Prepare Your Greenhouse for Fall and Winter
As summer gradually winds down and fall sets in, it's time to gear up and think about preparing your greenhouse for the colder months. With a well-prepared greenhouse, your plants can keep thriving even when the temperatures dip. Here are a few key steps to help you get your greenhouse ready for fall and winter:
Seal Windows and Doors: Check all the openings in your greenhouse for drafts or leaks, and seal any gaps with weatherstripping (we’ve gotten them from Amazon for a good price!). This keeps cold air from sneaking in and messing up your plants' cozy environment. If you want to add some style and practicality, Dutch windows and Dutch doors are great upgrades. They offer ventilation while keeping things warm inside.
Insulate with Polycarbonate Panels: For top-notch heat retention, consider polycarbonate panels. They're lightweight and durable, with an excellent R-Value, meaning they’ll help keep things toasty inside. You can find out more about the benefits of polycarbonate insulation right here.
Ventilation Matters: While keeping your greenhouse warm, don’t forget to allow for good airflow. Proper ventilation is crucial to avoid mold and mildew buildup, even as you insulate and heat your space. Aforementioned Dutch Doors and Dutch Windows can help with that. Opening them for a few hours during the day should help!
Growing Cool-Season Vegetables
Fall is a perfect time to plant cool-season veggies in your greenhouse. These hardy plants love lower temperatures and can handle the cooler fall nights, making autumn gardening a real treat.
Spinach: A cool-weather favorite, spinach thrives in temperatures between 50-60°F (10-16°C). It's a quick grower, providing you with a steady supply of fresh greens. Just sow the seeds directly into the soil and keep things moist for the best results.
Kale: Known for being tough, kale can survive even after light frosts. In fact, a little frost makes it even sweeter! Plant it in well-drained soil, and enjoy its nutrient-packed leaves all through fall.
Lettuce: Fast-growing and perfect for fall, lettuce varieties like butterhead and romaine are ideal for cooler weather. With the right care, you’ll have fresh salads well into late fall.
Herbs for Your Greenhouse this Fall
Herbs are another fantastic choice for fall gardening. Many of them can handle cooler temps and will thrive in your greenhouse during the autumn months.
Cilantro: Cilantro loves cooler temperatures and doesn’t do well in heat, making it perfect for fall. Plant it in well-drained soil, and keep it watered regularly, but don’t let the roots get soggy.
Parsley: Another cool-season herb, parsley thrives in lower temperatures. You can harvest it continuously throughout the fall to add a fresh burst of flavor to your meals.
Chives: Hardy and low-maintenance, chives grow well in cooler climates and provide a steady supply of fresh greens. They don’t need much attention—just plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil.
Conclusion: Embrace the Beauty of Fall Gardening
Fall is such a lovely season for greenhouse gardening! With a little preparation, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of cool-season veggies and fresh herbs, even as temperatures drop. From the crisp leaves of kale to the fragrant sprigs of cilantro, there’s so much to grow and savor during this time of year.
So, roll up your sleeves, cozy up your greenhouse, and get ready for a vibrant fall garden! Happy gardening, and may your greenhouse be as warm and welcoming as your favorite autumn sweater.
