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Performance parameters A shadehouse is a purpose built structure in which to create optimum conditions for certain stages of plant growth. In commercial nurseries the stages of plant growth are accommodated in a range of structures that increasingly expose the seedlings to outdoor conditions, starting in a glasshouse or, more commonly, a 'poly-tunnel', to shaded structures, to a 'stand-out' area in full sun for final 'hardening off'. |
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| • The most important requirement is a reliable supply of water, delivered as a fine mist or spray (See Irrigation System Specifications, also 'Watering' from Instruction Manual ). A programmable, automatic timer is a tremendous advantage, especially over weekends and holidays, as even one day without water can significantly reduce germination. The timer should be secured within the shadehouse or in some kind of housing to prevent interference with the settings, or theft. |  |
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• The irrigation system should be permanently attached to a water supply. If you need to be fiddling about with connecting hoses, this will act as a disincentive to watering as frequently as needed. |
• Shade from the drying rays of the sun is essential at germination stage. 50% shadecloth is suitable and allows enough light for the seedlings to grow-on strongly until ready to harden off. If the shade is too dense, e.g. from a higher percentage shadecloth, or shadows from a nearby building, the seedlings will become etolated, or long and straggly, as they grow tall in search of light.
• Shelter from strong winds is also an advantage. Wind can burn the tender young leaves and quickly dry out the potting mix, requiring more irrigation than otherwise necessary. Well fitted shadecloth over the whole structure will exclude wind as well as providing shade
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• Security is vital in a school or any publicly accessible site. The structure must be securable and strong enough to resist attempts to break and enter, or knock down. (See Shadehouse Component Specifications). Security fences around the structure rarely provide much deterrence to determined vandals, greatest protection is provided by a secure, strongly built shadehouse structure. • Some kind of all weather flooring is important for your comfort and the seedling's health. You will need to visit the shadehouse in all sorts of weather, as well as the irrigation of the seedlings resulting in water on the floor. A concrete slab is great, but materials such as gravel, roadbase, blue metal, bark or woodchip mulch are also very serviceable. • Benches on which to sit the tubes (either in boxes, or directly onto the shelf) should be at a height appropriate to the users. For young children set the bench no higher than 750mm above ground level, 900 -1000mm is suitable for adults. |
Shadehouse Component Specifications: This material is galvanized inside and out for extra durability. Other types, for example, 'Gal. tube plus' is not galvanized inside and is less durable. For a list of materials to build a shadehouse similar to the Trees for 2000 kit, see 'Packing List'. These materials can be purchased in NSW through Protective Fencing Pty Ltd on (02) 4324 7144, Fax: (02) 4323 7899. They will quote (at wholesale price) for supply on application. |
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