M A N N ' S G R E E N H O U S E

Retractable roof lends versatility

Mann's Greenhouse constructed a Cravo 40,000-square-foot flat-roof retractable shade structure in 1994. Originally, it was erected to shade fall pansies from late-summer heat. However, the structure has proven to have many more benefits.

The house protects bedding plants from late frosts and is also used for production of shade-loving annuals such as impatiens.

"It's been much more versatile than we thought it would be," Hotz said. "It's nice because you can leave it open, fully closed or partially open to shade just certain portions of the growing area."

. © 2001 Branch-Smith Publishing