In April, the serre became a nursery. The temperature inside the Tuinmaximaal structure was a distinct microclimate. While the outside air was still crisp, inside, the sun’s rays were trapped by the glass, warming the soil in the raised beds Lucas had built along the perimeter. Tomato seedlings, previously spindly and weak on the kitchen windowsill, shot up toward the roof vents.
| Benefit | Explanation | |---------|-------------| | | 3–5x more than open field, due to controlled conditions. | | Pest & disease reduction | Physical barrier and drier foliage. | | Less water waste | Enclosed system reduces evaporation. | | Weather independence | No crop loss due to hail, heavy rain, or late frost. | | Extended fresh produce | Homegrown vegetables 8–10 months/year (instead of 4–5). | tuinmaximaal serre
That was when he found the brochure for . In April, the serre became a nursery