I’d like to grow some subtropical fruits but I’m in central Maryland, USA

[Guest]

We have subtropic summers and chilly temperate winters. Summers are good for them but winters will kill them. What options for a hothouse do I have up here if I’m not a bajillionaire? I’d like to heat as passive as possible and overall as low cost as possible. So, I’m willing to do the diy and take my time. What suggestions can you all make?

[Dallas]

If esthetics aren't important to you look into passive solar greenhouses/ walipini. Heating fuel is going to depend on what is cheapest in your area.

[Jeremy]

That’s pretty open ended.

We have a walipini, and hands down the best way to stay over freezing all the time is going below ground level. Your available build areas will determine how difficult going below can be.

Having done it, it’s a ton of work.

Next best thing is South facing glazing and well insulated on North ceiling and wall. Also both the E & W walls should be mostly glazed. I just described what Scott already recommended;)

[Adam]

We also live in Maryland and grow tropicals in our greenhouse. We have a large greenhouse with high ceilings. We are not rich. I spend about $800 heating it each year. This isn't bad if you plan during the year. I have two propane heaters that keep it above 50. Also, we use black rain barrels to help. And the glazing you use is important. We went with thicker, triple wall polycarbonate. Insulate where you can.

[Heidi]

With a greenhouse: Meyers lemon, Hardy Kiwi, Hardy Fig, Calamonsi orange, Finger limes, passion fruit,