Growing Spaces Greenhouse FAQ
Clear answers on planning, purchasing, shipping, installation, and year-round growing.
Buying a greenhouse is a meaningful project: site selection, permits, foundation, delivery logistics, and the day-to-day realities of growing through heat, cold, wind, and snow. This FAQ covers the questions we hear most from prospective and new Growing Dome owners, with straightforward guidance based on how our kits are designed and supported. If you don’t see your question here, contact our team and we’ll help you choose the right size and configuration for your climate and goals.
(Last Updated: 2/17/2026)
About Growing Domes
Start here if you’re trying to understand the basics: design, performance, and what’s included in a Growing Dome greenhouse kit. We cover core concepts like passive solar behavior, ventilation, glazing, thermal mass, and what to expect for durability. This section is meant to help you evaluate the “why” before you get into logistics.
We offer six dome greenhouse sizes: 15′, 18′, 22′, 26′, 33′, and 42′ diameter. If you tell us your goals (family food production, seedlings, school program, etc.), we can recommend a size and a bed layout that fits your space and budget.
A standard Growing Dome kit includes the core structure and greenhouse-specific components needed to assemble the dome. Typically included (varies by size/options):
- Pre-cut, pre-drilled labeled components
- Hubs/struts, glazing, door, vents, insulation elements, and electrical components (fans, solar panels, pumps)
- Installation documents and owner resources
Projects also have common separate costs to consider: foundation/site work, interior beds/soil, and shipping/installation services.
With proper assembly and routine maintenance, Growing Domes are built for multi‑decade service. We routinely support owners with replacement parts, re-sealing, and refurbishment of polycarbonate and structural elements as needed. Longevity depends on:
- UV exposure and local weather
- Maintenance (seals/tape, hardware checks, wood care)
- Proper foundation and anchoring
If you’re considering a used dome, contact us—we can help assess what’s needed and support verified secondary owners.
A dome-shaped greenhouse has a few practical advantages:
- Strong geometry for wind/snow
- Even light distribution throughout the day
- Efficient air circulation (fewer hot/cold corners)
- Less exterior surface area per interior volume (efficiency)
Rectangular greenhouses can work well too. The right choice depends on your climate, goals, budget, and visual preferences. Our dome design is optimized around year‑round growing, durability, and pleasant open space.
Our dome greenhouse kits use wood components because wood is stable, repairable, renewable, and performs well across temperature swings. In general:
- Wood has lower thermal expansion than many metals
- It’s easier to service/repair over decades
- The material choice supports a balance of durability and cost
If you’re comparing wood vs. metal for your climate, we can talk through pros/cons (humidity, coastal exposure, maintenance preferences).
The Growing Dome is a passive solar geodesic dome greenhouse: it captures solar gain during the day and uses thermal mass + insulation strategies to reduce temperature swings. What that means in practice:
- Strong, rounded geometry to shed wind and snow
- Insulation where you don’t need light
- Thermal mass (pond) to stabilize temps
- Automated ventilation to prevent overheating
Performance still depends on your climate, site, and operation (venting/shading).
The core dome greenhouse design can operate without grid power, using passive solar principles and (in many builds) solar-powered ventilation. Some owners choose optional electric upgrades for convenience or added control. If you’re aiming for truly off-grid, we’ll help you plan:
- Ventilation strategy
- Water management
- Winter crop expectations
- Any optional electrical add-ons
Many customers use the Growing Dome as a deep-winter greenhouse because the design prioritizes heat retention and temperature stability. Whether you can grow without supplemental heat depends on:
- Your winter lows, wind, and sun exposure
- What you’re trying to grow (greens vs. fruiting crops)
- How you vent, insulate, and manage thermal mass
Our Dome Advisors are available to help you work through a plan for your site and climate.
Each Growing Dome includes an above‑ground pond designed to add thermal mass (temperature stability) and support the dome’s growing ecosystem. The pond size is based on the capacity of water to hold more heat than a volume of air as a percentage of the volume of the dome. Approx. water volumes by size:
- 15′: ~750 gal
- 18′: ~800 gal
- 22′: ~1,150 gal
- 26′: ~1,300 gal
- 33′: ~2,600 gal
- 42′: ~3,200 gal
Tip: We also highly recommend you have a variety of aquatic plants in your above-ground pond to prevent algae and provide nutrients for your fish.
