Shelby Lucero
Marketing Manager
Growing Spaces
I graduated from Fort Lewis College in 2018 with a BA in Environmental Studies. I began working for Growing Spaces in August of 2020 and have had the pleasure of working in many departments. I enjoy being a part of this amazing team that helps others achieve their dream gardens! In my spare time, I enjoy working in the 15’ Growing Dome that my husband and I share.
Articles by Shelby Lucero
How the Growzebo™ Came to Life
September 11, 2026
The Growzebo™ was created from decades of greenhouse experience, years of customer feedback, and one simple question: how can we help more people grow? Go behind the scenes with the Growing Spaces team to see how this new greenhouse came to life.
How to Grow Food Year-Round Without Spending a Fortune on Greenhouse Heating
August 21, 2026
Learn how to grow food year-round without relying entirely on expensive greenhouse heat. This guide covers thermal mass, heat loss, winter sunlight, microclimates, crop selection, ventilation, and strategic supplemental heating, with practical tips for any greenhouse and examples of how we apply those principles in a Growing Dome.
Greenhouse Microclimates: How Growing Zones Affect Plant Growth
July 17, 2026
Every greenhouse contains multiple microclimates shaped by sunlight, airflow, humidity, thermal mass, plant density, and greenhouse size. Learn how these growing zones develop, how they differ inside a Growing Dome, and how to use them to place plants more intentionally.
The Best Greenhouse for Hail
June 5, 2026
Choosing the best greenhouse for hail starts with the right covering and design. Learn how Growing Domes combine multiwall polycarbonate glazing, geodesic strength, and real-weather performance.
How Hillside Gardens Turned a 33' Growing Dome Greenhouse Into an Event Space
May 12, 2026
At Hillside Gardens, a 33' Growing Dome does more than grow plants. By day, it serves as an indoor plant market. By night, it transforms into Cactus Jack’s, a greenhouse tequila bar for weddings, concerts, and private events. This Colorado Springs venue shows how a Growing Dome can support retail, hospitality, guest experience, and year-round business growth from one flexible structure.
What Is a Cold Frame? How to Use It to Grow More Food at Home
April 28, 2026
A cold frame is one of the simplest ways to start growing your own food with confidence. By creating a protected, temperature-buffered environment, it helps extend your growing season, reduce plant stress, and make gardening more predictable—whether you're working with a small space or supplementing a larger garden
Do you Need Fertilizer in a Greenhouse?
April 20, 2026
Fertilizing in a greenhouse isn’t the same as outdoors. Discover how nutrients behave differently and when plants actually need support.
Vertical Gardening and Forest Garden Design for a Thriving Food Forest
February 19, 2026
Understand how vertical gardening and the idea of a forest garden transform a Growing Dome into a layered, year-round food forest.
Best Greenhouse for Wind
February 17, 2026
What’s the best greenhouse for wind? Explore how shape, materials, and wind load physics make dome greenhouses more resistant in high-wind climates.
The Truth About Growing Dome Installation Options
January 26, 2026
Learn the real differences between Growing Dome installation options and choose the build path that fits your skills, comfort level, and budget.
Backyard Greenhouse Planning: From Meadow to Sanctuary
January 21, 2026
See how thoughtful planning and site preparation helped Wanda and Angelo create a thriving 18’ Growing Dome backyard greenhouse sanctuary.
Fire Cider Recipe: A Seasonal Tonic You Can Make at Home
December 19, 2025
A flexible fire cider recipe inspired by family tradition. Made with fresh roots and pantry staples to support seasonal resilience.
Growing Tropical Plants in a Greenhouse Where Snow and Desert Meet
December 19, 2025
Growing tropical plants in a greenhouse is possible in the high desert. See how one grower creates year-round abundance.
How to Grow Your Community Garden with a Successful Garden Fundraiser
October 24, 2025
Learn how to plan and run a successful garden fundraiser for your community garden. Discover inspiring examples from Pagosa Springs, Durango, and South Bend and practical ways to grow support through education and creativity.
