FAQ and Support

Growing Dome Greenhouse FAQ

Find answers to common questions about Growing Dome geodesic greenhouse kits, including sizing, installation, permits, winter greenhouse heating, and four-season growing in Canada.

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Frequently asked questions

General

What are Growing Domes?

Growing Domes® are a proprietary geodesic greenhouse product owned by our American partner Growing Spaces Inc. in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. They are masterfully engineered dome structures that are designed to be the best greenhouses available. They come equipped with features and capabilities mentioned on the Growing Dome webpage and catalogue, and are highly customizable for both professional and recreational use.

What are Growing Domes used for?

Aside from their good looks, Growing Domes are advanced pieces of technology designed to create a secure, comfortable, sustainable, self-regulating environment inside (while keeping out anything from gale-force winds and mounds of snow to unwanted pests and harmful UV rays). These domes are perfect for horticulture, gardening, and more.

How much does a Growing Dome cost?
Pricing is available in our catalogue, configurator page, and across our website for each dome greenhouse cost, size, and kit components. Kit prices are set; shipping varies by province or territory, and installation costs vary by site. For a personalized number, request a quote.
Where are Growing Domes manufactured?

Every Arctic Acres Growing Dome is made to order in Portland Ontario, delivered locally, and shipped nationwide across Canada.

Will a Growing Dome work for my situation?

Growing Domes are adaptable structures that can be customized to fit your specific needs and wants. We recommend exploring our website and social media, reaching out to a member of the Growing Dome community, or speak to our team directly. If it can be done in a dome, we’ll let you know!

Do I need a building permit?

If you live in a subdivision or controlled development, chances are you will need to get approval from your Homeowners Association or municipality to install a Growing Dome. We can provide engineering plans and written instructions/diagrams. Site plans, submission of the permit application, and any additional engineering fees are the responsibility of the purchaser or landowner. Our team is available to assist should you have any questions or hurdles with your permit application.

How can I see one?
For privacy we don't share client contacts without authorization, but some owners in your area offer tours; we'll gladly let you know, or subscribe to our newsletter. There is also an active Facebook community posting photos, videos and testimonials where you can ask about tours.
How long will the dome last?
There are Growing Domes in use today that are over 20 years old. We use high-quality materials, and Arctic Acres domes come with a 5-year warranty on structural framing and a 10-year warranty on the paneling. Replacement parts are available for all components.
Is this the same product as Growing Spaces? Any differences?
Arctic Acres domes are adapted for Canada. Minor differences: we use intake and attic fans (regulated by thermometer) instead of automated vents, heavier-gauge steel for the horizontal trim, and a 45 mm outdoor-rated pond liner; the tape-adhesive roller is not included (inexpensive locally). Some Growing Spaces add-ons are not currently offered.

Growing & gardening

How do Growing Domes stay warm during the Winter?

The greenhouse is equipped with a sophisticated self-regulated heating system that harnesses the sun's natural warmth. Specially designed insulated panels focus sunlight onto a central water tank, creating optimal growing conditions. An insulated north-facing wall traps warm air, while an insulated foundation ring prevents frost and maintains a stable ground temperature inside the dome.

In addition, every Growing Dome Greenhouse includes a standard aeration system beneath the soil of the raised garden beds. This innovative system leverages the consistent temperature of the soil, tapping into its thermal mass to store and release energy. Additional geothermal systems can be added for an enhanced effect. Solar-powered fans circulate air within the greenhouse, contributing to a well-balanced environment.

With optimal sun exposure, the combined effect of these features enables the dome to maintain a temperature approximately 20-25ºC warmer than the outside conditions. For very cold winter temperatures, some owners choose to supplement with additional heating options such as electric heaters, propane units, or wood-fired stoves. Others have found success with Ground to Air Heat Transfer (GAHT) systems as part of their foundation for an extra source of heat.