Is a Growing Dome Right for Me?
This section is for the practical pre-purchase questions: space requirements, site selection, HOA/building department considerations, and what tends to surprise first-time buyers. If you’re comparing greenhouse types or wondering whether a dome greenhouse makes sense for your property and budget, these answers should help you self-qualify quickly. When you’re ready, the next step is usually a quote and/or a tour.
A Growing Dome is usually a fit if you want year‑round growing, durability in wind/snow, and you have a site with decent sun. Quick self-check:
- Do you have at least 4–5 hours of winter sun on the site?
- Are you aiming for winter greens or fruiting crops?
- Do you have space for access around the dome and a foundation plan?
- Are HOA/permits needs likely?
If you answer a few basics, we can tell you quickly whether a dome greenhouse makes sense for your goals and region.
Often yes, but you may need check if you need approvals or have enforced limitations. Plan to check:
- HOA / covenant rules (structures, height, setbacks, exterior appearance)
- Local zoning and setback requirements
- Permit requirements (varies by jurisdiction)
We can provide typical language, drawings, and documentation that help with HOA or permitting conversations.
Yes. Growing Domes are used for education, community growing programs, and some commercial applications. What matters most:
- Clear ownership for ongoing care (staff turnover is real)
- A plan for volunteers/maintenance
- Permitting and site accessibility
We’ve helped multiple institutions each year to complete successful Growing Dome projects, reach out to our Growing Dome Advisors to ask questions about the process and options.
Site selection matters more than almost anything. Priorities:
- Winter sun: aim for 4–5+ hours of clear sun (more is better)
- Wind: plan for prevailing winds and access for delivery
- Drainage: keep water away from the foundation
- Summer overheating: afternoon shade (especially west) can help
We can review a few photos or a your address on google maps and give quick feedback.
Start with the diameter + working clearance. Rule of thumb: allow for the dome diameter plus ~3 feet extra, so you have ~18 inches of access space all the way around. Easy layout trick: put a stake in the center and mark a circle using a rope equal to the dome radius (plus clearance). We can also help you compare footprints and pick a size based on what activities are important for you inside the dome.
Permitting varies widely, but we’ve supported many customers through the process. Typical steps:
- You confirm requirements with your local building department
- We provide engineered plans and supporting documentation (once your order/deposit is in place)
- You submit, respond to any local requests, and build to code
We can help you anticipate the usual questions (snow/wind loads, foundations, setbacks, agricultural use).
Growing Domes are used in a wide range of climates; from snowy mountain regions to hot, sunny areas. The key is matching expectations and configuration to your region:
- Winter: light levels and overnight lows drive what you can grow without heat
- Summer: ventilation and shading prevent overheating, in some areas humidity control becomes important
- Wind/snow: site exposure and anchoring matter
Share your location and goals and we’ll talk you through a plan for year-round use.
You have a few options:
- Visit our Pagosa Springs HQ
- Tour a partner/enthusiast dome (by appointment)
- Take a virtual tour online
If you share your region, we can often find one near you and offer some good questions to ask during your visit.
You don’t need to be an expert. Most early success comes from basics:
- Start with easy crops (greens, herbs) before fruiting plants
- Prioritize soil quality and consistent watering
- Learn your dome’s daily temperature cycle
We provide step-by-step guidance, planting resources, and community support so you can ramp up with confidence.
Output depends on a lot of factors, such as your growing plan, climate, and how intensively you garden. Many owners use their dome greenhouse to keep greens, herbs, and seedlings going year‑round—and to extend fruiting crops well beyond the outdoor season. Others target year round fruiting and even farming fish in the pond. Based on our conversations with thousands of Growing Dome owners, we can give you an idea of what others have produced over time.
Pricing and Ordering
This section covers the business side of purchasing a Growing Dome: pricing ranges, available discounts, payment and deposit options, warranty coverage, and key policies like cancellations and changes. We keep this straightforward so you can plan your budget, permitting timeline, and long-term ownership with fewer surprises. If you need a definitive reference, your quote and purchase agreement govern the final terms.
Pricing varies by size and options. As a ballpark, our dome greenhouse kits start at $11,950 and up, depending on diameter and upgrades. As long-term structures made with high-end materials, the cost per year of use can be better than cheaper alternatives.