Greenhouse Automation: Freedom & Food Security in a Dome
October 20, 2025
Explore how Steve’s Growing Dome uses greenhouse automation to manage water, climate, and pests while providing reliable food security and freedom.
Thermal Mass Made Simple: A Warmer, Greener Greenhouse
September 24, 2025
Learn how thermal mass in a Growing Dome pond stores solar energy, reduces heating needs, and keeps your greenhouse warm through cold winter nights.
The Art of Seed Saving
August 12, 2025
Discover seed saving techniques to preserve greenhouse-grown heirlooms and open-pollinated plants, ensuring stronger harvests season after season.
Grow Smarter: How to Biohack Your Greenhouse
July 28, 2025
Explore how to biohack your greenhouse using structured water, electroculture, and natural systems to grow more vibrant, nutrient-rich, high-energy food.
Thriving Tropical Forest Garden in a Washington Greenhouse
July 2, 2025
Discover a lush forest garden in a Washington greenhouse by Newman Lake, where tropical plants thrive in a Growing Dome year-round.
How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats in Your Greenhouse
June 20, 2025
Learn how to eliminate and prevent fungus gnats in your greenhouse using organic methods, biological controls, and IPM strategies for healthy plant growth.
Hands-On Discovery in the SOIL Lab Growing Dome
May 27, 2025
Students explore the SOIL Lab’s Growing Dome, tasting plants, learning about ecosystems, and experiencing hands-on lessons in a living outdoor classroom.
Propagation Techniques for Prolific Plants
March 20, 2025
Propagation is a great way to save money, preserve heirloom varieties, and keep a succession of plants growing throughout the year. Learn more about different methods of plant propagation.
Valuable Lessons Learned from an Otherworldly Texas Greenhouse
February 25, 2025
In windy West Texas, Kurt and Paula’s Growing Dome, nicknamed "The Hab," thrives with citrus, figs, and olives despite the dry arid climate outside.
Natural Greenhouse Soil Rejuvenation with Mushrooms for Healthier Crops
February 20, 2025
Learn how mushrooms help with greenhouse soil rejuvenation, improve fertility, moisture retention, and enhance plant health for sustainable growing.
How to Start an Agribusiness with a Greenhouse
January 16, 2025
Learn how to start an agribusiness with a Growing Dome greenhouse. Discover sustainable solutions, high-value crops, and strategies to maximize year-round profits.
Managing Winter Humidity in a Greenhouse
December 17, 2024
Manage winter humidity in your greenhouse with tips on ventilation, water usage, heating, and disease prevention for healthy, year-round plant growth.
What Is The Best Automated Greenhouse Irrigation System?
October 30, 2024
In this guide, we’ll explore both ancient and modern irrigation techniques to help you find the best automated greenhouse irrigation system for your needs.
Heartwood Cohousing: A Thriving Sanctuary of Community and Sustainability
October 4, 2024
In a world where community connection and sustainability are more important than ever, a unique model of living is emerging. Modern developments maximize privacy but often lack a sense of community. Cohousing is not a new concept, originating in Denmark in the 1970s, it aims to create a place where community, sustainability, and love for…
Innovative Aquaponics at SFCC: Transformative Learning in a 26’ Dome
September 6, 2024
At Santa Fe Community College a 26’ Growing Dome greenhouse is an integral part of their course offerings. This state-of-the-art facility isn’t just a greenhouse; it’s a living laboratory powered by aquaponics, where students dive deep into the future of agriculture and environmental stewardship. Aquaponics in a Growing Dome The Growing Dome greenhouse creates a…
A Beginners Guide to Greenhouse Aquaponics
August 21, 2024
Aquaponics is a growing method that combines aquaculture and hydroponics. Aquaculture is the process of raising fish and hydroponics is a soilless growing method. In short, aquaponics uses the wastewater created by fish in an aquaculture system as fertilizer for hydroponically grown produce in a recirculating system. This type of system allows you to reduce…
Ultimate Guide to Organic Integrated Pest Management: Strategies for a Healthier Garden
August 2, 2024
“Pests” are part of the natural ecosystem. Getting rid of them is an impossible feat, but managing them will help keep populations at tolerable levels for both the plants and the people who enjoy the plants. There are a few basic ways to tackle pest management, but an integrated approach will be the most effective….
