One Year Later: Growing at Oglesby Gardens with a Yoderbilt Greenhouse
Big news from a year ago: we added a Yoderbilt greenhouse to Oglesby Gardens! Twelve months later, I’m still pinching myself when I look out at it. This greenhouse has transformed not just our property but also how we live, grow, and share experiences. It’s more than just a place to start seedlings; it’s become the heart of our garden-to-table lifestyle and a hub for creativity, community, and connection.
Why Yoderbilt?
When we decided to add a greenhouse, I knew I wanted a space that combined beauty + functionality. After extensive research, Yoderbilt greenhouses stood out for three main reasons:
Aesthetics – I wanted a greenhouse that seamlessly fit the existing design of our home and gardens. The Yoderbilt greenhouse is stunning, with clean lines and timeless charm, making it a true centerpiece. I wanted a greenhouse that aesthetically fit with our existing garden and home details, while still providing enough space and efficiency that I can reach my garden goals.
Size – Yoderbilt offers a variety of sizes. We chose the 32’x12’ greenhouse, large enough for me to start all the plants for my client gardens, yet perfectly proportioned for our one-acre property.
Customizable Features – I added a few upgrades to my greenhouse because I knew I wanted it customized for my exact needs. I went with double windows to increase airflow for plants, but also because I host events and gatherings inside the greenhouse and I want enough ventilation that my guests don’t get too toasty! We added a door at the back for easy access to the pergola and double doors at the front to create a welcoming entrance.
From Greenhouse to Gathering Space
While its primary role is to supply our organic kitchen gardens with plants, our Yoderbilt greenhouse is also a versatile space for celebrating and gathering. Last year, we hosted several workshops inside, including fall wreath making, mushroom growing, and a juicing class.
And the holidays are a special time for gatherings in the greenhouse. Last December I hosted my family’s Christmas dinner in the greenhouse. We gathered together around a single, elegant table filled with garden-to-table dishes, surrounded by twinkling lights and the crisp magic of winter. It was unforgettable and reinforced the idea that this space is more than practical—it’s also deeply personal.
Design Meets Functionality
Once the holiday season wrapped, we added rubber mat flooring to insulate the space for winter. The black mats kept it cozy, and when spring arrived, they were easy to remove, letting us transition effortlessly back into planting mode.
This spring marked my first full growing season with the greenhouse, and I’m thrilled to share that 95% of the seedlings in my garden (and many client gardens) were started here. Knowing that my greenhouse-grown plants now thrive across my community fills me with pride
Of course, with it being my first growing season, there were some hiccups. But you know me – I treat every failure like a lesson, and I’m definitely going to tweak my timing on a couple of crops this year.
New Additions to Our Yoderbilt Greenhouse
As we continue to improve, we’ve added features that elevate both the function and style of the greenhouse:
A concrete slab and hand-built barnwood pergola off the backdoor. This area functions as a hardening-off station in the spring and then transitions into a shaded dining + gathering space during the summer, the true definition of garden-to-table living.
Raised beds bordering the pergola, filled with fragrant herbs and vibrant flowers. These not only maximize planting space but also create a sensory experience for guests.
Espalier fruit trees that act as living walls along the pergola, blending function with artful design.
A welcoming patio off the front door, crafted from reclaimed brick that matches our home and flanked by Corten steel planters filled with edibles and blooms.
These updates highlight the versatility of a Yoderbilt greenhouse—it’s more than just a gardening tool, it’s an extension of our home and lifestyle.
What’s Next for Oglesby Gardens
This past year has been a whirlwind of growth, and I’m excited to see how the greenhouse continues to inspire new projects. Whether hosting another garden-to-table event or starting seedlings for next season, this space has truly elevated how we connect with nature, food, and each other.
If you’re dreaming of transforming your garden into a functional yet beautiful space, I’d love to help. From raised beds to edible landscapes and everything in between, let’s design a garden that works for you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If this post sparked your imagination, visit my garden design page to learn more about how we can bring your vision to life. And if you’re considering a Yoderbilt greenhouse, let me tell you—it’s worth every penny. Feel free to reach out with questions about my experience or share your own greenhouse dreams.
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