Bootstrap Farmer is a leading provider of high-quality, affordable DIY greenhouse equipment and custom greenhouse solutions. Based out of Bellingham, Washington, they specialize in helping both home gardeners and commercial growers set up efficient and productive greenhouse operations.
DIY Greenhouse Supplies
Bootstrap Farmer offers a wide range of components and accessories for building your own greenhouse or high tunnel. Their selection includes:
Framing and Structure
Bootstrap Farmer provides all the key structural components needed to build a sturdy, long-lasting greenhouse frame:
Greenhouse Bows and Rib Sections
These are made from high-quality, galvanized steel tubing that is built to withstand harsh weather conditions and resist corrosion over time. The bows come in various lengths from 12 feet up to 30 feet to accommodate different greenhouse widths. They use a triple-galvanized finish for maximum durability.1 The rib sections easily connect to the bows using clamps and pre-punched holes to create the arched shape of the greenhouse frame.
Ground Posts and Drivers
For securely anchoring the greenhouse frame, Bootstrap Farmer offers heavy-duty ground posts made from thick-walled galvanized steel pipe. The posts come pre-drilled with holes that align perfectly with the greenhouse bows for easy assembly. They are available in various lengths from 2 feet to 6 feet to accommodate different soil conditions. Ground post drivers are also available – these heavy-duty steel tools allow you to easily pound the posts into even the toughest ground with just a sledgehammer.
Framing Components
In addition to the arched bows, Bootstrap Farmer provides all the necessary components to fully frame out your greenhouse:
- Galvanized steel baseboards to create a sturdy foundation
- Purlins and ridgepurlin pieces for the roof framing
- Gable framing kits for end walls
- Crossmember supports and trusses
Coverings
To fully enclose your greenhouse frame, Bootstrap Farmer carries UV-treated polyethylene greenhouse films and coverings from trusted brands like Dura-Film and Drisol. The woven polyethylene is tear-resistant, light diffusing, and designed to withstand years of exposure to sunlight and extreme temperatures. It comes in various thicknesses from 4mil up to 12mil.
Environmental Controls
For maintaining optimal growing conditions inside your greenhouse, Bootstrap Farmer offers:
- Exhaust shutters and shutter fans for ventilation and air circulation
- Shade cloths, shade systems, and greenhouse shades to control light levels
- Heaters and heating equipment to maintain temperatures in cold weather
- Misting and irrigation system components for watering and humidity control
- Hydroponic grow setups including flood trays, Dutch buckets, and nutrient delivery systems
Growing Supplies
In addition to the greenhouse structure itself, Bootstrap Farmer provides a range of growing supplies and accessories:
- Their signature 1020 propagation trays made from durable plastic – ideal for seedlings, microgreens, and wheatgrass
- A variety of pots, containers, and grow bags in different sizes
- Grow lights, shelving units, and greenhouse benches for optimal plant spacing
- Tools, soil amendments, and other gardening supplies
With their wide selection of high-quality framing, coverings, environmental controls, and growing accessories, Bootstrap Farmer is truly a one-stop shop for all your DIY greenhouse needs. Their products are designed for ease of assembly while providing the durability and functionality required for successful greenhouse growing operations.
Custom Greenhouse Solutions
In addition to DIY supplies, Bootstrap Farmer also designs and builds custom greenhouse structures tailored to specific needs and site requirements. Their team of experts can help with:
Greenhouse Planning and Design
Bootstrap Farmer’s team of greenhouse experts will work closely with you to plan and design a custom greenhouse tailored to your specific needs and goals. This collaborative process includes:
- Assessing your growing objectives – whether for hobby, commercial production, research, etc.
- Evaluating your climate, sun exposure, wind patterns, and other site conditions
- Determining the ideal greenhouse size, layout, and orientation
- Selecting the optimal glazing materials, ventilation systems, and environmental controls
- Designing efficient workspace layouts, benching systems, and irrigation setups
- Creating 3D renderings and blueprints for your custom greenhouse design
Their extensive experience allows them to design greenhouses purpose-built for your crops, climate, and operational requirements.
Site Evaluation and Preparation
Proper site preparation is critical for ensuring your greenhouse functions optimally. Bootstrap Farmer’s services include:
- Conducting soil tests and analysis to identify any issues
- Grading and leveling the greenhouse site
- Installing drainage systems as needed
- Preparing the foundation, whether raised wood/concrete or in-ground posts
- Ensuring adequate utilities are available (water, electricity, etc.)
Their team has experience working on a variety of site conditions and terrains to get your greenhouse set up for success.
Full Installation Services
In addition to planning and prep, Bootstrap Farmer offers turnkey installation services for your custom greenhouse. Their professional installation crew will:
- Assemble the greenhouse frame and glazing on-site
- Install environmental control systems (heating, cooling, vents, etc.)
- Set up automated control panels and monitoring systems
- Construct benching, shelving, and interior workspace layouts
- Install irrigation lines, hydroponic troughs, and water storage tanks
- Provide final testing to ensure all systems are operational
This comprehensive installation service ensures your greenhouse is built to exact specifications.
Automated Control Systems
For commercial operations, Bootstrap Farmer can integrate state-of-the-art automated control and monitoring systems, including:
- Climate computers to regulate temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, etc.
- Automated vent openers, shade systems, and evaporative cooling units
- Irrigation controllers and nutrient dosers for hydroponic setups
- Real-time monitoring and data logging capabilities
- Remote access and control via internet/smart devices
These automated systems provide precise environmental control while reducing labor requirements.
Greenhouse Training and Support
To ensure you get the most out of your new greenhouse, Bootstrap Farmer provides hands-on training covering:
- Greenhouse operations and maintenance best practices
- Environmental systems operation and troubleshooting
- Crop scheduling, integrated pest management, and more
- Data monitoring and making optimal control adjustments
Their team of experienced growers is available for ongoing technical support even after your greenhouse is up and running. Whether you need a small hobby greenhouse or a large-scale commercial production facility, Bootstrap Farmer has the expertise to design, build and support a custom greenhouse solution tailored to your unique needs. Their turnkey services and greenhouse knowledge ensure an optimized, high-performance controlled environment for your plants to thrive.
Expertise and Support
What sets Bootstrap Farmer apart is their deep expertise in greenhouse farming and growing. The company was founded by experienced growers who understand the challenges and needs of greenhouse operations.
They provide extensive educational resources, how-to guides, and one-on-one support to help customers get the most out of their greenhouse setups. From choosing the right components to optimizing growing conditions, Bootstrap Farmer is there every step of the way.
With their quality products, custom solutions, and hands-on expertise, Bootstrap Farmer is a trusted partner for gardeners, farmers, and greenhouse enthusiasts looking to maximize yields and streamline operations. Their commitment to customer service and sustainable growing practices has made them a leader in the greenhouse supply industry.