Additional costs associated with most projects:
For the most accurate number, use the current pricing in the shop or request a quote.
Yes. We use a simple, published discount structure. Common discounts include:
- 6% for qualifying nonprofits/schools/government
- 4% for touring at our Pagosa Springs HQ
- 2% for tours at partner/enthusiast domes
- 2% for people who work in qualifying public service roles
Discount stacking is limited (up to two standard discounts at a time) with a 10% cap. If you qualify for multiple, we’ll apply the best eligible combination. 1% additional savings for cash‑equivalent payment methods is always available
We do not currently offer in-house financing. Many customers use options like savings, a home equity line of credit (HELOC), or other third-party financing that fits their situation. If you’re in the planning phase, we can help you estimate total project costs (kit + shipping + any installation) so you can plan with confidence.
Our payment terms anticipate phased purchases:
- 10% refundable deposit to lock in pricing while you pursue permits/approvals (then an additional 40% production deposit to enter the manufacturing queue)
- 50% deposit to begin manufacturing right away
Institutional purchasers check with our Growing Dome Advisors about utilizing a Purchase Order instead of a deposit. The remaining balance is typically due about a week before shipment. Payment methods include card and bank-type payments; cash‑equivalent payments may qualify for a small discount. Find more extensive details on our terms of service page or in a copy of the purchase agreement.
Summary of warranty coverage:
- 5-year structural warranty on struts, hubs, and the foundation stem wall if your kit includes one (ICF wall configurations do not need the stem wall).
- Polycarbonate glazing carries a manufacturer pro‑rated warranty against hail damage and yellowing (10 years)
- Other components are covered by their manufacturers’ warranties (passed through)
*Foundation/site work is not offered by Growing Spaces directly, and not covered by the warranty. Practical notes:
- Keep component paperwork/serial numbers; some components require registration
- Warranty claims may require photos and a brief description of the issue
- Modifications or non‑greenhouse use can void coverage
For full terms, refer our terms of service, current purchase agreement, or Owner’s Manual.
If you cancel an order, a restocking/processing fee applies. Timing matters:
- Cancellations are subject to a 5% restocking/processing fee.
- If cancelled within 20 business days of the scheduled shipment date, an additional 5% may apply (total 10%).
- Custom orders (non-standard structural design/size/component substitutions) may not be cancellable.
If you’re uncertain, ask before placing a production deposit so we can talk through your timeline and options. We prefer not to use the cancelation fees, so give us a call to let us know what’s happening.
Yes. We stock common maintenance parts and many upgrades in our online shop. We also can quote other less common components or parts that aren’t listed in the shop. If you’re unsure what you need, contact our support team so they can help identify the right part and provide guidance for installation.
The Growing Spaces Greenhouses are thoughtfully designed for passive and natural-first temperature regulation. In some seasons or climates, additional active heating or cooling may be necessary depending on your growing goals. Heating needs depend on:
- Winter lows, wind, and sun exposure
- Crop choice (greens vs. tomatoes/peppers)
- Your insulation/thermal mass setup and venting habits
If you tell us your location and what you want to grow, we can recommend a realistic winter strategy (including when supplemental heat makes sense).
Getting the Dome to Me
Shipping a greenhouse kit isn’t like ordering a small parcel. Here we explain what arrives, how freight delivery typically works, what you’ll need for access/offloading, and what to do if something shows up damaged. This section is designed to reduce avoidable surprises and protect your timeline.
These FAQs are a great place to explore. As is our buyers guide.
If you like the direct path:
- Review sizes and options
- Confirm your site (sun, access, space)
- Request a quote (we’ll confirm shipping, permitting docs, and next steps)
- Place an order when you’re ready
If you prefer to talk it through, our team has worked with thousands of people to get exactly what they want. No one gets paid by commission, and we pride ourselves on being a resource before, during, and after purchase. Reach out for help any time.
Phone: 800‑753‑9333 or 970‑731‑2120 Email: info@growingspaces.com (general) | support@growingspaces.com (technical) Or utilize our contact us page.
Yes, some “owner supplied” items are sourced locally because they’re bulky and cheaper to buy nearby. Common examples:
- Foundation/site materials (varies)
- Gravel, rebar/anchors (depending on foundation type)
- Sheet metal (often from HVAC/sheet metal suppliers)
- Basic tools and consumables
We provide an owner-supplied checklist so you can price and source locally before your kit arrives.