Top 10 Activities, Attractions, and Dining in Pagosa Springs
July 25, 2024
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Pagosa Springs is an ideal destination to experience the wonders of nature and warm small-town hospitality.
Rio Grande Hospital Wellness Center: Find Your Best You
July 2, 2024
Experience empowerment and inspiration at the Rio Grande Hospital Wellness Center — a community hub for vibrant health and longevity.
Is Straw Bale Gardening the Best Gardening Method?
May 29, 2024
Creating a backyard garden is an exciting and fulfilling adventure, but filling raised garden beds can become expensive. Luckily there are a few types of gardening that will not only help to reduce costs but improve the quality of the soil over time!
The Best Vegan Taco Meat
May 2, 2024
The best vegan taco meat starts with whole grains and fresh vegetables. Eat the rainbow with this whole food plant- based recipe. Many of these ingredients can be grown right in your own backyard!
Urban Agriculture Takes Root in Omaha with City Sprouts
May 1, 2024
When you envision Omaha, Nebraska you might think of Lewis and Clark or world-renowned steaks. It might surprise you with its growing urban agriculture movement and the world’s largest indoor desert housed within the world’s largest glazed geodesic dome. That is not the only dome in Omaha, however. Tucked into a residential neighborhood on an…
Floating Gardens: The Sustainable Food Production Secret of the Ancients
May 1, 2024
This innovative farming technique, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, has supported thriving civilizations for centuries.
Decadent Dairy Free Avocado Ice Cream
April 4, 2024
This dairy-free avocado ice cream is sure to satisfy your craving without the guilt! Rich coconut milk and ripe avocados create a delectable guilt free dessert.
Modern Homesteading Conference 2024
March 20, 2024
Growing Spaces is excited to be participating in the Modern Homesteading Conference in Coeur D’alene, ID June 28 & 29th, 2024. Come find us in the “Midway” to learn more about the wonderful world of Growing Domes, and how you can create a more sustainable lifestyle by growing your own food all year long with…
Top 10 Gardening Books for Beginners, Experts, and Everyone in Between
March 16, 2024
Gardening books are a great resource for beginners and an amazing way to expand your knowledge even if you are a seasoned pro. We have put together a list of some of our favorite gardening books just for you.
A Unique Spin on a Mediterranean Classic: Borage Tzatziki and Gluten-Free Falafel
March 5, 2024
A unique spin on a Mediterranean classic. Borage tastes like cucumbers and adds beautiful color. Perfect for those looking for healthy meatless meal options! Serves: 8-10 Prep Time: 25 hours Cook Time: 15 minutes
Keeping Chickens in a Greenhouse: A Balanced Look at This Unique Combination
March 5, 2024
Calling all modern homesteaders, backyard gardeners, and chicken lovers! Can these fluffy dinosaurs help us in the garden or should we leave them in the coop?
Plug In or Power Up? Unveiling the Secrets of On-Grid and Off-Grid Greenhouse Options
January 2, 2024
Our company, Growing Spaces, began as a 100% off-grid greenhouse company with emphasis on helping people live a more sustainable, healthy lifestyle. While the driving force behind what we do has not changed, i.e. we are still here to help you take the steps to live a more sustainable and healthy life. We have realized…
As Seen on HGTV
December 15, 2023
Growing Dome Featured on HGTV! Building Roots Season 2 Episode 1 Dome Sweet Dome. – A couple’s unique, circular home boasts 360-degree windows with stunning wraparound mountain views…and a Grow Dome greenhouse garden! However, the property lacks function and style. Watch as Ben and Cristi Dozier from Roots Design Company completely renovate the home, landscaping, and greenhouse…
A Year Round Growing Dome Greenhouse, How Does it Work?
December 1, 2023
The technologies behind what make our product one of the best greenhouse options on the market are not rocket science. They are Dome science! You might already be familiar with our seven features, but if not we are going to get down to the basics so that you can understand how they work and why they make the Growing Dome Greenhouse the best greenhouse option for you!
