Greenhouse Maintenance
Taking Care of Your Greenhouse
There are so many possibilities for fun and learning when you have access to a personal greenhouse. Although operating one requires time and commitment the rewards are great. There are however, unforeseen items that can arise during the year that may need your attention.
Temperatures
During the hot summer months overheating and burning can harm your plants very quickly, emphasizing the importance of proper ventilation and shading. Ensure that precautions are made to ventilate the greenhouse by opening windows and vents and using fans for cross ventilation. Installing shading is usually a requirement during the hot months as well. Consider installing a misting kit. These kits are inexpensive and can cool air temperatures by more than 20 degrees F. It is imperative that an exhaust fan system be used to provide your plants with air circulation so that plants are not susceptible to mold and mildew. Hosing down your greenhouse in hot months can also lower the inside air temperature.
On the other hand, heating the greenhouse during the winter months will likely be required depending on your region and the levels of freezing temperatures. Most plants can sustain low temperatures of 45 degrees F. A heat sink can be built or heating can be supplied. Any source of heat will work, electric, gas or propane. It is best to have a heater that is thermostatically controlled so that you do not waste energy and dollars. Regardless of which season you operate in, controlling the temperature is vital and the most important issue to be addressed no matter what the season.
Winter Tip: Line the inside of the greenhouse with styrofoam panels (the kind for insulating and not the “white” kind). You can place the styrofoam panels along the floor and bottom third of the greenhouse walls. Then wrap the walls with a 3mm clear plastic or bubble wrap. This adds an additional layer of insulation at a relatively low cost.
Condensation
Dampness and lack of air circulation during the hot months can produce condensation causing mildew, mold and other fungi which can greatly affect your growing season and your plants. It is necessary to make any repairs that might be causing condensation including the insulation in the greenhouse. Keep in mind that condensation is also a natural condition caused when temperatures fluctuate between the outside air and inside air of the greenhouse.
Storage Space
When choosing the style of greenhouse for your backyard, it is important to address storage space. A cluttered greenhouse creates a mess which ultimately affects the plants. Outgrowing the size of your greenhouse is a common problem with upgrades necessary most of the time. Organization of the equipment, soil beds, benches etc. is critical in order to keep the space efficient. Storage under benches is a good strategy. Shelving can also be used to house additional plants. Hanging baskets can also be used to utilize the roof space.
Cleanliness
A greenhouse should be completely cleaned and disinfected at least twice a year; in the spring before sowing seeds and in the fall before the outdoor garden plants are brought inside for the winter. A clean environment will keep away pests and diseases and offer fresh growing conditions for your plants. It is wise to hose down both the interior and exterior of the greenhouse.
Maintenance
Check your equipment regularly to ensure that the heating, ventilation and irrigation systems are working. There is nothing worse than equipment failure when you are at the height of the growing season. Check the glazing for cracks and leaks and the frame for strength and a sturdy foundation. Check your heating and exhaust fan equipment to make sure they are operational. Caulking can be used should you find any air drafts.
Pests
Sooner or later, pests will show up. Constantly be on the watch for pests that invade the greenhouse and take care of the problem immediately. You may need to discard any infested plants to avoid a spreading problem. Greenhouse sticky tape can be hung to catch white flies. Insecticides can also be used on plants and in the greenhouse. There are also several recipes on the internet for natural insecticides that you can make at home.
Greenhouse growing is a very rewarding experience!
About the Author
Shelley Awad Greenhouse Consultant, Shelley Awad, provides everything you need to know about greenhouses. Whether you are buying a greenhouse or you already own one, you’ll learn tips and tricks on greenhouses and how to grow year-round. Questions always welcome.
