This post shows you greenhouse gardening tips to help you grow year-round!
Are you eager to start a garden indoors but not sure where to start?
Look no further than a greenhouse!
These small structures are a perfect solution if you’re passionate about plants or are trying to extend the growing season where you live.
With the introduction of lightweight and modern materials, there are a variety of greenhouses and plenty of options to fit pretty much any budget!
What is a Greenhouse?
A greenhouse is an enclosed glass frame or plastic structure that provides a place for plants to grow under optimal conditions.
While grow lights and temperature gauges clicking may seem intimidating to a novice grower, you’ll see that you can learn pretty quickly through trial and error.
Greenhouses offer the perfect alternative for growing a variety of plants, extending the growing season through the winter, or just providing shelter from extreme weather conditions.
The types of greenhouses vary greatly but their functions all remain the same!
Greenhouse Gardening Tips
Here are a few factors to consider to prevent your plants from becoming shocked by their environments:
Consider temperature. Be mindful of the plants that you’re growing. Some plants have their roots in the tropics and require subtropical conditions while others thrive in the desert or cool and moist woodlands. The temperature is never uniform so close observation of different areas of the greenhouse will be key.
Pick your location. The hype around greenhouses stems from the fact that you can defy nature and grow through the winter but with limited sun and shorter days, strategic positioning will be key. The ideal direction is south, southeast, southwest, and then west. You can also supplement with grow lights!
Construction. Even-span and lean-to greenhouses will be your more expensive options, tailored for attachments to a house or window. If this is in your budget, definitely go for it! But for the more budget-conscious gardener, plastic freestanding structures are a great portable option at a lower price with simple assembly.
Here are some simple, yet effective greenhouse gardening tips to get started!
1. Start Small, Think Big
As a beginner, start with a modest-sized greenhouse that fits your space and budget.
Don’t fall prey to social media influencers and feel pressured to invest in a large or tech-savvy structure right away.
Start small and expand your garden gradually as you become more confident with time and experience.
2. Choose the Right Location
Be sure to place your greenhouse in an area that receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
Position it away from large trees or buildings that could cast shadows and obstruct sunlight.
Maximizing natural light will reduce the need for artificial lighting, saving you money on energy bills.
3. Consider a DIY Greenhouse
Source cost-effective materials like PVC pipes, plastic sheeting, or reclaimed windows to build a DIY greenhouse.
Search for budget-friendly greenhouse plans like a window greenhouse, plant walls, or sun domes and skylights.
Research simple DIY ideas on platforms like Pinterest, allowing you to create a custom structure that meets your gardening needs without breaking the bank!
4. Optimize Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial for regulating temperature and humidity levels inside the greenhouse.
Install vents or operate a small fan to allow fresh air to circulate freely, preventing heat buildup during hot summer days and minimizing the risk of fungal diseases.
5. Be smart with materials
Use shelves made from clear acrylic plastic, glass, or wire mesh.
This way plants can grow in the middle of the window as well as around the sides.
Increase the amount of sunlight by placing reflective material that will toss light back onto plants such as movable mirrors that adjust to the sun’s movement across the sky.
6. Pick the Right Containers
Choose containers that are appropriate for the size of your plants and provide adequate drainage.
Options include pots, hanging baskets, or grow bags, depending on your preference and available space.
Construct planter boxes for starting seeds of vegetables and annual flowers.
7. Monitor Humidity Levels
Greenhouses can quickly become humid environments, which may promote fungal growth.
Keep humidity levels in check by providing proper ventilation and using a dehumidifier if necessary.
Place indicators wherever you think plants will grow and take note of the conditions.
8. Control the Temperature
Keep the temperature at optimal levels for your plants by installing a shade cloth during hotter and more extreme temperatures or using a heating pad during colder months.
A thermometer will help you monitor temperature fluctuations.
9. Embrace vertical gardening
Maximize space within your greenhouse by utilizing vertical gardening techniques such as hanging baskets, or stacking shelves.
Stake tall or vining plants to prevent them from toppling over and to promote upward growth.
Insert bamboo stakes, tomato cages, or trellises for added support.
10. Be mindful of pests and diseases
Keep a close eye on your plants for signs of pests or diseases, such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or unusual spots.
Be sure to quickly address any issues with organic pest control methods or fungicides.
Neem or peppermint oil is a favorite!
11. Water wisely
Avoid overwatering your plants by allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Use a watering can or hose with a nozzle attachment to deliver water directly to the base of the plants.
Water your plants from the roots at the bottom to avoid the risk of fungal or mildew from wet leaves.
12. Maintain Cleanliness
Keep your greenhouse tidy by regularly removing debris, fallen leaves, and dead plants.
Clean containers and tools with a mild bleach solution to prevent the spread of diseases.
Keep your plants tidy and promote healthy growth by regularly pruning dead or damaged foliage. Pruning also encourages airflow and prevents overcrowding.
13. Compost for Free Fertilizer
Harness the power of nature to nourish your plants without spending a dime on store-bought fertilizers. Start a compost bin in your backyard using kitchen scraps, yard waste, and shredded paper.
A natural option is to apply a layer of compost to the surface of your containers to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
14. Stay Organized
Keep track of planting schedules, watering routines, and other important tasks using a gardening journal or calendar.
This will help you stay organized and maximize your greenhouse’s productivity.
Your future self will thank you!
15. Embrace Trial and Error
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes.
Gardening is a journey of discovery, and every setback is an opportunity to grow and improve your skills!
Final Thoughts
This post has shown you simple greenhouse gardening tips to get you started. Remember to be patient, stay attentive to your plant’s needs, and most importantly, enjoy the process of nurturing life from seed to harvest. Happy gardening!
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