How to Support A Local Food Bank During the Holiday Season
December 1, 2023
Here you will find a list of plants to grow for food bank donation and how to find a local food bank to donate to during the holiday season.
The Ultimate Roasted Green Chili Corn Cakes with Fresh Corn Salsa
September 4, 2023
A sweet and spicy roasted green chili corn cake topped with fresh corn salsa is the perfect way to kick off the start of fall.
Inspiring Stories from Community Gardens in Southwest Colorado
July 6, 2023
Growing Spaces Growing Domes aren’t just for backyard gardeners. Communities around the country are using Growing Domes to nurture their communities from the ground up! The video below showcases three organizations in southwest Colorado that are supporting various populations with these greenhouses: Pagosa Springs High School, the Geothermal Greenhouse Partnership, and San Juan Basin Area…
The Best Nasturtium Pesto Flatbread Pizza
July 5, 2023
We took inspiration from a dish that Angela Pferdt (@Santa_Woodz) made us during our visit. Here we have turned these mildly spicy flowers into pesto flatbreads, but the nasturtium pesto makes a great addition to pasta, salads, sandwiches, and so much more! Nasturtiums are a great plant to grow in your Growing Dome greenhouse. They…
Greenhouse Gardening: Watering Best Practices For Optimal Growth
June 5, 2023
Enhance your gardening skills by improving plant health and productivity with these watering best practices.
How to Make the Best Calendula Lotion Recipe and Bug Repellent Salve
May 9, 2023
Calendula is an amazing herbal medicine that has been used for centuries. From skin healing salves and lotions to tinctures and teas this plant will quickly become a staple on your modern homestead. Plus it is easy to grow and simple to turn into everyday items! From how to make calendula oil, to making this…
Modern Homestead on the California Coast: Survival and Serenity
May 9, 2023
Over the hills and through the woods to a modern homestead we go! Taking winding HWY 17 through the Santa Cruz mountains showed just how extreme the weather can be right along the California coast. Crews were still cleaning up downed trees and evidence of the atmospheric river that poured through the region a few…
Water and the West: What Can We Do?
March 6, 2023
Without water, the west has a number of problems. We need to be thinking about the “new normal”, the best ways that we can conserve water, and how we can stabilize our own food systems. Our proposed solution is to go back to our roots, bring back the kitchen garden, and fight food insecurity in our own backyards.
This Is Not Your Average Joe’s Backyard Greenhouse
March 5, 2023
Nestled in a canyon just south of Pagosa Springs along the Blanco River sits the quaint little cabin of Joe and Nancy Drake. Not far from their cabin, right in their backyard, a 22’ Growing Dome stands full of life. A welcome contrast amid the stark white blanket of snow.
How to Make Kale Taste Good: Colcannon and Kale Chips
March 2, 2023
If you are like me and do not love the taste of kale, it is a great veggie to mix into other dishes that you normally eat. Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish that combines kale with, my favorite vegetable, potatoes! While Nancy’s kale chips are extremely simple to make and satisfy the need for a crunch.
How to Keep a Greenhouse Warm
January 7, 2023
An arctic blast swept through the northern half of our continent just before Christmas. On our Facebook groups we saw reports of temperatures as low as -21F in the US, and even colder in Canada. Despite these frigid temperatures, Dome Owners were still able to keep their plants alive and thriving by adding a bit of supplemental heat. Even if the temperature drops below freezing in the Dome, hardy plants will survive and perk back up as the sun hits them the following day.
2022 Year in Review
December 14, 2022
2022 is quickly coming to an end and we wanted to take some time to reflect on how we have grown. This year was filled with twists and turns that both grounded us and propelled us into action. Giving back to our community and getting involved is something that we felt was desperately needed after the two years of isolation we all endured.
Sunchoke Chips with Rosemary and Roasted Garlic Dip
December 14, 2022
Looking for a crowd pleasing unique appetizer for your holiday party? This rosemary and roasted garlic dip is sure to impress!
Vibrant Pesto Caprese Chicken
November 16, 2022
Basil Plant looking a bit sad in the cooler temperatures? This quick pesto is a great way to use it before it is too late!