Both of those are lovely choices. I think the Cross Country greenhouses are especially pretty and if that is a big priority that would definitely be a factor. From the functional standpoint I think they are similar. The Cross Country twinwall is a little thinner than the Riga (but I think you knew that already). I think that overall the Riga is a little more geared for the gardener with the clever shelving system and the nice thick polycarbonate. I am a Riga owner and I completely love mine but I could imagine wanting the look of the Cross Country if we had a fancy house. To answer your question, the Riga does not feel too low inside. I can't recall the height, but it's plenty tall enough for vines to grow up to the ceiling and be nearly out of reach. You do not need a base of 6 x 6s for the Riga. All you need is the base kit that is available from Riga. I definitely would not build it without the Riga base kit. Happy shopping! It is very fun to be in the planning stages and to dream of all the possibilities...

I suspect that all but the high-end GHs have some issues. We bought a Rion because it was the largest for the bucks. After some "after work" I'm pretty happy with it.

I am in Zone 5. I have been looking at the Rion. It seems to be a quality green house with nice features. I am not looking to use the greenhouse year round. Basically from mid-February into the early summer. I will be heating it with a direct vent propane heater. Is there any concerns with the polycarbonate and warpage due to the heater getting quite warm when running? If so, will any foil insulation help protect against that? I have been calculating BTU's at a minimun of 18000 and looking at 25000 BTU heater. The greenhouse that I have been looking at is the Rion professional 8.5 X 16.8. I hate to rush this but rion greenhouses are 25% off until the end of this month......plus they are increasing the prices in January 2009......so I would like to make a desicion very soon to take advantage of a substantial discount. More info.....please!

Welcome to Norman, Anthrogirl78! I live rural (north & east out by Thunderbird). From my experience, Home Depot here is a waist of time, but the HD in Moore is nice, has healthy plants and several times I've found what I was looking for when no-one else has it. The Lowes in Norman is also a good source as is the Lowes in Moore. The people in the Garden Center in Moore tend to be a bit more knowledgable. I have also used K&K out on Sooner Road for items that I couldn't find anywhere else. I found my white clemantis there this spring and right now, it is LOADED with beautiful blooms! They've also been a great source of garden seeds, vegetable plants and perenials. There are several ladies that work there that are very helpful. (There's an older man too...he might be the owner....and it seems you've just got to catch him on a good day, IMO). There's another nursery that carries a lot of unusual plants @ 24th Ave SW & Highway 9. Sorry, I can't remember or find the name of it. It's a bit pricey, but then, unusual items always cost more. Good luck and let us know what do!!! Paula