Building A Greenhouse In A Pool: September 2020

So, we’ve had a recurring problem in our defunct swimming pool. Each Spring, we inadvertently catch raccoons, who enter to catch frogs or to wash their hands, and then they become unable to get out of the pool. I suppose that’s the nicest way to put it. So, we installed a ladder for them, and it worked for a bit before falling into the shadowy bottom. The problem persisted, and it was clear that something had to be done about the pool. 

We considered renovating it to be swimmable once again, but we ultimately decided that we wouldn’t use it/guests wouldn’t use it enough to justify the costs of upkeep and insurance. 

So, we continued to think and dream about it. Finally, this year – amid the pandemic and the social and environmental strife of 2020, we committed ourselves to converting the pool into a greenhouse! Building greenhouses inside of pools is a real thing because it takes advantage of the insulation of the earth that will help to maintain even temperatures throughout the year. 

Pat has been researching, designing, and planning for months. This past Saturday, some of the materials arrived – including 500+ lbs. of 20’and 25’ boards, which Abe and I carried to the barn through the rain, while I pounded my chest crying “Fortitude!” It took us three hours to complete the task, but we did it! 

Now, the true hard part begins – building a greenhouse in a defunct pool. Step one is to remove the stuff that we don’t want – like pipes, decking, water, and happy frog families. Oh, and add one opossum mom and baby. They received their eviction notice last night. They haven’t returned. So, I hope they found another place to live. That makes the second time we’ve had to kick a opossum out of their home!

Anyway, hooray for new beginnings – especially daunting ones!