The Columbus Greenhouses include the Howlett and Kottman facilities, along with High Tunnels at the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center. These spaces support diverse research in plant science, agriculture, and natural resources. With a range of structures and growing environments, they provide essential resources for hands-on learning and innovative research.
Howlett Greenhouse
Built in 1969 on the west campus for research in Horticulture and Forestry, the Howlett Greenhouse underwent significant renovations in 1995. Today, the facility spans 16,819 square feet and includes 16 individual compartments, each measuring 1,050 square feet. The greenhouse is divided between two construction types: eight compartments feature glass sidewalls and roofs, while the remaining eight utilize polycarbonate materials for both walls and roofs. This dual structure supports a diverse range of plant research and environmental control needs. Additional features include two plant drying ovens and a fully equipped workshop with cutting tools and other resources to support hands-on work and experimentation for students and faculty. Interested or want to learn more? Reach out to Jackie Rothgery.7@osu.edu.
Kottman Greenhouse
The Kottman Greenhouse was constructed in 1981 alongside Kottman Hall, which has been a part of the campus since 1948. Encompassing 6,806 square feet, the facility supports research in Agronomy, Natural Resources, and Plant Pathology. The greenhouse contains 10 compartments, each constructed with glass sidewalls and roofs, ranging in size from 600 to 900 square feet. It is also equipped with seven Conviron growth chambers, allowing for environmental control and expanded research capabilities. Kottman Greenhouse remains an active facility for plant science research and student learning at The Ohio State University. Have questions or want to know more? Just reach out to Isaac Knowles.84@osu.edu.
High Tunnels
Located at the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center, the high tunnel facility consists of four structures designed to support crop research. Two of the tunnels, each 2,000 square feet, were built in 2022 and feature manual roll-up sides for ventilation, as well as unit heaters for overwintering. The other two tunnels measure 1,000 square feet each and are unheated and unventilated. These high tunnels provide valuable opportunities for exploring improved crop performance and sustainable research strategies. For further information reach out to Mike Anderson.88@osu.edu.