Lead times vary by season and production schedule. As a general guideline, kit lead times are often in the 3–6 week range once your order is scheduled for production and shipment (deposit received). Spring is our busiest time of the year. Installation packages sell out in most years and may have a different lead time. We fill up the installation schedule by first come first served. We’ll confirm a more specific delivery and/or installation window during quoting and again when your order is assigned a shipment date.
We offer freight shipping, or local delivery/pickup. What to expect:
- Typical lead times vary by season (often ~3–6 weeks once scheduled)
- Most domes arrive in 2–4 crates and pallets depending on size
- Delivery is usually by full-size tractor trailer or large box truck so you’d need to plan access, clearances, and unloading
- Inspect for damage while the carrier is on site and notify us immediately if anything is wrong
We’ll confirm your ship date, tracking, and any special access needs during quoting. More details can be found on our shipping and delivery page.
We ship Growing Dome kits throughout the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska, and can coordinate international shipments. Freight costs, carrier options, and import requirements vary by destination. Tell us your delivery location and we’ll confirm what’s possible and provide a shipping estimate. See our shipping and delivery page for more details, or give us a call/email.
Installing the Growing Dome
Installation goes smoothly when the site and foundation are planned correctly. This section covers foundation options, owner-supplied items, general tool/crew expectations, and the different ways customers build (DIY, supervisor support, or full crew installation). If you’re trying to plan your build schedule, start here and then jump to the specific questions about your dome size.
We provide detailed step-by-step instructions, and you have three common paths:
- DIY: you assemble with your own crew using our instructions + remote support from our team
- Guided install: a Growing Spaces supervisor guides your crew on-site
- Full install: a Growing Spaces crew assembles the dome entirely
Timing varies by dome size, site readiness, and crew size. We’ll recommend the best path based on your schedule, budget, and comfort level.
We offer multiple installation service levels depending on your budget, region, and crew availability:
- Full crew installation
- Supervisor-only (your helpers do the work with expert guidance)
- Supervisor +1 (a hybrid option)
Installation typically covers assembling the dome structure and standard components. With the full crew installation packages, we guarantee a completed build. Site prep, foundations, utilities are not currently offered directly from Growing Spaces, and interior beds installation can be added at additional cost.
Yes. Many customers work with local contractors for foundations or site work, and some for assembly. We provide:
- Documentation and technical support
- Clear scope boundaries (what’s included in the kit vs. site work)
- Guidance to reduce common build errors
Warranty coverage depends on proper installation and maintenance, so we encourage your installer to review our owner documents and reach out with questions. Often our installation packages, even though they include travel costs, are competitive because our experienced teams can complete projects more quickly.
The Growing Dome ships as a pre‑cut, pre‑drilled kit ready for assembly. You’ll get:
- Detailed Instructions and access to guide videos
- Labeled or color-coded components
- Support from our team via email or phone if you get stuck
You can DIY with a capable crew, hire local help, or use our installation services.
Yes. We provide technical support during planning, build, and ongoing ownership. Phone: 800‑753‑9333 | Email: support@growingspaces.com
You’ll need a level, stable base—and the “right” foundation depends on your soil, frost depth, and local code. We have engineering plans for the options below. Common approaches include:
- Compacted gravel ring + foundation wall (common for smaller domes)
- Concrete piers or perimeter foundations (common for larger domes)
- Insulated options in colder climates
We’ll help you choose a foundation approach that fits your site and permitting needs.
Maybe. Permit requirements vary by jurisdiction. Common factors:
- Structure size and location (setbacks)
- Foundation type and frost depth
- Wind/snow load requirements
- Whether your area treats greenhouses as accessory/ag structures
We can provide engineered plans and documentation commonly requested by building departments, but your local authority is the final word.
Most owners build raised beds that match their gardening goals and accessibility needs. Common design principles:
- Keep bed widths reachable from both sides
- Leave comfortable paths to the pond and door
- Plan for compost/worm bin or soil storage if you want it
We can share example layouts by dome size (and what tends to work best for mobility and maintenance).
Growing Inside a Dome
These are the “living with it” questions: summer heat management, winter growing, pests and pollination, and how the above-ground pond supports the internal environment. We keep this guidance practical and grounded in what owners do successfully in different climates. If you’re new to greenhouse gardening, this is the best section to read first.
