunlight per day
Check seasonal sun angles with solar maps or sun-tracking tools
Tip: In colder climates, place the greenhouse where it gets early morning sun, helping plants warm up faster.
Wind can damage structures, cause heat loss, and stress plants. To mitigate this:
Use natural windbreaks like trees or hedges (planted 10–15m away)
Install artificial windbreaks like fences or berms
Align the greenhouse so the narrow ends face prevailing winds
Well-placed windbreaks can reduce wind speed by up to 50%, significantly improving temperature stability inside the greenhouse.
Flat, well-drained land is ideal. Avoid:
Low-lying areas prone to flooding
Steep slopes (these complicate construction and drainage)
Rocky or uneven ground
If the terrain has a gentle slope, place the greenhouse so the ridge runs across the slope—not uphill/downhill—to prevent water pooling and soil erosion.
Efficient water management begins with proper placement.
Ensure the ground slopes slightly away from the greenhouse to prevent water logging
Plan for gutters and drainage channels
Choose a location near your water source (for irrigation or misting systems)
Poor drainage increases disease risk and root rot. Site preparation is a key step to avoid future problems.
Consider access for:
Electricity and heating (especially for climate-controlled systems)
Machinery and vehicle movement (trucks, forklifts, etc.)
Workers and staff safety
If you’re running a commercial or industrial-sized greenhouse, also think about:
Road access for loading and delivery
Proximity to packing or storage facilities
Study your local climate data (temperature, rainfall, wind patterns). Also observe microclimates—small areas with slightly different conditions (warmer near buildings, cooler near water bodies).
Customizing placement based on local climate can:
Reduce heating/cooling loads
Improve crop scheduling
Minimize risks from weather extremes
Before installation:
Check local zoning laws and building permits
Ensure compliance with environmental regulations for runoff and emissions
Consult with engineers or local agriculture authorities if necessary
International clients should ensure their installation complies with national agricultural infrastructure codes.
Here’s a summary of factors to double-check before building:
| Placement Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Orientation | Sunlight capture vs even exposure |
| Sunlight access | No shadows or shade structures |
| Wind protection | Natural or artificial windbreaks |
| Terrain | Flat, well-drained soil |
| Water access | Nearby irrigation/water lines |
| Utilities | Power, access roads, logistics |
| Climate | Match to growing goals |
| Legal/zoning | Permits and compliance |
Choosing the right placement for your greenhouse is a foundational step in maximizing crop yields, improving energy efficiency, and reducing operational headaches.
For commercial growers, greenhouse placement isn’t just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. Make it count.
We specialize in commercial greenhouse manufacturing and provide full support for global clients—from design to installation.
Contact us today to find out how we can help place your next greenhouse for success.
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
+86 189 2488 9901 +86 189 2455 5194
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