Nurseries and greenhouses in Florida serve distinct purposes in plant cultivation. Nurseries focus on growing a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals, nurturing them for eventual planting in gardens and landscapes. They are typically outdoor spaces with natural conditions. Greenhouses, however, are enclosed structures with regulated environments, ideal for year-round cultivation of delicate and out-of-season plants like orchids, tropical plants, and seedlings. These structures allow sunlight to penetrate while maintaining temperature and humidity, supporting plants that require specific conditions. Each serves vital roles in supporting diverse gardening and landscaping needs.

Purpose & Function of Nurseries vs. Greenhouses

Plant offerings at a nursery in Orlando, FL.

Nurseries and greenhouses both play integral roles in supporting plant growth, yet they serve distinct purposes. Nurseries focus on a broad scope of plant cultivation, nurturing a diverse array of plants, such as trees, shrubs, perennials, and sometimes vegetables. They are pivotal in the life cycle of plants, providing the initial conditions for growth until the plants are robust enough to be transplanted into gardens, landscapes, or other environments. This broad approach means nurseries often deal with varying plant needs, from soil types to sunlight exposure, ensuring each plant leaves healthy and ready for its new home.

In contrast, greenhouses are specifically built environments designed to allow for the year-round cultivation of plants, regardless of the external climate. They are perfectly suited for growing plants that require protection from weather extremes, such as frost or intense heat. The controlled environment within a greenhouse enables the growth of plants that might be challenging to cultivate outdoors due to climate constraints. This makes greenhouses ideal for propagating seedlings, accelerating growth rates, and successfully cultivating out-of-season or exotic plants that demand specific temperature and humidity levels.

How do nurseries and greenhouses differ in structure?

The structural differences between nurseries and greenhouses are significant. Nurseries are typically outdoor spaces and can range from small family-run operations to large commercial enterprises. They include open fields or spaces where plants are grown in containers or directly in the ground. Nurseries may have some sheltered areas, such as shade houses or hoop houses, to protect specific plants, but they largely rely on natural conditions.

Greenhouses are enclosed structures made predominantly of transparent materials, such as glass or polycarbonate. The design allows sunlight to penetrate while trapping heat, creating a warm environment that can be regulated. This controlled environment helps maintain consistent temperatures and humidity levels, crucial for growing delicate or exotic plants.

Nurseries typically include open fields or spaces where plants are grown in containers or directly in the ground.

Types of Plants Grown at Nurseries vs. Greenhouses

The types of plants grown in nurseries and greenhouses can also vary significantly. Nurseries typically cultivate a wide range of plants, including:

  • Trees & Shrubs: Essential for landscaping, trees and shrubs are often started from seed or cuttings in nurseries.
  • Perennials: Nurseries offer a variety of flowering and foliage plants for gardens and landscapes.
  • Mulch & Rock Ground Covers: Useful for filling in spaces and adding layers to landscape designs.

Greenhouses, by contrast, specialize in growing plants that need specific conditions, such as:

  • Orchids & Tropical Plants: Many delicate and tropical species thrive in greenhouse conditions.
  • Vegetables & Herbs: Out-of-season or exotic varieties can be grown year-round in greenhouses.
  • Seedlings & Propagations: Greenhouses provide an ideal environment for starting seeds and cuttings.

Stop by our nursery to browse our plant offerings or call us to learn more!

At Royal Landscape Nursery, we run a landscape nursery that offers a variety of landscaping materials and supplies that can help you achieve the goals you have for your property. Our nursery is open to the public and serves commercial and residential properties in and around Orlando, Winter Garden, and Windermere, FL. We are located in Gotha, and you can stop by to browse through our top-quality plants and supplies. You can also call us at (407) 296-3042 to learn more about our offerings!