Frequently Asked Questions

How many Growing Domes are there?

We at Growing Spaces have been building and supplying Dome Green House Kits since 1989. We now have them in 45 States including Alaska and Hawaii and now our international outreach is to 10 countries. Stay posted for further development.

United States:

Other Countries:

Why the dome shape?

A great question! Several reasons: the shape is both functional and beautiful; it encloses the maximum volume for the least amount of material, creating optimum energy efficiency; it handles wind and snow loads effortlessly. It gives a much more even heat input throughout the day than a rectangular greenhouse, and its global shape symbolizes caring for the planet we live on.

Can it really grow food year around?

Most emphatically yes! The dome has two seasons: hot and cool. In the summer it grows all the heat-loving plants: tomatoes, pepper, eggplant, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, etc.

In the winter it grows the hardier cool weather crops: lettuce, spinach, swiss chard, peas, beets, kale, all the cabbage family, leeks, all of the onion family, and lots of other greens and herbs. During severe cold spells, growth slows and may even stop - the dome can freeze - but as soon as the sun shines again, growth continues. The unique combination of special features of the Growing Dome allow for year round gardening producing fresh vegetable, fruits, and flowers every day of of the year!

Why does it have a water tank?

The tank is the POWER PACK of the dome. In winter it soaks up the heat of the sun by day and releases it at night, moderating nighttime temperatures. In the summer it acts as a cooling mass, preventing the dome from overheating. It can be used as a water garden to grow aquatic plants, and an indoor pond for growing fish. Some owners have installed fountains or used it as a giant potting bench.

How much food can it grow?

Depending on your gardening skills and soil fertility, you can figure about 2.5 pounds per square foot per year. Thus, a 22 foot diameter dome (350 square feet) can produce over 800 pounds of veggies per year. The average American consumes about 200 pounds of vegetables per year. Most people supplement the dome with an outdoor garden.

Will it ever freeze?

Yes, the dome can freeze during extended, severe cold with little sun. Some people provide supplemental heat; even a tiny heater works well as the dome is so well insulated. However, most cold-hardy plants will continue to grow once the sun shines again. See our suggestions for solar greenhouse site selection, to optimize the energy efficiency of your Growing Dome.

Is it a lot of work?

The main work is picking all of the wonderful produce! Most find on average that they spend 4 hours per week in their dome. It's not a chore, though, as the dome is such an attractive place to be. The problem is keeping away from it! The automatic vents mean no worries about overheating, or coming home late on a frosty night forgetting that you left the window open!

What about building permits?

The dome is regarded as a temporary structure by some building departments, as it does not have a foundation and can be easily disassembled. Yes, even if you move you can take your dome with you! Click here for answers to questions often asked by local building departments, officials, homeowners associations, etc.

Does it need a concrete foundation?

No, the dome is so light it can sit on a gravel foundation. It needs to be anchored down, however, which can easily be done with supplies from your local building materials supplier. We have prepared a short discussion of foundation options detailing the range of foundations used with our Growing Dome Greenhouses.

Is everything included in the cost of the dome?

The dome comes as a kit, designed to be owner-installed. Growing Spaces can provide a skilled crew to put up your dome. The items not included are the undersoil heating ducts, perimeter insulation, and the water tank, as these are bulky and expensive to ship. All are available inexpensively at your local building supplies business. We provide a detailed list of these items when you order your dome.

Are pests and disease a problem?

Every greenhouse is a wonderful place to be, and that means for insects as well. We recommend organic methods of biological pest control. There are many excellent books on this subject. We recommend the book Greenhouse Gardening Companion by Shane Smith, we can also advise you on some of the most common solutions. Vigilance and cleanliness are the two best weapons, however.

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Please send questions to: info@growingspaces.com / P.O. Box 5518 / 1868 B Majestic Dr. / Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
1-800-753-9333