Mike Schaul

Challenge – Outgrowing an indoor seed-starting setup
Solution – One GrowSpan Series 2000 Greenhouse
Size – 14’ wide x 24’ long
Application – Seed starting and overwintering plants
Location –  Peosta, IA.

For years, Mike Schaul relied on his basement to start seeds for his garden each spring. While the space got the job done, it eventually became clear that a larger, dedicated growing environment would provide better conditions for both seedlings and overwintering plants.

Looking for a long-term solution, Schaul chose a 14’W x 24’L GrowSpan Series 2000 Commercial Greenhouse. His decision was influenced not only by the quality of the structure, but also by his existing connection to the company.

“I only live about 15 minutes from GrowSpan’s Dyersville location, and we do some recruiting for the company,” said Schaul. “I wanted to reciprocate the business back to GrowSpan.”

Today, the greenhouse serves as the starting point for a wide variety of vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, cabbage and kohlrabi, all grown in soil. During the colder months, it also offers a protected space for overwintering hibiscus plants, allowing Schaul to extend the usefulness of the structure well beyond the traditional growing season.

Moving his operation from the basement into a dedicated greenhouse has also created a healthier environment for young plants. “The greenhouse provides better growing conditions,” Schaul said. “It’s great to have during the cold weather and allows me to get my seeds started earlier.”

In addition to the greenhouse itself, Schaul valued the support he received throughout the purchasing process. “My Greenhouse Specialist was great to work with,” he said.

Now, Schaul enjoys having a dependable growing space throughout the winter and early spring, when outdoor conditions in eastern Iowa are often unpredictable. By maintaining a controlled environment for seed starting and plant protection, his GrowSpan Series 2000 Commercial Greenhouse helps him begin each growing season with healthy, vigorous plants ready for the garden.

To see more of Mike Schaul’s greenhouse project, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ud-YgV19m1Q&pp=0gcJCU8LAYcqIYzv