Does the dome get too hot in summer?
A typical greenhouse traps heat; a Growing Dome regulates it. Automatic fans and the dome's design give you control over the environment, creating ideal conditions for most plants. Some monitoring and adjustment may be needed for specific crops.
What are the benefits of a dome shape?
Beyond the many innovations built into Growing Domes, the geodesic dome shape is more durable, longer-lasting and, in our opinion, far better looking than conventional greenhouse designs.
How much food will it produce?
On average, with basic gardening skills, a Growing Dome produces about 2.5 pounds of fresh food per square foot per year, offsetting the value of organic produce against the cost of the dome.
How big is the water tank?
The tank is sized for the thermal mass each dome needs. Approximate volumes: 15ft around 600 gal; 18ft around 700 gal; 22ft around 1,000 gal; 26ft around 1,200 gal; 33ft around 2,300 gal; 42ft around 3,200 gal.
Do I need the water tank?
Each kit includes an above-ground pond that creates ideal growing conditions and powers the dome's self-regulating features. We recommend installing it by the north wall for traditional gardening, but you can adapt your dome however you like.
What if I'm new to greenhouse gardening?
Whether you're new to greenhouse gardening or gardening in general, a Growing Dome helps create the ideal environment to save you time, money and effort. We can't guarantee results, but we do everything we can to give you a product that helps.
How do I deal with bugs and pests?
Domes are inviting spaces, even to pests. For the unwanted ones we recommend avoiding harmful chemicals: keep the dome clean, doors and windows secure, and use Organic Pest Management to control most unwanted guests.
How do I handle mold and mildew?
Mold and mildew are fungi that thrive in warm, humid conditions. Knowing their optimal growth conditions lets you prevent harmful fungi by maintaining a greenhouse environment that doesn't favour them.

Ordering & purchasing

How do I get started?
Fill out the quote form to price your dome size and any upgrades, and our sales team will help you place an order. Following us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn keeps you up to date on products.
How does payment work?
We accept cheque, e-transfer, direct deposit, wire transfer and credit card.
How long does delivery take?
Current production lead time is about 2 to 3 weeks. Orders are first-come, first-served, so securing yours earlier gives more flexibility on delivery. We require a 50% deposit before production and the balance before shipping.
How is the dome shipped?
We pack your entire dome onto pallets and ship almost anywhere in Canada, with every component and instruction included and protected. We work with a range of carriers for secure, cost-efficient delivery.
Where do I enter a promo or referral code?
If a partner referred you, enter your promo code on the quote form, or give the referring organization's name to our sales team before purchasing.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Financing is available for up to $40,000 CAD through Financeit; ask our team to start the application.

Installing your dome

How do I know if it will fit in my backyard?
We offer six sizes, from a 15-foot to a 42-foot diameter. To gauge the space, put a peg at the centre, tie a string the length of the radius (half the diameter) and draw the circle. Add about 1 foot around the perimeter to work; a 15ft dome needs about 17 ft of clear diameter for a smooth install.
What should I know about choosing a site?
For gardening, the site needs at least 4 to 5 hours of clear sun for the dome to perform well. With less, it still performs but may need auxiliary heat in winter. Trees to the west can help in summer.
How does assembly and installation work?

Most owners will either construct the dome themselves with friends and family or hire a local builder. The kit is designed with self-install in mind and the online portal contains all of the information needed to assemble the dome, including written instructions, video walkthroughs, diagrams, etc.

We do have some certified contractors that we work with who have experience installing Growing Domes, however, their availability is much more limited and they usually reserve their projects for the larger sizes or community projects. We'd be happy to connect you with them if you're interested in pricing.

Do I need to purchase any additional items?
Kits include all materials to construct your dome except the Owner Supplied Items. We recommend proper tools and techniques for the foundation and safety precautions during assembly. Some bulky, costly-to-ship items (often available at local building or HVAC suppliers) are left out to lower the kit cost; our team provides the foundation instructions and materials list.