You can grow most of what you’d grow outdoors—plus extend the season. Typical patterns:
- Summer: tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, basil, flowers, fruits
- Winter: lettuce, spinach, kale, herbs, peas, many root vegetables
We have a video playlist of planting tips on our Youtube channel. Our newsletter and blog provide gardening advice on everything from selecting the best plants for your greenhouse to pest control and tested permaculture practices.
Like any long-life greenhouse, maintenance is mostly simple but important:
- Regular checks of vents, seals, and hardware
- Seasonal cleaning and pest/disease prevention
- Periodic re-sealing/re-taping and component replacement as wear items age
We provide maintenance guidance and replacement parts to keep the dome performing for decades.
Not always. Many owners run their dome greenhouse primarily with passive solar principles and simple ventilation. There are solar and electrical options available for most components. The size of your dome kit will determine whether solar or electric components come standard. If your goal is off-grid, we’ll help you choose a configuration that matches your climate and what you plan to grow.
Planting schedules in a dome greenhouse depend on your climate zone and your winter light levels. A practical approach:
- Winter: focus on cold‑tolerant greens and root crops
- Shoulder seasons: seedlings + transition crops
- Summer: fruiting crops (tomatoes/peppers/cucumbers)
We provide planting schedules, and our newsletter and blog provide more detailed planting information to help with common challenges.
It depends on bed design and bed height, but these averages help you plan:
- 15′: ~6 yd³
- 18′: ~9 yd³
- 22′: ~16 yd³
- 26′: ~22 yd³
- 33′: ~30 yd³
- 42′: ~45 yd³
Plan to improve soil over time with compost and organic matter rather than trying to “buy perfect soil” once. However, we are fans of Paonia soil for our own beds.
Aim for a living, well‑draining soil that holds moisture without staying soggy. A good starting mix often includes:
- Quality topsoil or compost-based blend
- Aeration (pumice/perlite/sand depending on your local materials)
- Ongoing organic matter (compost, mulches)
Soil is a long-term project—healthy biology builds over seasons. We can share mixes that work well in domes and how to maintain them. We like Paonia soil ourselves.
Pollinators typically enter through doors and vent openings. You can improve pollination by:
- Planting pollinator-friendly flowers near entrances
- Opening up during peak pollinator hours (when temps allow)
- Hand pollinating crops like tomatoes for reliability
In some climates, adding a dedicated screened opening can help keep airflow while encouraging pollinators.
Integrated pest management works well in greenhouses. Core approach:
- Prevent: maintain healthy soil, airflow, and remove diseased plant material
- Monitor: sticky traps and regular scouting
- Respond: targeted, mechanical or low-tox options (/soap/oils/beneficials) before problems explode
Introducing other beneficial insects like ladybeetles, mantids, and lacewings are also great ways to get organic pest control.
If you tell us the pest and the plant giving you trouble, we can point you to proven organic options.
Prevention is the name of the game. Reduce mold/mildew by:
- Increasing airflow (vents + fans)
- Avoiding wet foliage overnight
- Managing condensation and humidity
- Removing infected leaves promptly
Yes, many owners keep fish in the pond as part of the dome ecosystem. Common choices:
- Hardy, low‑maintenance: goldfish, koi
- Edible fish can be possible (e.g., tilapia) but usually requires tighter temperature and oxygen control
Always check local regulations and plan for water quality (plants + filtration + feeding discipline).
Winter success is mainly about light + temperature stability. The dome greenhouse supports winter growing by:
- Capturing solar heat during the day
- Using thermal mass and insulation strategies to reduce overnight swings
- Managing humidity and airflow to prevent disease
What you can grow without heat depends on your climate and what you want to grow. Many owners grow greens in winter; fruiting crops typically need supplemental heat.
Potentially. But the Growing Dome is designed with heat management in mind. The greenhouse integrates airflow, light diffusion, and thermal mass to reduce heat stress naturally. Best practices:
- Vent early on sunny days (before it spikes)
- Use shade cloth as needed
- Keep air moving (fans/vents)
- Water management to support evaporative cooling
- In the hottest regions, supplemental cooling may be useful
We can recommend a summer cooling setup based on your hottest months and typical humidity
