A Not So Small
Greenhouse Idea!

Bogan's Bonsai - Lynneville, Indiana

When I first met Dave Bogan, he was in the process of building a small greenhouse. Or, so I thought.

When I saw his collection, I was surprised at the number, size and quality of his tropical bonsai.

They would definitely require special protection during the winters in Indiana.

He had plenty of space in the yard to build, a definite consideration.

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Notice the snow melting from the warmth of this "pool house".

Dave told me: “The tropical bonsai trees seem to love it and thrive throughout the winter. The only downside was having to carry everything down the four steps into the greenhouse.”

I did wonder, since Dave has quite a few large trees. I asked him about those steps. Dave responded that he has made some changes.

“I installed a hoist system which runs on an overhead track.

Via this hoist system, I can lift a 2 x 4 platform cart, roll it in on the over head track and then lower it to the floor.

I designed this cart to be at 32” tall which is the same height as my benches in the greenhouse - as well as those outside in the display area."

"With the cart at the same height as the benches, it’s simply a task of sliding the bonsai off and onto the benches.

Over the years, I have continually updated the greenhouse.

A few years ago, I installed a new 95% efficiency gas furnace.

Facilities include: bin type area for soil removal, wash area for washing out root systems, over 16’ of center work bench area.

We also have an area for power carving, a new wire rack that holds 12’ full rolls of wire, and a tool cabinet."

One of Dave Bogan's Ficus bonsai.

Today Dave and Barbara Bogan have (in addition to their 'not so small greenhouse') an overall fabulous bonsai facility!

Where to Go From Here

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If you'd like to see some of the bonsai trees wintered in the pool greenhouse, see the Bogan's bonsai.

Or you can take a look at the small greenhouse page and see what others have created.

No room for a greenhouse? Another page that may be helpful is growing bonsai indoors.