In 1997, I tried to buy a greenhouse for my wife so that she could grow orchids in the proper environment. Having been raised in Great Britain, (where a greenhouse is a standard part of almost every garden), I started looking to find a U.S. made product similar to the European units but of a higher standard designed to be durable enough to withstand the harsh climates of the U.S.

After going to all the major manufacturers and suppliers to look for a good quality unit that I would be prepared to purchase, I was disappointed. Prices seemed high and the product in most cases seemed no stronger than the European counterparts. As an engineer, this challenged me to think: Could I take my skills and knowledge and design a greenhouse incorporating the best methods and highest quality and thus provide a stronger and more durable unit at a reasonable cost?

I believe that answer is yes.

I went to Europe and purchased a number of the best units available from various manufacturers. I then took the best features from each model and designed a quality unit at an affordable price. The result was the “Devon” Model. These units are all fitted with shatter-resistant polycarbonate twin-wall, which allows for more efficient heating control along with a higher degree of safety, double doors (opening to 47”) and an eave height of 5ft allowing for plenty of room to work without having to stoop. The unit is held together with stainless steel “T” bolts that slide easily into slots in the aluminum frame.

My research and modifications produced a sturdy greenhouse that can withstand the low temperatures and harsh winds of the Midwestern winter and allow for year-round gardening. Rather than charge my customers separately for vital accessories, we include the fan, vent and thermostat as standard on every model.

I, along with Essex Greenhouses, am proud to be a supplier of greenhouses to the everyday gardener. Whether it is tomatoes in the middle of winter or a warm year-round climate for tropical plants that a gardener wants, Essex Greenhouses provides a quality product at a fair price.

The philosophy at Essex Greenhouses is to produce a top quality greenhouse at a fair price. The unit should be able to withstand both wind and snow loads and be constructed for ease of assembly by the customer. The unit should include the essential equipment within the unit price. We start the design by using only the best in materials and to use the expression “off the shelf” would be incorrect for our greenhouses.

Each greenhouse that we sell is custom built. The units are individually inspected and packed for each customer without exception. Essex Greenhouses are NOT a mass produced imported product. If the customer requests a special option on the greenhouse we will pre-assemble the section to make sure all parts are within specification for each order. The greenhouse includes the base frame, which is an integral part of the unit.

We include the air exhaust system. In extreme climates this is a necessity both to help control temperature build-up and provide good air flow for the plants.

The system consists of a shutter fan, a motorized vent (or vents depending on greenhouse size), and a thermostat all parts are top of the line manufactured by Schaefer Ventilation Equipment.

All Greenhouses come with a ten-year warranty on the frame against decline due to faulty workmanship. The polycarbonate also carries a ten-year warranty against yellowing. Schaefer Ventilation products carry a one-year warranty on their equipment.

The bottom line is this: We sell a Greenhouse the same way we like to buy one. There are no hidden costs or pushy salesmen trying to make you spend money on extra features and supplies. There are additional accessories that you may need depending on how you wish to use your greenhouse and the amount of control you need over the internal environment. Necessary equipment for your greenhouse differs greatly from someone growing orchids year round to some one wishing to get a head start on their spring gardening. However, you will never be pushed into buying something you don’t need from us. We respect our customers and know that they are the foundation of this company. For more information call 800.824.3885 or visit http://www.essexgreenhouse.com/.

Sincerely,

Paul Clements
President, Essex Greenhouse

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