by L G
Pre-Build Questions
12:29 pm in Getting Started, questions, Seeking Advice by L G
So I’m looking to build my first windowfarm, but I want to make sure that I’ve considered all possible sticking points before moving forward. I’ve added a picture of my window below (albeit a very poor quality one). My main concerns are as follows.
1) Suspension versus free-standing: As I’m renting, serious modifications (i.e., drilling, suspension, etc.) into the walls or window frames is not a great idea. How much weight would the average windowfarm weigh? I’m trying to figure out if the suspended system is still feasible or if I should build free-standing pillars that can be set on a table in front of the window.
2) Temperature control – I live in Northeast Ohio, so it can get pretty chilly, but I do get a good amount of light in the apartment as it faces south and I’m on a higher floor. I’m thinking of using the plastic window wrap to try to ward off the cold in the winter, but I’m not sure how much good it will do.
Main window, approx. 4' tall x 5' wide, faces south
I don’t have an answer to your second question but as for the first and how much it weighs, the weight is mostly in the water in the reservoir. Whatever planting material you use (clay pellets, rock wool, etc), most of it is pretty light weight. You may want to consider having your reservoir sitting on the floor or a table rather than hanging as part of your system. Then, you don’t have to worry as much about hanging all of that water.
Build a quick frame out of 2×4 (or even 2×2) lumber and suspend your windowfarms from that. Stronger and more versatile than hanging from the window frame, and you don’t need to damage your landlord’s building. I actually own my condo but I still use steel racks in front of the window rather than attaching to the wall or window frame. I got the racks from a warehouse I used to work at; they were just throwing them away because they didn’t match up perfectly with the rest of their racks.